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Plastering & dry lining defects · UK-wide

An independent look at defective plastering and internal finishes.

Cracked ceilings, uneven skim coats or disputed plasterboard workmanship? We investigate accessible internal finishes through remote reviews, site inspections and clearly scoped technical reports.

Internal plastering and dry lining issues we review

A visible blemish does not, on its own, tell you whether the problem stems from application, movement, background preparation, moisture or another trade. We consider the finish alongside the construction and documented specification.

  • Cracks in skimmed walls, ceilings, corners and junctions
  • Loose, hollow, debonded or blown plaster
  • Uneven or visibly poor surface finish and localised defects
  • Plasterboard joints, joint treatment, beads and edge details
  • Float-and-set backgrounds, patch repairs and bonding concerns
  • Visible moisture staining or recurring damage needing further investigation

We can consider gypsum plaster, skim coats, traditional internal plastering and dry lining, subject to the agreed scope. Moisture sources, structural movement and concealed fixings may require separate specialist investigation.

How a plastering workmanship inspection works

We'll ask what work was carried out, when issues appeared and what finish was specified. A remote assessment can start with photographs, a video discussion and any records you already hold. If a visit is appropriate, we examine agreed accessible areas and document the relevant conditions.

Where applicable, our review can refer to project specifications, actual product instructions and relevant standards, with their scope and edition stated. We avoid inventing blanket tolerances or declaring every crack unacceptable.

A clear record for remedial work or a workmanship disagreement

A homeowner questioning a finish, or a contractor responding to a complaint, may benefit from the same independent process. A full report can set out inspected locations, photographs, measurements where taken, documentary sources, observations, possible causes, limits and recommended next steps.

The purpose is to clarify evidence, not to guarantee a preferred outcome. Responsibility and contractual remedies are separate matters, and a routine technical report is not automatically an expert witness report for court.

Common questions about plastering defects

Does a hairline crack mean plastering has failed?

Not necessarily. Crack pattern, changes over time, background movement, junction detailing and finish specification all affect the interpretation.

Can you review a complaint remotely?

Yes, a video call and supplied records may help identify visible issues and questions to investigate. A remote review cannot confirm concealed defects or substitute for measurements and examination on site.

Can you produce a written report for my builder?

A written technical report can be commissioned to an agreed scope for sharing with the relevant parties, with an independent opinion and clear limits to any findings.

See also external render defect inspections and EWI workmanship defects.

Independent evidence when it matters

Need an online survey, site inspection or full technical report?

Get independent advice on plastering, dry lining, rendering and EWI — from online surveys and nationwide site visits to detailed technical reports and second opinions.

Request an Inspection