Whitby Apartments

Watts was appointed by the freeholder of a contemporary block of nine apartments to undertake a detailed technical investigation into persistent water ingress affecting the flats beneath the front and rear terrace roof coverings. The instruction formed part of an ongoing defects warranty claim, requiring a robust diagnostic approach and clear, reasoned reporting.

Our Building Surveying team carried out a systematic review of the known issues, meeting with the leaseholders, Managing Agent and the Loss Adjuster to understand the operational history of the building and the chronology of failures. We undertook a comprehensive document review, including original construction details, warranty documentation, previous maintenance records and historic reports.

As part of the diagnostic process, we coordinated and led site inspections and intrusive investigations, moisture mapping, core sampling and targeted opening‑up works to identify the root cause of the water ingress. Our methodology ensured that defects in the waterproofing system, cavity trays and detailing at thresholds, drainage falls and interface junctions were accurately assessed and evidenced.

Following completion of our investigation, we issued a detailed technical report setting out our findings, causation analysis and recommended remedial options. We subsequently met with all stakeholders to present our conclusions, respond to queries, and assist in navigating the warranty claim process.

Watts was then instructed to provide full Building Surveying and Contract Administration services for the remedial works. This included the preparation of a comprehensive design and specification package, tender documentation, procurement of a suitable contractor under a JCT contract, and full post‑contract administration.

In addition, Watts acted as Principal Designer, coordinating health and safety information, managing design risk, and liaising with the Loss Adjuster to secure all necessary approvals. Throughout the works, we monitored contractor performance, verified compliance with the technical specification, and ensured that the remedial solutions provided long‑term resilience and warranty compliance.