Cause and Remedy Report
A cause and remedy report format, essentially a Root Cause Analysis (RCA) report, is absolutely applicable for identifying and correcting problems and in fact, highly recommended for addressing issues with properties. In the context of property issues, the cause and remedy report helps you move beyond just seeing the problem (e.g. a damp patch) to finding out why that problem is occurring and how to fix it comprehensively without structural issues, subsidence or heave.
A classic example of this is the belief that cutting down a tree stops growth. Although a tree can be cut down to a stump, and whilst it may stop growing upwards, roots can continue to grow unseen under slabs and paving for years up to eight metres from a small tree stump. This undermines foundations lifting slabs and walls whilst causing costly damage to properties.
The images below from a recent project are roots from a tree stump cut down 9 years previous. Unfortunately for the owner they just continued to grow . With our Cause and Remedy report we were able to identify this issue and quickly resolve the problem putting our clients mind at ease prior to doing lots of unnecessary expensive works which would have had to be redone.
If you notice cracks in walls, sticking doors or windows, or floors sloping, RCA is crucial to determine if these are due to subsidence (sinking ground) or heave (expanding ground). RCA helps identify the specific soil type, the presence of problematic tree roots nearby, or inadequate foundations as the root cause.
Structural cracks:
While cosmetic cracks can be common, wider or patterned cracks can signify serious structural issues like settlement, wall tie corrosion, RCA can help distinguish between these and pinpoint the root cause for appropriate repair.
Drainage Problems:
Recurring leaks, slow drains, or blocked pipes can be effectively addressed with RCA. It can uncover underlying causes like root intrusion, pipe corrosion, or incorrect installation.
Gardening and Landscaping Issues:
Poor drainage, recurring plant diseases, or uneven patios in gardens might stem from problems with soil composition, improper irrigation systems, or underlying ground instability. RCA can help identify these root causes.
Understanding the root cause of the problem at an early stage can save you, reducing long term remedial costs and on future house evaluations – It’s a necessary saving for many.