Blogs
Defect’s Liability Period – Final Inspection
Thursday 14th November 2024
Completing a large roof replacement project is a significant achievement, but the work doesn't stop there. To ensure the project's success, it is crucial to carry out a thorough inspection at the end of the defect’s liability period. This inspection allows us to identify and address any remaining minor defects promptly that should be rectified by the contractor on site.
Before conducting the inspection, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the defect’s liability period. On this project, the defect’s liability period was 12 months after practical completion of the works. Within this period, it would be made clear whether there were any major issues with the roof that should be dealt with earlier. The reason the period is often 12 months is because the roof needs to go through all seasons.
It is important to review relevant documents to understand the agreed-upon scope of work, materials used, and any specific requirements for the roof replacement. This will help you identify whether the remaining defects fall within the defined parameters.
Prior to our inspection we outlined the areas that needed to be inspected, such as the roof surface, flashings, gutters, and drainage systems to ensure that no areas are missed during the inspection. By coordinating with the contractor responsible for the roof replacement project, we informed them about the upcoming inspection to discuss the remaining defects that needed to be addressed.
We started the inspection by conducting a visual assessment of the roof and its components. Looking for signs of damage, improper installation, or any other defects that may have occurred during the defect’s liability period. We took photographs and videos to document the findings, ensuring clear evidence of any issues, whilst also using our drone to get an overview of the roof, and close ups to areas that were harder for us to access.
Once we have recorded all identified defects, we clearly documented each defect, including its location, description, and photographic evidence. When the report was completed, we shared the inspection findings with the contractor, highlighting the identified defects and their prioritisation.
Conducting a successful inspection at the end of a defect’s liability period for a large roof replacement project is essential for ensuring the project's long-term success. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can effectively identify and address any remaining minor defects, ultimately providing a durable and reliable roof for years to come.
