CROSS Safety Report
Domestic canopy degradation
Overview
A front entrance canopy to a domestic dwelling had to be temporarily propped following movement of the canopy.
Key Learning Outcomes
For homeowners:
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Regular inspections and maintenance of your property can help keep the property safe before it deteriorates and requires costly repairs
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If you are concerned with the structural integrity of your property, consider having it inspected by a suitably qualified and experienced engineer
Full Report
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The Full Report below has been submitted to CROSS and describes the reporter’s experience. The text has been edited for clarity and to ensure anonymity and confidentiality by removing any identifiable details. If you would like to know more about our secure reporting process or submit a report yourself, please visit the reporting to CROSS-UK page.
A reporter was called to look at an entrance canopy in a neighbour's house. The house is Edwardian and has a substantial clay-tiled canopy over sailing the front door. The supports are a wooden frame which acts as a cantilever. The whole canopy weight is carried on a lower small corbel whilst the tension restraint at the frame top is simply achieved by part of the wooden beam being embedded in the wall. There were no fixings at the top flashing line.
As can be seen from Figure 1, the frame is starting to pull away from the wall and is in danger of collapsing. It had to be propped immediately. Similar failings were observed in neighbouring properties. The reporter states that the lesson is to keep an eye open for signs of movement and investigate if there are concerns. Building longevity is no proof of ongoing safety.
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