Historical Context and Origins

The New Georgian house, a distinctive architectural style, emerged in the 1940s, a period marked by post-war reconstruction and innovation in the UK. These homes were primarily constructed by A Robert’s & Co. Ltd, a notable manufacturer of the era. The design of these houses was influenced by the Georgian architectural style, which was popular in the 18th and early 19th centuries, but with modern adaptations to suit the needs of the mid-20th century.

Typical Locations

New Georgian houses are predominantly found in suburban areas across the UK. These homes were built in limited numbers, with only two known to have been constructed. Their rarity adds to their charm and appeal among property enthusiasts and investors.

Designers and Manufacturers

A Robert’s & Co. Ltd, the manufacturer behind these homes, was known for its innovative approach to construction. The designers aimed to blend traditional Georgian aesthetics with modern building techniques, resulting in a unique and timeless architectural style.

Architectural Characteristics

Exterior Features

New Georgian houses are easily identifiable by their 2-storey semi-detached structure. They feature a steep pitch hipped roof covered with interlocking concrete tiles, which not only adds to their aesthetic appeal but also provides durability and weather resistance. The external walls are constructed entirely of brick, giving the houses a robust and classic appearance. One of the most distinctive features is the octagonal windows on the ground floor, which add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the design.

Interior Layout

The interior of a New Georgian house typically includes a concrete ground floor and a first floor made of tongue-and-groove (T&G) boarding on timber joists. The ceilings on the ground floor are plasterboard, while the first floor features woodwool slabs. These materials were chosen for their durability and ease of maintenance.

Construction Details

Substructure

The substructure of New Georgian houses consists of concrete strip footings and brick under-building, with a concrete slab and damp-proof course (DPC) to prevent moisture ingress. This solid foundation ensures the stability and longevity of the structure.

Frame

The frame of these houses is made up of 18 rolled steel joist (RSJ) stanchions, with various other steel components forming the support beams, perimeter ties, window ties, trusses, and purlins. The steel frame is coated with bituminous paint for protection against corrosion.

External and Internal Walls

The external walls are brick cavity walls with pre-stressed concrete (PSC) frames infilled with woodwool slabs. The separating wall between the semi-detached units is also a PSC frame, infilled with woodwool slabs and a cavity wall with concrete clinker slabs between the stanchions. Internal partitions follow a similar construction method, ensuring consistency and structural integrity throughout the house.

Roof

The roof is constructed with a timber frame, timber battens, and concrete interlocking tiles. This combination provides a strong and weather-resistant covering, essential for the UK’s variable climate.

Typical Hazards and Risks

Structural Issues

One of the primary concerns with New Georgian houses is the potential for structural issues, particularly related to the steel frame. Over time, steel components can corrode, especially if the protective bituminous paint has deteriorated. This can lead to weakened structural integrity and potential safety hazards.

Moisture Ingress

Despite the presence of a damp-proof course, moisture ingress can still be a concern, particularly in older properties where the DPC may have degraded. This can lead to dampness and mould, which can affect both the structural elements and the health of the occupants.

Insulation and Energy Efficiency

New Georgian houses, like many properties from the mid-20th century, may not meet modern standards for insulation and energy efficiency. This can result in higher heating costs and a less comfortable living environment. Retrofitting insulation and upgrading windows can help mitigate these issues.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

The New Georgian house is not classed as defective under the Defective Premises Act. However, it is essential to conduct thorough inspections and assessments to ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help preserve the structural integrity and value of these unique properties.

Inspection Guide for Surveyors

Pre-Inspection Preparation

Before conducting an inspection, it is crucial to gather all available information about the property, including historical records, previous inspection reports, and any known issues. This will help you focus your inspection and identify potential problem areas.

External Inspection

1. Roof: Check the condition of the interlocking concrete tiles and the timber frame. Look for signs of wear, damage, or missing tiles. Inspect the gutters and downpipes for blockages or leaks.
2. Walls: Examine the brickwork for cracks, bulging, or signs of movement. Check the condition of the mortar joints and look for any signs of dampness or efflorescence.
3. Windows: Inspect the octagonal windows for any signs of damage, rot, or poor sealing. Ensure that the frames are in good condition and that the glazing is intact.

Internal Inspection

1. Ground Floor: Check the condition of the concrete slab and look for any signs of cracking or movement. Inspect the plasterboard ceilings for any signs of water damage or sagging.
2. First Floor: Examine the T&G boarding and timber joists for signs of rot, insect infestation, or structural weakness. Check the woodwool slab ceilings for any signs of damage or deterioration.
3. Walls and Partitions: Inspect the internal walls and partitions for any signs of cracking, movement, or dampness. Pay particular attention to the separating wall between the semi-detached units.

Structural Frame

1. Steel Components: Check the condition of the RSJ stanchions, beams, and ties. Look for signs of corrosion, particularly in areas where the protective bituminous paint may have deteriorated. Ensure that all connections and joints are secure and free from damage.
2. Protective Coating: Inspect the bituminous paint coating for any signs of wear or damage. Reapply the coating as necessary to protect the steel components from corrosion.

Moisture and Dampness

1. Damp-Proof Course: Check the condition of the DPC and look for any signs of moisture ingress. Ensure that the DPC is intact and functioning correctly.
2. Internal Dampness: Use a moisture meter to check for dampness in the walls, floors, and ceilings. Look for signs of mould or mildew, which can indicate ongoing moisture issues.

Typical Defects and Maintenance Tips

Common Defects

1. Corrosion of Steel Components: Over time, the steel frame components can corrode, particularly if the protective coating has deteriorated. Regular inspections and maintenance of the protective coating can help prevent this issue.
2. Dampness and Mould: Moisture ingress can lead to dampness and mould, which can affect both the structural elements and the health of the occupants. Ensure that the DPC is intact and address any sources of moisture promptly.
3. Cracking and Movement: Cracks in the brickwork or internal walls can indicate structural movement or settlement. Monitor any cracks and seek professional advice if they appear to be worsening.

Maintenance Tips

1. Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the property to identify and address any potential issues promptly. This can help prevent minor problems from becoming major concerns.
2. Protective Coating Maintenance: Ensure that the bituminous paint coating on the steel components is maintained in good condition. Reapply the coating as necessary to protect against corrosion.
3. Moisture Control: Address any sources of moisture promptly to prevent dampness and mould. Ensure that the DPC is intact and functioning correctly, and consider installing additional moisture barriers if necessary.
4. Insulation and Energy Efficiency: Consider retrofitting insulation and upgrading windows to improve the energy efficiency of the property. This can help reduce heating costs and create a more comfortable living environment.

Conclusion

The New Georgian house is a unique and charming architectural style that combines traditional Georgian aesthetics with modern construction techniques. While these homes are rare, their distinctive features and historical significance make them highly desirable among property enthusiasts and investors. By understanding the typical characteristics, potential hazards, and maintenance requirements of these properties, you can make informed decisions and ensure the long-term preservation and value of your investment.

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.

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