Intrusive Surveys and External Façades
At Buildtech, we perform intrusive façade surveys to investigate the materials and construction hidden behind cladding, helping identify any potential safety or compliance risks.
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Expert safety behind the cladding
At Buildtech, we perform intrusive façade surveys to investigate the materials and construction hidden behind cladding, helping identify any potential safety or compliance risks.
Our approach is tailored to each building’s design, height, and materials, helping clients meet safety and regulatory obligations with confidence.
Where relevant, we also assess whether a full Fire Risk Appraisal of External Wall construction (FRAEW) is required, in accordance with PAS 9980.
What our surveys involve
We work closely with building owners, managing agents, and fire engineers to ensure that all investigations are planned and executed with minimal disruption to residents and occupiers.
Our surveys typically involve the careful removal of external cladding or finishes to expose the underlying components, such as insulation, cavity barriers, membranes, and fixings, for detailed inspection, documentation, and material sampling.
Health, safety, and compliance
All intrusive works are carried out by qualified professionals, following strict health and safety protocols. We provide full method statements and risk assessments as part of our standard process and ensure compliance with access and working-at-height regulations.
Communication with stakeholders is key. We manage all necessary permissions and provide updates throughout the process to maintain transparency and accountability.
Clear reporting
After the survey, we deliver a detailed report that outlines:
This documentation supports compliance with the Building Safety Act, informs insurance assessments, and helps clients plan appropriate next steps with confidence.
If you’re managing a building where cladding safety is a concern, or simply want to understand what lies behind your façade, contact Buildtech today to learn how an intrusive survey can support your building safety strategy.
FAQs
What is an intrusive survey of external facades?
An intrusive survey is a detailed investigation of a building’s external wall system that involves physically opening the façade to inspect the materials and construction methods used beneath the surface. This may include removing cladding, insulation, cavity barriers, or other components to assess their condition, compliance, and fire performance.
Why is an intrusive survey necessary?
Intrusive surveys are essential when a visual or desktop assessment isn’t sufficient to determine the true makeup and fire safety performance of the external wall system. They provide critical evidence for Fire Risk Appraisals of External Walls (FRAEWs), PAS 9980 assessments, or to inform remediation plans.
What does an intrusive survey involve?
The process typically includes:
– Careful removal of façade sections at selected locations
– On-site inspection and documentation of materials and cavity barriers
– Sampling and laboratory testing (if required)
– A detailed report with findings, photographs, and professional recommendations
At Buildtech Consultancy, we ensure all works are planned, risk-assessed, and carried out with minimal disruption to residents.
Who carries out the intrusive survey?
Surveys should be carried out by experienced contractors working alongside fire engineers or façade consultants. At Buildtech Consultancy, we manage the entire process, from planning and access arrangements to safe removal and reinstatement of materials, ensuring all works are completed to a high standard.
Will the survey damage the building?
Depending on the type of façade system and the level of information required, we will always undertake the necessary works to obtain sufficient evidence. In many cases, a significant amount of information can be gathered using an endoscope inserted through a 10mm drill hole. However, to confirm key construction details, it is typically necessary to carry out more extensive intrusive inspections – usually at least once on each elevation. This may involve the removal of a brick, the drilling of a core hole through render, or the creation of an opening approximately 225mm in size within an EPS render system.
All inspection areas will be carefully reinstated following the survey, either by refitting the removed brick or by securing an aluminium plate over the opening. Buildtech will ensure that all openings are properly sealed and re-insulated. Reinstatement will be completed to a high standard, with minimal impact on the building’s appearance or structural integrity, and in full compliance with relevant health and safety standards.
How long does an intrusive survey take?
The duration varies depending on the size and complexity of the building, but most surveys take 1-3 days on site. Additional time may be needed for lab testing and report preparation.
Do residents need to vacate the property during the survey?
In most cases, no. We work to minimise disruption and can coordinate access to specific areas or flats as needed. Any works inside properties are agreed upon in advance with building management or residents.
What happens after the survey?
You’ll receive a comprehensive report outlining the construction details of the external walls, along with photographs and, where needed, test results. This report can then support PAS 9980 assessments, fire strategies, or remediation planning.
Is an intrusive survey a legal requirement?
It’s not always legally required, but it is often strongly recommended, particularly for buildings with unknown or complex external wall systems, or where FRAEWs or EWS1 forms cannot be completed based on visual inspections alone.
How do I arrange an intrusive survey with Buildtech Consultancy?
Simply get in touch with our team to discuss your building’s needs. We’ll guide you through the process, provide a clear scope of works, and ensure everything is completed efficiently, safely, and professionally.
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Please submit your enquiry here and one of our team will be in touch as soon as possible.
Interested in working with us?
Contact us now for a free with no obligation estimate.
Buildtech Consultancy Ltd
Registered Office: 7 Bournemouth Road, Chandler’s Ford, Eastleigh, Hampshire, England, SO53 3DA
Companies House Number: 11670730