Call in the Experts For Property Problems Says Trade Body

Sept. 20, 2010 - PRLog -- The Property Care Association (PCA), the trade body representing the UK’s structural repair, damp proofing, timber preservation, structural waterproofing and flood remediation experts, is concerned that in an attempt to save money, homeowners are trying to diagnose and put right property problems themselves.

However, Stephen Hodgson, general manager of the PCA is stressing the importance of calling in the specialists.

Stephen, who was one of the experts in the recent Channel 4 show ‘Help My House Is Falling Down,’ fronted by Sarah Beeny, said: “It is essential that any possible problems with damp, timber infestation or property structure are properly investigated and treated.  It is a false economy for homeowners to try and save money by attempting to diagnose and undertake the work themselves.

“Incorrect diagnosis can result in inappropriate and sometimes costly treatments being used, which may not cure the problem and could even result in damage to the property and further expense in trying to put things right.  

“For instance, there are many different causes of damp which are similar in appearance, but it takes an experienced surveyor – with a detailed understanding of diagnostic techniques – to be able to determine the exact cause and subsequently the correct treatment for a dampness problem.  This could be anything from simply repairing broken guttering, to having a full damp course fitted.

“When considering any work that could affect a property structurally then it is essential that homeowners call in the experts.  

“All PCA members are carefully vetted before being awarded membership and must be qualified in their specialist areas.  

“For added peace of mind all PCA members are insured and committed to honouring their guarantees – many offer additional long-term guarantee insurance.

“In addition the PCA is a member of TrustMark, the scheme supported by Government to help property owners find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make home improvements.”

Find out more about the Property Care Association at www.property-care.org or call 0844 3754301.


ENDS

Notes To Editors

Noted for its training and technical expertise, The Property Care Association (PCA) represents the UK’s structural waterproofing, wood preservation, damp-proofing, flood remediation and structural repair sectors.

It incorporates the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA), which has been in formation for more than 75 years.

The PCA is a member of TrustMark the scheme supported by the Government, to help property owners find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make home improvements.

Its contractor members are all carefully vetted before being awarded membership - and are then subject to rigorous auditing procedures once admitted to the Association.

As well as delivering a trusted repair procedure, PCA members are able to carry out specialist surveys as part of the house-buying procedure  to identify potential problems – as well as a range of other services  designed to preserve and protect homes and buildings across the UK.

To find a PCA member log on to http://www.property-care.org and select the ‘Find A Member’ service.

Press release issued by Lis Foster of Shepherd PR Limited, on behalf of the Property Care Association, telephone 01538 308685, mobile 07985 129315.