DeckMark QA scheme - Deck inspection and expert witness services

The Timber Decking Association (TDA) is the UK's leading authority on the design and installation of decks and other landscape structures in wood. Technical information and guidelines published by the TDA are widely adopted and specified both in the private and commercial sectors and the Association is recognised as the most reliable and authoritative source of expert opinion in the UK. The DeckMarkTM quality assurance scheme and 10-year insurance backed warranty operated by the TDA are the benchmark of good practice in the industry and are endorsed by the NHBC, the principal new homes insurance and standards setting body.

The TDA has well-established procedures in place for assessing the quality of the products and installers registered under the DeckMarkTM scheme. Building on these procedures, the TDA is now able to offer an independent deck inspection and consultation service for private home owners, property developers, architects, surveyors and structural engineers who may require independent expert opinion about a structure and materials used. The TDA also provides an Expert Witness Service when inspection and reports are commissioned by a Solicitor acting on behalf of clients.

The TDA inspection and report service is available for:

• Assessing the structural integrity and construction techniques of existing decks
• General condition surveys and maintenance reviews
• Assessing material faults and possible causes on site
• Advising on correct material specification and good practice standards

Written reports are supported with photographic evidence where appropriate.

Expert witness service
We offer Solicitors an Expert Witness Service based on the TDA's position as the independent authority on design, materials suitability, installation, engineering and structural integrity of decks in the UK. This service is an extension of our Inspection and Report Service and provides Solicitors involved in a claim to call upon independent timber experts to provide objective, unbiased opinion in accordance with Civil Procedure Rules.

Fees
The fee for the TDA Deck Inspection Service is calculated on a time basis with a charge of £100 + VAT per hour for time on site and report preparation. The average report takes between 3 and 4 hours to complete and you will be given a formal quotation for the total cost, including travelling, when you register for this service. A 50% payment is required in advance at the time the quotation is accepted by you. Travelling expenses are also charged and these will be quoted separately for each individual case.

The fee for the Expert Witness Service is £750 + VAT for the initial site visit and report. Any additional days, or part thereof, required by the commissioning Solicitor or by any Court subsequently involved, is charged at a pro rata fee of £750 + VAT per day.

To arrange an inspection visit please complete the attached form.

Please click here to download an application form.