Over recent months, with all the persistent rainfall we’ve been experiencing, a number of homeowners across Weston-super-Mare have reported ongoing water ingress within their properties.
We were recently instructed to support a structural warranty claim at a property located on a popular new-build development in Weston-super-Mare, where the client had identified moisture affecting both ground and first floor areas.
Following a detailed investigation — including visual inspection and thermal imaging — we assessed all plausible causes, from internal moisture generation through to external envelope failure.
The pattern of dampness, location of staining, and material degradation confirmed rainwater ingress associated with defects in the building envelope.
Moisture ingress was observed:
• Above the ground floor patio door head — consistent with cavity tracking, with moisture entering at first floor level and travelling within the cavity before discharging at lintel/head level
• At first floor window boards, including swelling of MDF components
• Around first floor window reveals
Thermal imaging further supported the presence of localised moisture at window and door junctions.
The primary contributing factors identified were:
• Exposure to prevailing south-westerly coastal winds, driving rain against the rear elevation
• External uPVC window sills installed with insufficient falls, preventing effective water shedding and allowing water to track back towards the building envelope
• Failure and deterioration of perimeter mastic seals at window interfaces
• Likely deficiencies in cavity tray stop-end formation and/or weep discharge
In combination, these defects created a pathway for wind-driven rain to penetrate at vulnerable junctions.
From a regulatory perspective, the defects identified are not consistent with the requirements of Approved Document C of the Building Regulations (Resistance to Moisture), which expects buildings to adequately resist the passage of precipitation, particularly in exposed locations.
While sealant failure is often considered a maintenance issue, the findings in this case point to wider deficiencies in design and/or installation, particularly in relation to sill geometry and weathering detailing.
By identifying the ingress mechanism and aligning the defects with regulatory expectations, we were able to provide clear, evidence-based support for the client’s warranty claim.
At ELR Building Surveying and Consultancy, we regularly undertake investigations into building defects where the underlying cause is not immediately apparent — combining detailed technical analysis, a thorough understanding of Building Regulations, and knowledge of in-service building performance.
If you’re experiencing persistent dampness or unexplained moisture within your property, it’s important to establish the correct cause early — particularly where warranty liability may be involved.
We are happy to investigate specific defects within your property and provide clear, evidence-based guidance on the appropriate remedial approach.
Contact us today to discuss your requirements:
📧 office@elrsurveying.com
📞 01934 411231
🔗 https://elrsurveying.com
