Frequently asked questions
Housing disrepair
What is a housing disrepair expert witness report?
A housing disrepair expert witness report is an independent, expert assessment of the condition of a property, usually for use in legal claims between tenants and landlords.
Who might need this service?
Tenants making a claim under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 or Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018
Landlords responding to disrepair allegations
Solicitors representing either party in housing disputes
What does the inspection cover?
We inspect and report on:
Damp and mould problems
Structural defects
Heating, plumbing, and ventilation issues
Safety hazards and building regulation concerns
Are your reports suitable for court?
Yes — our reports are written to meet Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) standards and can be submitted as evidence in court.
How quickly can you complete a report?
We can usually carry out the inspection within 5–10 working days of instruction and provide the report within a further 5-10 working days, subject to the urgency of the instruction.
How much does a housing disrepair inspection cost?
Fees depend on property size, complexity, location and whether court attendance is required. Contact us for a tailored quote.
Can you attend court as an expert witness?
Yes — we have regularly provided expert witness testimony in housing disrepair cases.
Frequently asked questions
DAMP AND MOUld
What is a damp and mould inspection?
A damp inspection identifies the cause and extent of moisture issues in a property, such as rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation problems. The aim is to provide accurate diagnosis and tailored recommendations for effective treatment.
Why is a damp inspection important?
If left untreated, damp can damage plaster, brickwork, and timber, encourage mould growth, and even affect your health. A professional inspection helps target repairs, avoid unnecessary costs, and protect property value.
What equipment do you use?
We use specialist tools including:
Moisture meters for precise readings
Thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden moisture
Hygrometers to assess air humidity
Borescopes for inspecting inside cavities
Drone for assessing high level defects
How long does it take?
A typical damp inspection takes 1–2 hours depending on property size and complexity. Reports are normally issued within 5 working days.
Can you comply with AWaabs law timescales?
Yes, we can. Please confirm if this is required and we will ensure the report is issued within the relevant number of days.
Will it be disruptive?
No. Our initial inspections are non-invasive — we don’t cause damage to walls or finishes unless a more in-depth investigation is agreed in advance. If agreed, we can take samples of wall finishes which can then be analysed with a gravimetric approach to provide further detail on any dampness affecting the wall.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary depending on the property size, location and requirements for the inspection. Contact us for a fixed price quote.
Can you undertake the works?
No, we are not a contractor. It is important for us to be separate from the works, in order to maintain an independent and impartial opinion on the defects affecting the property. We could manage or post-inspect the work on behalf of the client for an additional fee.