https://www.facebook.com/102840341957046/

MJW Consult

Home
United Kingdom
York
MJW Consult

Providing a range of property services including building surveying, new build homes snagging inspections, project and construction management
(1)

Chartered Building Surveyor, Chartered Builder and Chartered Building Engineer with over 16 years experience in the construction industry. We also hold membership of the Institute of Clerks of Works and Construction Inspectorate, the Institute of Roofing and the Association of Construction Quality Professionals, as well as others.

23/05/2026

MJW Consult is pleased to share that the company’s founder and owner has joined the Presidential Team of the Institute of Clerks of Works and Construction Inspectorate (ICWCI) as President Elect, and will serve as President of the Institute in 2027.

The ICWCI is a professional body dedicated to promoting quality, integrity, and high standards throughout the construction industry. Its members work across a wide range of projects, including residential developments, schools, healthcare facilities, commercial buildings, and major infrastructure schemes.

Many people outside the built environment sector may be unfamiliar with the role of a Clerk of Works or Construction Inspector. In simple terms, these professionals independently monitor construction works to help ensure buildings are constructed correctly, safely, and in accordance with the required standards, specifications, and regulations. Their work helps identify defects, improve workmanship, and protect both clients and future occupants.

MJW Consult looks forward to supporting the important work of the Institute and the wider construction sector over the coming years.

03/05/2026

Poor placement of extractor fan terminals is something I am seeing far too often on new-build inspections, and it is not just a cosmetic issue, it is a functional and compliance concern.

At first glance, this external vent placement may appear acceptable, however the positioning fundamentally undermines the purpose of the ventilation system.

Approved Document F of the Building Regulations is clear that ventilation systems should be designed to minimise the intake of external air pollutants. This includes air discharged from the building itself. In this scenario, moisture-laden air extracted from the bathroom has a clear path to re-enter the same space. This can occur through an open or partially open window, or via background ventilation such as trickle vents.

The consequence is simple. Instead of removing moisture and improving indoor air quality, the system risks reintroducing humid air back into the room. Over time, this can contribute to condensation, mould growth, and a general reduction in the effectiveness of the ventilation strategy.

This is not just poor design coordination, it reflects a lack of understanding of how ventilation systems are intended to function in practice.

Extractor terminals should always be positioned to discharge clear of openings, ensuring that extracted air cannot be drawn back into the building. It is a straightforward principle, but one that clearly requires greater attention on site.

22/04/2026

𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗲𝘁 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗻!

I came across this during a recent inspection. It had clearly been installed with good intentions, to protect a child from the perceived dangers of electrical sockets.

Products such as plug in socket covers are widely marketed as essential safety items for parents, designed to prevent children from accessing live electrical parts. However, the reality is quite different.

Standard UK 13 amp sockets are already engineered with built in safety features and are manufactured to BS 1363, specifically BS 1363-2 for socket outlets. This standard requires internal safety shutters behind the live and neutral terminals, which remain closed unless the earth pin of a correctly formed plug is inserted. This creates a physical barrier that prevents access to the electrical current.

The problem with socket protectors is that they are shaped like a plug and can operate that shutter mechanism. When inserted, they can hold the shutters open, effectively bypassing the safety feature that is meant to protect against electric shock. In the photograph shown, the protector has been inserted upside down, and the internal plastic shutters to the live and neutral terminals have been fully opened, allowing direct access to live components.

There is also a risk that these devices increase the likelihood of overheating, and in some cases contribute to fire risk.

In simple terms, using a plug protector can undo the safety features already built into a UK socket.

The safest approach is usually the simplest one. Leave the socket as it was designed and avoid using plug in covers altogether.

09/04/2026

A recent inspection of an underfloor heating system highlighted an issue with the pipework layout.

After reviewing the heating circuit arrangement alongside the thermal images, it became evident that heating loops were missing in certain rooms and also absent from specific areas within rooms. This has resulted in noticeable temperature differentials across the floor surface, which will impact the homeowner's comfort levels.

The images clearly show the installed pipework in orange, with cooler zones appearing in blue where no heat is present.

This type of issue is not always apparent visually but can significantly affect the usability of a space. Thermal imaging remains a valuable tool in verifying installation quality and identifying inconsistencies in underfloor heating systems.

If you have concerns about uneven heating within your property, it may be worth investigating further.

07/04/2026

𝗔𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻...

The brickwork on this property shows significant inconsistency in perpend joint widths. Measurements taken on site range from approximately 12 mm up to 26 mm, which is an excessive variation within the same wall area and results in a noticeably irregular bond pattern. In one location, the bricks have been butted tightly together with no perpend joint formed at all, further disrupting the uniformity of the masonry and indicating poor setting out.

Typically, masonry bed and perpend joints should be constructed to a nominal thickness of approximately 10 mm, with only small tolerances. In practice, joints are generally expected to fall within a range of around 8 mm to 12 mm and remain consistent across the elevation. The recorded measurements significantly exceed these typical tolerances.

The header brick above the doorway has also been installed out of level. A measurement of approximately 43 mm per metre was recorded. As this relates to a single header brick, this equates to almost 10 mm deviation across the height of the brick.

This highlights the benefit of having your new build property inspected by a qualified and competent surveyor. Issues such as inconsistent joint widths, poor setting out and out of level masonry can easily be overlooked but can materially affect the overall quality and appearance of the finished property.

