Refurbishing an older property can uncover issues that were previously hidden. In the video below, Stan Dickens FRICS examines signs of woodworm discovered during the refurbishment of an apartment in a building more than 100 years old.
The building contains structural timber columns and beams, making it important to understand the extent of any damage and whether further investigation or repairs are needed.
Looking beyond the surface
The presence of woodworm damage raises questions that require professional judgement: how extensive is it, is there evidence of ongoing activity, and has the timber’s ability to support loads been affected?
Stan carries out some initial checks in the video and discusses his observations. These checks alone do not establish structural safety, and the findings relate specifically to the timber being examined.
Do not attempt to assess structural timber yourself using a knife or similar tool. If you discover suspected woodworm, appoint a suitably qualified expert to assess the damage and advise on any further investigation, treatment or repairs.
Considering moisture
In this apartment, the affected timber was close to bathroom fittings. Stan suspects that water getting behind the bath, shower and washbasins, together with moisture behind a mirror, may have contributed to conditions favourable to woodworm.
The refurbishment therefore needs to consider both the affected timber and the possible sources of moisture, helping to reduce the likelihood of the same conditions recurring.
Buying an older property?
This case illustrates why the condition of an older building deserves careful attention. Some issues only become visible when finishes or fittings are removed, so even a pre-purchase survey has limits where structural elements are concealed.
Villa Surveyors connects property buyers with a network of local surveyors and valuers across Spain, Portugal, Italy and Andorra.
Contact Villa Surveyors to enquire about a pre-purchase property survey.