Common property problems. Explained clearly.

Asbestos fibres were used in many building products, including some cement sheets, roof coverings, boards, textured finishes and floor tiles. Where asbestos-containing material is suspected, it should not be disturbed before appropriate expert advice is obtained.

Cob is a traditional mixture that can include clay, lime, straw and small aggregate. It can be durable when protected from excessive moisture. Breathable lime-based finishes are generally important because impermeable cement-rich finishes can trap moisture.

Condensation commonly forms on colder surfaces when humid indoor air is not adequately ventilated. Persistent moisture can cause mould and may contribute to timber decay, particularly in poorly ventilated roof spaces.

Water is a major cause of building deterioration. Driving rain is particularly relevant in the South West. Causes can include defects to rainwater goods, pointing, render, openings or construction details, and traditional solid-wall buildings may behave differently from modern cavity construction.

Death Watch Beetle can affect old hardwood timbers, particularly in historic buildings. Evidence can include characteristic exit holes and infestation may warrant specialist assessment, moisture control and treatment.

Flood risk can arise from rivers, the sea, groundwater or inadequate surface-water drainage. It can affect insurance, mortgageability, saleability and value, so the position should be investigated where a property is in an at-risk location.

Flat roofs have finite service lives that depend on the covering, deck, installation and exposure. Repair or renewal should also consider insulation, ventilation and the condition of the concealed deck.

A flying freehold exists where part of one freehold property extends over another. Significant areas can affect legal rights and lender acceptance, so your legal adviser should confirm the extent and implications.

Gabions are wire cages filled with stone, often used as retaining structures. They drain effectively and can tolerate some movement, but their ultimate lifespan depends heavily on the durability of the wire cage.

External ground at or above internal floor or damp-proof-course level can increase the risk of penetrating damp. Lowering ground levels, improving drainage or suitable waterproofing may be considered depending on the property.

Proximity to pylons or electrical infrastructure can concern purchasers and may influence market perception. Where this is material, current specialist guidance should be obtained.

Insulation can improve thermal performance, but suitability depends on the construction and exposure of the building. Particular care is needed when retrofitting insulation to traditional or exposed properties.

Japanese Knotweed is an invasive plant found across the UK. Its presence can affect property transactions and may require specialist identification and a suitable management or remediation strategy.

Lime mortars and renders allow many traditional walls to release absorbed moisture. Inappropriate hard, impermeable cement-rich repairs can crack and trap moisture, increasing the risk of deterioration.

Heavy moss and lichen growth can impede roof drainage and contribute to blocked gutters. Periodic removal or suitable treatment may be required.

Movement can result from settlement, subsidence, heave, thermal effects, drainage problems, trees or other mechanisms. The pattern and history of cracking are important; further structural-engineering advice may be recommended where the cause or significance is uncertain.

Some older replacement windows may not provide a suitable emergency escape opening. Where escape provision is inadequate, the installation should be assessed by an appropriately qualified person.

Pitch-fibre drainage was widely used in the mid-20th century and can deform or delaminate internally. Where suspected, drainage investigation can establish condition and whether repair or replacement is required.

Pot-block wall construction was used in some domestic buildings in the mid-20th century. It can have poor thermal performance and may be less readily accepted by some mainstream mortgage lenders.

Solar-panel installations should be considered in terms of roof condition, structural loading, weatherproofing and any associated lease or ownership arrangement. These matters can also be relevant to lenders.

Defective or blocked gutters and downpipes can contribute to damp, timber decay and even ground-related movement. They should discharge effectively to suitable drainage and be maintained regularly.

Mass concrete was used in some buildings during the first half of the 20th century. In parts of the South West it can be associated with poor aggregates and may warrant specialist concrete assessment.

Thatch life depends on material, workmanship, roof pitch, exposure and maintenance. Insurance and fire-risk considerations are important, and listed buildings may be subject to conservation requirements.

Tie bars can restrain walls affected by movement or roof spread. Their presence is often evidence of historic structural intervention and may justify further assessment if movement appears ongoing.

Vermin commonly affect roof voids and can damage insulation and stored materials. Persistent infestation may require a pest-control specialist.