The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings and The Institute of Historic Building
Conservation both promote the principle that: “Maintaining your property makes good sense and saves money. A small regular investment in maintenance can
limit the need for, or the extent of expensive repairs. The annual cleaning of gutters and drains can
be much cheaper and a lot less inconvenient than having to cope with a serious
outbreak of dry rot in timber roof trusses following a number of years neglect.”
The construction of
a building is a relatively simple and straightforward matter. However the science involved with the
materials and how they react with the environment and inappropriate repairs is
much more complicated. Re-pointing or
rendering over a stone or brick wall with cement in an attempt to cure damp or
improve the aesthetics; will in five to ten years time cost the property owner
a lot more money. Understanding the
science of materials is as important as having the skills to work with them.
Have you checked and
maintained your stopcock this year? If the worst happens and you get a leaking
pipe are you able to turn it off quickly, before hundreds of pounds is required
to repair the damage? Have you checked
that your underground drainage is flowing away correctly ensuring that roots
from trees and shrubs are not causing expensive and disruptive damage? Have you checked the fabric of the building to
ensure that moisture is not penetrating and creating the conditions for rot and
decay to set in? Is the ventilation adequate to allow the building to breath
and prevent health damaging mould spores to form in your kitchen and bathrooms?
Our annual condition report checks these and other aspects of your property to
allow early intervention and prevent costly repairs.
The Gaps Club
Condition Report will provide you with a clear and simple way of understanding
the condition of your property. The
Report could form the basis of a maintenance plan that will help you to protect
your most important asset. When remedial
work is required, we can help you find a suitable tradesman, specify the work
and see that it represents value for money.
Membership of Gaps
Club allows access to our handy-man service for those little jobs that do not
warrant the services of a general builder.
In the event of an emergency, you will have access to our 24-hour
service without callout charges.
If you understand
the necessity of The Gaps Club Service or have a project in mind that requires
some advice, contact us for a free, no obligation discussion at your
convenience.
In addition to the annual condition report we carry out the following 15 service points:
Batteries changed in Smoke Alarms and Carbon Dioxide detectors.
Manufactures of these products recommend testing; or changing the batteries and testing the alarm annually. We do this important task to help keep you and your property safe.
Check external structures for signs of dilapidation.
This "stitch in time" service highlights issues before they become costly repair bills.
Damp checks, looking for bridges to damp course.
Damp can have a big negative impact on the home: Causing unsightly marks on decoration, and major damage to the fabric of the building, in particular timber and plaster.
Drainage check, lift manhole cover, flush and disinfect chamber and outlet.
Out of sight and out of mind, is the way we think of the house drainage. This is fine until we notice the problem, usually as we get back flow from drains or manholes. An annual check can pick up early warning signs and prevent costly call outs. It will also help to eliminate summer smells.
External paintwork and wood finishes checked for flaking and damage.
Early warning of problems can be quickly dealt with, to extend the time before a full repaint is needed. Also extends the life of the timber or painted surface.
Frames of windows and external doors checked and eased if sticking.
Fix sticking window and doors to keep functionality and prevent strain on joints and frames.
Gullies and guttering cleared of leaves and plant material.
Ineffective and blocked guttering can cause expensive repair bills from damp and water ingress.
Insulation checks on lagging to pipes and water tanks. Draft proofing checks.
The soaring cost of energy makes it more important than ever that insulation is as good as we can make it.
Overflow ball-cocks checked and adjusted if necessary.
Dripping overflows waste money and water, and if not attended to can lead to problems with damp.
Roof given visual check from gutter line, for slipped tiles and slates.
The roof is a symbol of warmth and security. Early notification of problems will save money and provide peace of mind; and help to keep the roof sound.
Security of windows and doors checked. Locks maintained.
Security comes high on any householders’ priority list. We will help keep members security working and maintained.
Stopcocks checked and lubricated.
It is late to discover that stopcocks have stuck when they need to be turned off quickly. We will make sure that if it needs to be turned off, it can be.
Timber checked, where exposed, for signs of Dry/Wet rot, wood worm and pests.
Timber is a brilliant and versatile building medium that will last a life time if looked after. We will help members make the most of their timber assets.
Ventilation and gas intakes cleared. Other problems noted.
To keep systems working safely and effectively, keeping air inlets and outlets clear and unobstructed is crucial.
Boundary integrity checked visually.
Looking for early signs of compromise from dilapidations, animals, neighbours' children, etc.
GAPS will record all servicing by way of photography and logging commentary in the Condition Report that will be presented to you.
