On a cold and misty morning in January earlier this year, we arrived in the town of West Bay, Dorset to undertake a secret mission on a property that was home to the fictional character DI Alec Hardy played by David Tennant in the TV series BROADCHURCH. Our mission, to carry out a full Timber Condition Survey and report any structural timber defects to our client, the prospective purchaser.
Britbank made famous with its appearances in the recent TV series BROADCHURCH
This waterside Timber Framed Chalet located on the River Brit in West Bay was built in the early 1900,s although has been subject to much repair and alteration over the years, given its exposure to the prevailing winds and salt laden atmosphere. We were also informed that this two bedroom, centrally heated chalet, that basically stands on piles of bricks, has also come close to flooding in the past, with the water levels rising to the underside of the timber flooring.
Our client at that time was planning to purchase the property and there was a requirement for a low profile, Timber Condition Survey (given the interest in the property), which we are pleased to confirm, it passed with flying colours. No significant defects or areas of decay were identified, other than general weathering issues and the need for routine maintenance and decoration.
Front elevation of Britbank
Much of the external timber cladding has been replaced over the years, as had a good percentage of the floor platform, with the sensible use of pre-treated timbers and wall plates and the added benefit of good air flow beneath the Chalet will no doubt minimise the risk of future decay affecting the sub floor structure.
Replacement floor joists supported on blocks/ bricks with slate DPC packing.
Premier Heritage’s survey involved the use of Digital Micro Drilling of original floor timbers and general investigation using moisture measuring instruments, as well as Thermal Imaging to locate the layout of the vertical timber framed walls, which did confirm that one corner of the property was in fact clad brickwork and not timber framed.
We are pleased to confirm that our client’s purchase of Britbank has now completed and allowed us to produce this short case study.
