Our Jargon Buster is where complex terms meet simple explanation. Are you struggling with difficult words? Don’t worry, Our Jargon Buster has been designed to help. Think of this page as your friendly easy to use guide to confusing terminology that surveyors love to use. We try to keep things simple and clear, so you won’t need a dictonary to understand what we are talking about.
Trim fixed over joint between plaster and door frame
Projecting rear part of usually a Victorian house.
A sloping board along the gable/verge edges of a roof.
Concrete used to fill in the gaps between the drainage channels and brickwork. Always smoothly sloped to prevent a build-up of sewage, water or rats.
A disagreement with the neighbours as to where the boundaries for each property begin/end. A surveyor will help you establish the boundaries before purchase and ultimately avoid any future disputes.
Previously known as a Full Structural Survey, a Building Survey is an incredibly detailed, in-depth report on the overall condition of a property. A building survey will identify any defects, suggest maintenance options and offer extensive information on all parts of the structure.
Loss of strength to concretes associated with chemical changes and rusting to steel reinforcement.
A wall comprising two layers of brickwork with a small gap (or cavity) between them. To prevent too much heat escaping through the gap, many homes require cavity wall insulation.
An extensive examination of a building’s physical condition, identifying any issues and making sure the property is up to scratch.
Excess moisture in the structure of a building, usually resulting from condensation, heavy rainfall or leaking pipes. Damp causes mould on the walls, which always looks unsightly and can potentially result in long-term breathing problems.
The maintenance and repairs needed to restore a property to its original state, usually relating to cosmetic damage.
A fungus which attacks the property and causes wood to rot. This is commonly a result of poor ventilation and high levels of humidity, and can cause significant damage to the structure of a property.
It might sound like a made-up word, but “gazumping” actually refers to a property seller who verbally agrees a sale with one buyer, and then accepts a higher offer from someone else at the last minute.
Lifting of foundations due to swelling of the ground below.
Flat roof covering, usually bitumen based.
A low wall around the edge of a roof or balcony.
A wall that separates two properties owned by two different parties. This is a common cause of boundary disputes, especially when one of the parties involved wants to carry out some renovations. Of course, a building surveyor will make you aware of any party walls and help you avoid disagreements.