Historical Context and Manufacturing Background

The Miller Temporary Bungalow, also known as the Miller No-Fines or simply No-Fines, is a unique piece of British architectural history. Manufactured by J Miller & Partners Ltd, these bungalows were constructed during the immediate post-World War II period, specifically between 1945 and 1946. The urgency of the post-war housing crisis necessitated the rapid development of temporary housing solutions, and the Miller Temporary Bungalow was one such response. Only 100 units were built, making them a rare find in today’s property market.

These bungalows were primarily located in areas that experienced significant wartime destruction, such as parts of London, Birmingham, and other major cities. The aim was to provide quick, affordable housing for families displaced by the war. Despite their “temporary” label, many of these structures have stood the test of time, albeit with varying degrees of maintenance and modification.

Design and Construction Characteristics

General Design

The Miller Temporary Bungalow is a detached, single-storey structure characterized by its shallow pitch gable roof covered with asbestos cement sheets. The external walls are rendered throughout, giving the bungalow a uniform appearance. A flat canopy over the front door is another distinctive feature. These bungalows were designed to be functional and straightforward, with minimal architectural embellishments.

Substructure

The substructure consists of a concrete raft foundation, which provides a stable base for the building. The perimeter and internal dwarf walls are made of no-fines concrete, a type of concrete that lacks fine aggregates like sand. This material choice was both economical and quick to produce, aligning with the urgent housing needs of the time.

External Walls

The external walls are rendered 8-inch no-fines concrete, lined with hardboard on timber battens. This construction method provided adequate insulation and structural integrity while keeping costs low. The walls were designed to be durable but have shown varying degrees of wear and tear over the decades.

Partitions and Internal Walls

Internal partitions are typically timber stud walls lined with hardboard. These partitions are lightweight and easy to construct, making them ideal for the rapid assembly required during the post-war period. However, they may not offer the same level of sound insulation or durability as more modern materials.

Floors

The ground floor consists of tongue-and-groove (T&G) boarding on timber battens, which are supported by timber joists on a timber wall plate. This construction method provides a solid and stable floor but may be susceptible to issues like wood rot and termite damage if not properly maintained.

Ceilings and Roof

The ceilings are made of plasterboard, a common material that offers a smooth finish and ease of installation. The roof structure includes timber battens cast into the no-fines concrete external walls, timber rafters, purlins, and asbestos cement sheets. The use of asbestos was common at the time but poses significant health risks today, necessitating careful handling and potential replacement.

Typical Hazards and Risks

Asbestos

One of the most significant hazards associated with Miller Temporary Bungalows is the presence of asbestos in the roofing materials. Asbestos was widely used in construction during the mid-20th century due to its fire-resistant properties. However, it is now known to be a severe health hazard, causing diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. If you are considering purchasing a Miller Temporary Bungalow, it is crucial to have the asbestos professionally assessed and, if necessary, removed.

Structural Integrity

The no-fines concrete used in the construction of these bungalows can be prone to issues such as cracking and spalling. Over time, the lack of fine aggregates can lead to a weaker structure, especially if the building has been exposed to harsh weather conditions. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure the long-term stability of the property.

Damp and Moisture

The concrete raft foundation and no-fines concrete walls can be susceptible to damp and moisture ingress. This can lead to issues such as mould growth, wood rot in timber elements, and general deterioration of the building fabric. Proper damp-proofing measures and regular maintenance are crucial to mitigate these risks.

Fire Safety

While the use of asbestos in the roofing provides some fire resistance, the timber elements of the structure can be highly flammable. Ensuring that the property has adequate fire safety measures, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, is essential.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

The Miller Temporary Bungalow is not explicitly classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act. However, given its age and the materials used in its construction, it is essential to approach any purchase with caution. A thorough survey by a qualified professional can help identify any potential issues and provide guidance on necessary repairs or modifications.

Inspection Guide for Surveyors

Preliminary Assessment

Before conducting a detailed inspection, gather as much historical information as possible about the specific property. This includes any previous surveys, maintenance records, and modifications. Understanding the property’s history can provide valuable context for your inspection.

