Bexhill On Sea
Measured Survey &
Structural Appraisal
Client Brief
DMP was approached by a National Property and Planning Consultancy, who in-turn was instructed by a University Institution established by King Henry VIIII 1546.
Our client who owns approximately 109 acres of land in Bexhill including varying small holdings and farm buildings. They required a Measured Survey and Structural Appraisal report to support a proposed prior notification application. Specifically, to convert existing agricultural buildings of circa 4000 sq.ft with external yards, to provide 3No. three bedroom residential dwellings.
The interesting property, consisting of a traditional regular courtyard of ‘U’ shape structure. Comprising the main two storey barn with small adjoining lean-to structure, and with two arms of single storey buildings projecting in an Easterly direction. An additional adjoining element to the main ‘U’ shape plan featuring an attached single storey open fronted livestock building and secondary yard to North.
DMP Solution
To begin, DMP discussed with our client the proposal for the conversion of the existing agricultural buildings into dwellings. During the inspection of the buildings the varying details where identified and recorded.
Our surveyors undertook a full Measured Survey of the building collecting details of the principal elevations and historic fabric of the property including timber sizes. During the inspection it was identified that the main barn had been subject to a substantial fire. Specifically, with principal oak beams/structure to roof being charred, replacement roof rafters and contemporary ‘Redland 49’ concrete roof tiles to the main roof.
A point of interest, historic and original timbers were found to the Northern and Southern projections including a timber etched with ‘1847’ presumed to be a replacement timber, as it is understood the impressive barns once formed part of a post medieval farm. Sadly the medieval house (circa 1616) did not survive the Victorian renovation of the 19th Century farm buildings as found today.
Moving forward, preparation of the existing drawings, which included detailed elevations and structural drawings containing timber sizes. Equally important, the zoning of the building due to its varying construction techniques and historic timbers identified.
Furthermore, as part of the instruction DMP recorded the structural integrity of the buildings and collated images to support the Structural Appraisal Report, in-turn to support the planning application.
Our surveyors found that the buildings is of sound condition and capable of conversion without significant rebuilding, modification or extension.
An overview of the report as below;
- Introduction
- Brief description of the property
- Observations of roof and elevations
- Discussion and recommendations of the main structural elements, brickwork and foundations
- Conversion considerations including roof/wall insulation, ventilation, damp, heating, services, mezzanine floors and windows and doors
- Conclusion
Overall the barns were suitable for conversion to residential dwellings without the requirement for rebuilding. Where required the replacement of existing structural timbers and brickwork advised, In addition, repointing of mortar joints in particular to the flint work.
During the whole process DMP understood our clients “wish list” and specific requirements, keeping them fully informed. Maintained continued discussions with our clients Planning Consultant to ensure the level of detail required to support the proposed Prior Approval Application for proposed Change of Use of Agricultural. We were able to make amendments where needed and if necessary at short notice.
