Tower Hamlets presents a distinctive building pathology landscape, from the high-rise residential towers and commercial buildings of Canary Wharf and the Isle of Dogs to Victorian terraces in Bow and Bethnal Green. Water ingress in curtain walling systems and flat roof failures are among the borough's most prevalent defects.
High-rise curtain walling is particularly susceptible to water ingress at joint sealant failures, gasket deterioration, drainage blockages within the framing system and differential movement between the facade and structure. These defects can be difficult to locate without systematic investigation and testing.
Flat roofs are also widespread across Tower Hamlets, on both post-war social housing and modern developments. We investigate membrane failures, insulation saturation, ponding, drainage defects and the thermal performance of existing roof build-ups.
Systematic investigation of water penetration through curtain walling and rainscreen cladding systems, including sealant analysis, pressure testing and drainage pathway assessment.
Diagnosis of membrane deterioration, ponding, insulation saturation and drainage defects on flat roofs across residential towers, commercial buildings and social housing estates.
Investigation of damp, structural cracking and roof defects in the Victorian terraced housing of Bow, Bethnal Green and Mile End, including foundation movement and timber decay.
Assessment of facade deterioration, thermal bridging, condensation and air leakage in high-rise residential buildings, including post-Grenfell fire safety related investigations.
RICS regulated building condition surveys for residential and commercial property.
View ServiceRICS Home Survey Level 2 and Level 3 reports for property purchases.
View ServiceParty wall advice for extensions, loft conversions and basement projects.
View ServiceWater ingress in curtain walling systems is most commonly caused by sealant failure at joints, gasket shrinkage or displacement, blocked drainage channels within the framing and differential movement between the facade system and the structural frame. Systematic water testing is often required to isolate the point of entry.
Yes, flat roof investigation is a core part of our building pathology service. We assess membrane condition, identify ponding and drainage issues, test for insulation saturation using non-destructive methods and provide remediation recommendations ranging from targeted repair to full replacement.
Yes, we have extensive experience investigating defects in high-rise residential and commercial buildings across Tower Hamlets, including facade investigations, water ingress diagnosis, structural assessments and fire safety related building envelope reviews.
We use a range of techniques including controlled water spray testing to CWCT standards, electronic leak detection on flat roofs, thermal imaging to identify moisture paths, and targeted opening-up to inspect concealed conditions. The approach is tailored to the specific building type and suspected defect.