Fundamentals of building construction and defect identification

Understand the different types of building materials used in construction, a range of property styles and the identification and repair of defects to help both sellers and buyers in the sales process.

This course is ideal for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of building construction to assist in the sales negotiation process.

You will develop an understanding of terminology used by surveyors in their reports. Whilst estate agents are generally not surveyors, the greater your knowledge of how construction techniques and defects interlink, the better you will be able to advise your clients.

Topics

The first part of this course explores the differences between property styles and ages. It will provide an explanation of basic building construction covering:

Roofs and roof coverings
Gutters and downpipes
Walls
Windows and doors
Floors
Identification of non-traditional construction
Services

The second part of this course identifies the major causes of defects in properties and how they can be repaired to help both sellers and buyers in the sale process, covering:

Asbestos
Condensation
Penetrating damp
Rising damp
Timber defects including wet and dry rot and beetle infestation
Cracking to walls
Foundation movement and underpinning

Virtual classroom vs face-to-face

Our virtual classroom combines convenience and engagement, offering expert-led sessions you can join from anywhere. With real-time interaction and clear guidelines for smooth collaboration, you’ll enjoy a professional and dynamic learning experience without the need to travel. To enable the course to run smoothly, we ask that you mute your microphone unless asking a question and keep your camera on.

With our face-to-face courses you’ll benefit from the full lesson plan plus an increased level of interaction and group work. This is your chance to participate in group discussions with our expert trainer and other delegates on the course.

Location: Propertymark Westminster, 4th Floor, 5-8 The Sanctuary, London, SW1P 3JS

In-house training

Bring this course to your team, your way

This course can be delivered in-house for any number of participants, either in person at your office or online using our virtual platform. There’s no minimum or maximum group size, and we’ll tailor the delivery to suit your team’s needs.

Our highly experienced trainers will work closely with you to make sure the content and format are right. If it’s face-to-face, you just need to provide the venue and refreshments. We’ll handle everything else, including the materials and delivery.