Principles of Diagnosis

• In building diagnosis , it is important to

1. Identify the various symptoms .
2. Identify the potential causes of defects
3. Identify the diagnosis method

Causes Vs. Causes : defects are often caused by a combination of factors & seldom by a single factor .

The investigation required for the diagnosis of the causes of a building defect has to be carried out thoroughly & systematically . Some information to be noted include :

1. A list of the potential causes of a defect would be useful as a reference point to return to when unexplained symtoms are found or a diagnosis is challenge .
2. Diagnosis must be done step-by-step in a methodical manner . It is essential to recognize that event the most obvious diagnosis may still lead to the wrong conclusions because the symtoms , the investigation & the original assumption of potential causes may all be incomplete .
3. In reality , defects are often caused by a combination of factors & seldom by a single factors . Some of these factors on their own may not require remedial work , but where they are attacing the material in combination , may need urgent attention .
4. Sometimes the cost involved in determining all the possible causes of a defect may not be justified or various reasons . In this case , it may be more prudent to embark on a replacement of the damaged material than try to find  out all the possible causes .

 - Inadequate or wrong infromation , inaccurate ' as -built ' drawings & outdated records could all mislead the investigator into the wrong diagnosis of a certain defect .