module specification

In this module, you will develop a deep understanding of the building surveying processes involved in the refurbishment, adaptation, and retrofitting of buildings. This module will provide you with the knowledge and practical skills required to assess, manage, and deliver complex projects aimed at upgrading and enhancing the adaptation, use, energy performance, and sustainability of existing structures.

You will build on the core principles of Building Surveying and Building Pathology, focusing on techniques for assessing the condition of existing buildings. You will learn how to carry out and evaluate detailed surveys to identify structural defects, maintenance needs, and areas for improvement. These assessments will enable you to recommend effective solutions to enhance both the building’s performance and aesthetic appeal. Understanding the various challenges that come with working on existing buildings, including dealing with ageing materials and common building pathologies, will be crucial to your success in this module.

As you progress, you will examine the complexities of building adaptation and retrofit to meet current trends, drivers, and requirements. You will learn how to integrate digital technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and modern diagnostics into older buildings while addressing the unique constraints posed by heritage, planning regulations, and conservation requirements. You will also identify ways to address the climate and net-zero carbon agenda by exploring how to improve carbon performance through the use of renewable technologies, fabric energy efficiency, and low-carbon building materials.

Throughout the module, you will be introduced to key regulatory frameworks, including the Building Regulations, Local Planning requirements, and Conservation laws, which govern refurbishment and retrofit projects. You will also gain an understanding of the importance of balancing the preservation of historic buildings with the need to bring them up to modern standards, ensuring they remain functional, safe, and energy-efficient for the future.

Through industry engagement, you will engage with real-world case studies and site visits, which will allow you to critically analyse various building projects and apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. You will learn how to manage the risks associated with refurbishment projects, work with contractors, and understand the financial and environmental implications of various building interventions.

By the end of the module, you will be equipped with the skills to confidently contribute to refurbishment, adaptation, and retrofit projects. You will be prepared to handle the technical and regulatory challenges that come with upgrading existing buildings, with a strong focus on building pathology, sustainability, and energy efficiency, making you a valuable asset in the Building Surveying profession.

SU5052 Building Surveying Principles at L5

The module syllabus is informed by the course syllabus and reading materials alongside contemporary issues, research, and practice in Building Surveying. Topics will include:

• the role of Building Surveyor in refurbishment, adaptation, and retrofit projects (LO5)
• condition surveys and advanced diagnostic techniques to analyse building pathology in existing structures (LO1, LO2)
• identification of advanced defects, their underlying causes, and the necessary remedial actions (LO1, LO2)
• key approaches to the refurbishment of buildings, including enhancing use, functionality, aesthetics, and upgrading building service (LO3, LO4)
• understanding the regulatory framework, including Building Regulations, Health and Safety, Conservation and Planning law, and its impact on managing risks specific to refurbishment, adaptation, and retrofit projects. (LO4)
• key skills for adaptation and refurbishment projects, including budgeting, procurement, contractor management, and ensuring project delivery is on time and within budget. (LO1, 5)
• modern methods for retrofitting buildings to improve energy efficiency, incorporating renewable technologies, fabric improvements, and low-carbon materials (LO3, LO4)
• challenges and techniques for preserving and conserving historic structures and buildings while upgrading them to meet current standards (LO2, LO3, LO4)
• building diagnostics, drones and robotics, and data analytics in building surveying (LO6)
• AI/Digital Innovation and ethics in Building Surveying (LO4, LO5, LO6)

A blended and technology-enhanced learning approach will be employed in the delivery of this module. Students will engage in discussions on topical areas concerning sustainability in the Built Environment. Contact sessions will encourage students to discuss ideas and consider a variety of case studies from around the globe. Online content will provide students with a formal, structured framework within which to approach their research. Tasks will be performed through group and independent study to develop critical thinking skills of analysis, evaluation, and synthesis. Where appropriate, activities will be captured and made available to allow asynchronous access.

Case studies will be diverse in project type and seminars and workshops will include taking projects on a journey around the globe to use material that explores and develops students’ critical awareness of how different factors, such as availability of natural resources, social capital, globalisation and micro/macroeconomics, influence approaches to embracing, postponing, or ignoring the need for a sustainable built environment.

Throughout the module, student outputs will be reviewed and formative feedback will be given to ensure clarity and comprehension.

The learning and teaching in classes will be supported by the University’s VLE and a blended learning approach, sharing class materials, recommended reading, and case studies. Group tutorials will also be offered to support students in the preparation of their assessments, with opportunities to receive forward feedback.

The Building Surveying Practice module will significantly contribute to your Professional Development Journal (PDJ) by providing an opportunity to critically reflect on the application of surveying principles in real-world contexts. As you engage critically with advanced topics, such as innovative methods for building inspection, defect analysis, building retrofit, and refurbishment, you will have the opportunity to assess and reflect on your expanding understanding of professional practice within the Building Surveying field. This module will allow you to critically evaluate how these technical skills are applied in real-world scenarios and  help you identify areas for further development.
The reflective process will also enable you to strengthen your ability to navigate complex challenges in Building Surveying and enhance your professional growth in the industry. This reflective process will allow you to identify key areas of development, evaluate your decision-making processes, and link theoretical knowledge with practical experience. Ultimately, the module will support the continuous enhancement of your professional skills and inform your career trajectory within building surveying.

On completion of the module, the student, operating independently and applying their knowledge and skills, should be able to:

1. apply advanced principles of building pathology to investigate the condition of existing structures, identifying defects, maintenance needs, and areas for improvement.
2. appraise appropriate refurbishment and adaptation strategies that enhance the functionality, use, aesthetic appeal, and social value of buildings.
3. investigate a variety of energy efficient technologies and sustainable practices, and suggest ways to integrated them into building adaptation and retrofit projects
4. propose appropriate adaptation and retrofit solutions based on the relevant regulatory framework, Building Regulations, Conservation Laws, and planning permissions for a variety of building typologies.
5. investigate the role of Building Surveyors in managing refurbishment, adaptation and retrofitting projects, communication with clients and contractors, and budgets, as well as ensuring the timely delivery of projects to required standards.
6. explore the role of digital innovation and technological advancements in Building Surveying.

There is no single text currently in publication that provides a comprehensive coverage of all aspects of this module. There are several books which cover various parts of the module in some detail, and these are listed in the core reading list.

There is excellent coverage of the subject available via the Construction Information Service (CIS).  

CIS is accessed via Construction Information Service   and provides a huge range of information relevant to this module. You will be directed to the relevant resources during the course of the module.

Here is an indicative online reading list:
https://rl.talis.com/3/londonmet/lists/4E43D451-27EB-745D-54C4-478DB47982CC.html?lang=en-GB&login=1