Investigation for defect or deteioration

• Only defects can support a claim or dispute , in the sense that deterioration is a natural process which is to be expected .
• When deterioration is observed it must be established whether it is occurring unexpectedly rapidly through some error or omission in specification or construction , or through inadequate maintenance or through a defect .
• Damp stains on ceilings beneath the roof will suggest failure of the felt covering . THis failure may be due to natural deterioration , such as loss of volatile components causeing brittleness & cracking of the felt .
• The resultant leaks are then attributable to neglect to maintain the roof properly by replacing the felt at appropriate intervals . 
• All building materials deterioration , but they are only defective if they deteriorate more rapidly than expected .