Abigail’s APC Journey: A Building Surveyor’s Diary

Unsupported Bay Windows: A Survey Surprise

Today was a busy day on site. I assisted in a comprehensive survey of two adjoining Grade II-listed Georgian buildings. Under the guidance of company director Toby Rollestone, I gained valuable insights into the nuances of Georgian construction, logging my hours as part of my APC requirements.

One of the key takeaways from the survey was the common practice of unsupported bay windows in Georgian architecture. These windows are often not tied to the main building structure, with the windows becoming the support for the bay. If the windows decay, movement to the bay can occur, causing the bay to rotate and move out from the main elevation. This is often detected by examining for signs of distress higher up in the building.

Given Brighton’s numerous Regency bay windows and the harsh sea environment, it’s imperative to be vigilant about this issue. The combination of coastal erosion, salt-laden air, and years of meal-piece alterations and repairs raises the risk of decay in these structures.

Wrapping up this first entry, I’m excited about progressing towards becoming a Chartered Surveyor. Identifying unsupported bay windows has highlighted the importance of thorough observation and attention to detail. I’m looking forward to sharing more insights, challenges, and successes as I navigate the APC process. Join me in this journey through building surveying as we work towards achieving chartered status together.