Whilst there is little that can be done without rebuilding, the issues can be documented to allow negotiations in price and other discussions to take place.

24/03/2026

𝗦𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗸𝘀… 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗮 𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲

We are continuing to see a recurring issue on new build properties where stainless steel sinks present with a brown or yellow discolouration to the base of the bowl. At first glance, this is often mistaken for a tea or coffee stain, or assumed to be a simple cleaning issue.

It is not.

This type of marking is typically caused by excessive heat applied to the underside of the sink during installation, most commonly when copper pipework beneath the sink is soldered. The heat transfers through the metal and scorches the stainless steel, permanently altering its finish.

Once this damage has occurred, it cannot be removed through cleaning or polishing. The stainless steel has been heat affected, not stained.

From a quality perspective, this is a workmanship issue. Care should be taken during installation to protect fixtures and fittings from heat exposure, particularly when using a blowtorch in confined spaces beneath completed finishes.

Where identified, the only appropriate remedial action is replacement of the affected sink.

This is also why it is critical to have an inspection carried out by someone with the knowledge and experience to correctly identify and report defects of this nature.

06/03/2026

What looked like a finished bathroom at first glance revealed several significant issues on closer inspection:

• Loose wall tiles that had not been properly fixed
• A dented shower enclosure frame
• A shower tray that was not securely installed
• A significant leak developing beneath the tray

Issues like this are often hidden behind finishes or only become apparent when the installation is properly checked. Left unresolved, a leaking shower can quickly lead to water damage, mould growth, and costly remedial works.

This is exactly why a thorough snagging inspection is so important before living in a new home. Bathrooms and kitchens are some of the highest risk areas for defects due to the number of trades involved and the presence of water.

Every defect we identify is individually recorded, photographed, and referenced so the developer can easily locate and rectify the issue.

Sometimes the problems you cannot see immediately are the ones that matter the most.

28/02/2026

There is often confusion in the residential property market around surveyor designations, and what they actually represent in terms of competence, assessment and accountability.

Not all surveyors operate to the same standards.

Within the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, there are different levels of membership.

Chartered Surveyors (MRICS or FRICS) have achieved the highest professional standard. They have demonstrated competence against a rigorous, globally recognised framework, typically through the Assessment of Professional Competence. This includes structured training, a final assessment interview and a formal ethics module. Chartered members are regulated, must maintain Continuing Professional Development and are accountable under the RICS Rules of Conduct.

Associate members (AssocRICS) are also assessed, but at a different level. They demonstrate competence against defined criteria, typically aligned to Level 3. It is a recognised professional qualification, but it does not represent Chartered status.

By contrast, the Residential Property Surveyors Association is a specialist membership body focused on residential surveying. Membership grades are typically based on qualifications, experience or the review of submitted work. Entry routes are more flexible and are not aligned to a single, standardised professional competency framework.

All routes have a place within the industry, but they are not equivalent.

It is also important to recognise that some parts of the residential market remain unregulated.

New build snagging inspections are not a regulated activity in the UK. There is no statutory requirement for qualifications or professional membership. In practice, this means anyone can present themselves as a snagging inspector, regardless of experience.

A property survey is professional advice that may influence significant financial decisions. Understanding how that advice is qualified, assessed and regulated is essential.

17/02/2026

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗱𝗼 𝘄𝗲 𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗯𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝘃𝗲𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴?

Quite simply, they help us better understand what we are looking at during an inspection.

A high quality thermal imaging camera can highlight temperature differentials that are not visible to the naked eye. This can point us towards potential issues such as moisture ingress, insulation defects, air leakage and thermal bridging. Used correctly, it allows the surveyor to target areas of concern and form a more informed, evidence based diagnosis.

In practice, thermal imaging can be extremely effective. It can help to quickly identify cold spots associated with missing insulation, track potential moisture pathways, and highlight areas where heat loss is occurring. In many cases, it provides a clear visual aid to support our findings and communicate defects to clients.

However, it is important to remember that thermal imaging is a supporting tool, not a standalone solution.

Thermal images must always be interpreted alongside a detailed visual inspection, an understanding of the building’s construction, and supporting evidence such as moisture readings and environmental conditions. Without this context, there is a real risk of misinterpretation.

Technology can enhance our inspections, but it does not replace professional judgement.

The key is using the right equipment, in the right way, to support a robust and well informed diagnosis.

A high-quality thermal imaging camera can highlight temperature differentials that are not visible to the naked eye. This can point us towards potential issues such as moisture ingress, insulation defects, air leakage and thermal bridging. Used correctly, it allows the surveyor to target areas of concern and form a more informed, evidence-based diagnosis.

15/02/2026

It is often the areas you cannot see that can cause the most problems.

During a recent inspection, we removed the bath panel and identified a small pool of water beneath. What appeared to be a minor issue quickly led to the source, a slow leak from the waste assembly.

Left undetected, issues like this can persist for long periods and lead to more significant defects, including timber rot and decay, as well as potential damage to ceilings beneath and other building components.

This is why intrusive checks, such as removing bath panels, are essential as part of a thorough inspection. It is not just about what is visible, but what is happening behind the scenes.

A thorough inspection is not just what you can see, it is what you choose to look behind.

Address

York

Website

facebook.com

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when MJW Consult posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to MJW Consult:

Shortcuts

Want your business to be the top-listed Estate Agent/service in York?