External Inspection

Roof

• Check for signs of asbestos degradation, such as crumbling or flaking.
• Look for any modifications to the roof pitch, as these can indicate previous issues or repairs.
• Inspect the condition of the timber rafters and purlins for signs of rot or termite damage.

Walls

• Examine the rendered external walls for cracks, spalling, or other signs of deterioration.
• Check for any signs of damp or moisture ingress, particularly around the base of the walls.

Foundation

• Inspect the concrete raft foundation for cracks or other signs of structural movement.
• Look for any evidence of subsidence or settlement.

Internal Inspection

Partitions and Internal Walls

• Check the condition of the timber stud partitions and hardboard linings for signs of damage or wear.
• Look for any signs of damp or mould, particularly in areas with poor ventilation.

Floors

• Inspect the T&G boarding for signs of wear, rot, or termite damage.
• Check the timber battens and joists for structural integrity.

Ceilings

• Examine the plasterboard ceilings for cracks, sagging, or other signs of damage.
• Check for any signs of water ingress, particularly around roof penetrations.

Utilities and Services

• Ensure that the electrical and plumbing systems are up to modern standards.
• Check for any signs of outdated or unsafe installations.

Typical Defects and Maintenance Tips

Common Defects

• Asbestos Degradation: As mentioned earlier, the asbestos cement sheets used in the roofing can degrade over time, posing significant health risks.
• Concrete Cracking: The no-fines concrete used in the walls and foundation can develop cracks, leading to structural issues.
• Damp and Moisture: The concrete raft foundation and no-fines concrete walls can be prone to damp and moisture ingress, leading to mould growth and wood rot.
• Timber Rot: The timber elements of the structure, including the rafters, purlins, and floor joists, can be susceptible to rot and termite damage.

Maintenance Tips

• Asbestos Management: If asbestos is present, have it professionally assessed and, if necessary, removed. Do not attempt to handle asbestos yourself.
• Concrete Repairs: Regularly inspect the concrete elements of the structure for cracks and other signs of deterioration. Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage.
• Damp-Proofing: Ensure that the property has adequate damp-proofing measures in place. This may include installing a damp-proof course (DPC) or using damp-proof membranes.
• Timber Treatment: Regularly inspect the timber elements of the structure for signs of rot or termite damage. Treat any affected areas promptly to prevent further deterioration.

Variants and Modifications

Over the years, many Miller Temporary Bungalows have undergone various modifications and upgrades. Some common variants include:

Roof Modifications

• Steep Pitch Gable Roof: Some bungalows have had their shallow pitch gable roofs replaced with steep pitch gable roofs made of timber trusses and concrete tiles. This modification can improve the property’s aesthetic appeal and provide better drainage.
• Roof Overcladding: In some cases, the original asbestos cement sheets have been overclad with modern roofing materials, such as metal or composite panels. This can improve the roof’s durability and reduce the health risks associated with asbestos.

Wall Modifications

• External Wall Overcladding: Some bungalows have had their external walls overclad with dry dash render, expanded metal lathing, and polystyrene insulation. This can improve the property’s thermal performance and provide additional protection against the elements.
• Insulation Upgrades: Upgrading the insulation in the walls and roof can significantly improve the property’s energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

Conclusion

The Miller Temporary Bungalow is a fascinating piece of British architectural history, offering a unique glimpse into the post-war housing crisis and the innovative solutions developed to address it. While these bungalows were originally intended as temporary housing, many have stood the test of time and remain in use today. However, they come with their own set of challenges and risks, particularly related to the materials used in their construction.

If you are considering purchasing a Miller Temporary Bungalow, it is essential to conduct a thorough survey and understand the potential issues and maintenance requirements. By doing so, you can ensure that your investment is both safe and sound.

At Flettons, we’re committed to safeguarding your investment. When considering a property purchase, trust our seasoned expertise to reveal any hidden threats. For a thorough building survey, get your instant quote through our quote calculator or reach out directly at 0203 691 0451. Your home’s safety is our top priority.

---