Description
Building pathology is a multidisciplinary, investigative approach that enables surveyors to accurately diagnose, prevent, and manage building defects by understanding how materials, design, environment, and use interact over time.
Key Points
- Defects Are Complex and Multifactorial
Most building failures result from a combination of design flaws, material aging, environmental conditions, and inappropriate usage, requiring comprehensive and nuanced analysis rather than surface-level assessments. - Holistic, Iterative Investigations Are Essential
Accurate diagnosis often requires revisiting assumptions, performing invasive tests, and considering building history, intended use, and broader site conditions, much like a medical diagnostic process. - Up-to-Date Knowledge and Experience Are Crucial
Surveyors must continuously learn and adapt, as outdated knowledge and overreliance on common assumptions (e.g., rising damp) can lead to misdiagnosis, ineffective repairs, and increased client risk.
Learning Objectives
- Explain the principles of building pathology and how it differs from basic defect inspection.
- Apply a multifactorial diagnostic approach to investigate structural and material failures in buildings.
- Identify the importance of ongoing professional development and updated knowledge in diagnosing and mitigating building defects effectively.
