EWI defects: what to record before commissioning an inspection.

A close-up crack photograph rarely shows enough context. Start with the complete elevation, followed by mid-range and close-up photographs. Label the location: for example, “rear wall, first-floor window, right reveal”. Record when the problem was first noticed, any change since then and whether work or repairs have already taken place.

• Cracks, blistering, detachment, staining and uneven surface finishes
• Window heads, sills and reveals, including visible sealant and adjoining components
• Plinths, base tracks and the point where the EWI system finishes near ground level
• Parapets, roof edges, movement joints, service penetrations and other interfaces
• Wide-angle photographs that show how each defect relates to openings and corners

Keep original photographs with their dates where possible. Only measure crack widths or other details if safe, practical and within your competence; never describe an estimated measurement as a verified one.

External wall insulation is made up of multiple compatible components. Requirements depend on the system manufacturer, substrate, insulation type, reinforcement, finishing layers and junction design. Avoid assuming a generic internet detail applies to your building.

• Quotation, order, scope of works and installation or completion dates
• System manufacturer, product names and insulation type, if known
• Drawings and the project-specific EWI specification or detail sheets
• Relevant manufacturer installation guidance, including its applicable version
• Progress photographs of insulation boards, fixings, reinforcement and junctions
• Previous defect reports, written complaints and any proposed remedial specification

If you cannot identify the system, say so. An inspector can explain which documents are missing and what further checks may be proportionate. Our EWI specification review service focuses on comparing available project documents with defined technical questions.

Apparent cracking or a leaking junction might involve movement, weathering, substrate conditions, detailing, workmanship or more than one factor. Visual appearance alone cannot reliably distinguish these explanations.

• Which areas are affected and do defects repeat in the same type of junction?
• What was the original installation detail for openings and terminations?
• Do site photographs and documents identify any changes to the proposed system?
• Would safe access, monitoring or targeted specialist investigation be needed?
• Which observations are confirmed, and which remain hypotheses?

An independent inspection should separate observations, source documents, possible explanations, evidence gaps and next steps. Avoid signing off extensive remedial work from a single photograph or a broad diagnosis.

A scoped site visit may document safely accessible finish conditions, visible junction details, measurements where practicable and comparisons with identified drawings or manufacturer's instructions. A remote review may help identify questions from photographs and supplied records but is not the same as opening-up or testing the wall.

Concealed anchors, fire barriers, system build-up, structural behaviour and fire performance cannot be certified from an external visual review. These may require a separately appointed specialist and an agreed method of investigation. An ordinary workmanship report is also not automatically a court-compliant expert-witness report.

Start with a short description, the town or postcode, the installation age and the main questions you need answered. Sensitive technical files, personal information and potentially disputed evidence can be shared using a suitable private method after the initial enquiry and conflict check.

For an example of how evidence and limitations can be recorded, see our fictional sample technical report. Final Measure is Essex-based and offers suitable UK-wide site visits by arrangement, with travel, inspection scope and fees agreed in advance.