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Surveyor variability has a significant impact on the accuracy and reliability of house condition surveys. Reports on one particular cognitive bias that surveyors may use when undertaking house condition surveys – the confirmation bias. Two experiments are conducted to investigate the confirmation bias. The experiments seem to indicate that the confirmation bias does have the potential to have an impact on condition survey decision making and therefore to contribute to surveyor variability. Methods of dealing with the bias are discussed; particularly the potential application of expert systems alongside hand‐held data‐capture devices.

Describes a case study that applies the principles of “a proposed quantitative model for building repair and maintenance” developed in theory by Alani et al. The proposed model relies on the relationship between the number of defects and time where the collection of the number of defects data has been made using a condition based survey and specifically developed survey form. Using established declining balance depreciation methods a close correlation between the models cost/time and quality/time curves has been determined. Applies the proposed coded system of observing, assessing, recording and appraising the condition of the elements of a large residential building and calculates the cost of repairing and maintaining (at a pre‐determined condition) the elements of that specific building.

This paper arises from findings which emerged during the preparation of the Good Practice Guide to Maintenance Cost Forecasting. This Guide was commissioned by the Housing Corporation to assist Registered Social Landlords forecast the future maintenance costs of their stocks. It became apparent during the work that client experiences of stock condition surveys had been far from satisfactory. The surveys had often been carried out by professional surveyors and yet many had fundamental weaknesses in their specification, execution and use of data. The level of dissatisfaction expressed, coupled with recent evidence regarding the quality of domestic building surveys, should give cause for concern to the surveying profession. The paper identifies some causes of this dissatisfaction and suggests lessons that can be drawn from the experience. Further investigation is recommended into this crucial area of practice.

The importance of survey data accuracy is paramount if school maintenance programs are to be a true reflection of the maintenance needs of that school. Previous research has identified the issue of surveyor variability, i.e. the situation where two or more surveyors, surveying the same building, arrive at very different survey decisions. The research presented in this paper reports on social judgement theory – a model of a surveyor’s judgements where the varying values of surveyors, in terms of the “importance” they give to building elements, can be elicited by using the regression formula. The results of the research can be used to normalise survey data in an attempt to make them more truly reflect the actual condition of a school. The results can also be used to assess training requirements for individual surveyors.

Summarizes a number of recurring issues which have arisen during a recent series of structural surveys of public houses undertaken by the authors. Provides a background to the ownership structure of public houses and explains how the ownership has traditionally resulted in a low level of investment in the maintenance of public house properties. Explores the several structural problems which appear to be inherent in public house properties and suggests full site and soil investigation should be undertaken before expenditure on repair and refurbishment.

Analyses the effect of changes in the brewing industry on the work of property managers, particularly the increased number of diverse property interests generated. Considers immediate opportunities to lie in strategic planning and management of national estates; management of multiple freehold and leasehold estates; professional advice for independent pub operators. Concludes that property managers who are aware of brewing industry changes can plan strategies to ensure they meet new demands.

Surveyor variability has been previously identified as a barrier to the consistency and usability of house condition survey data. This paper explores the use of social judgement theory (SJT) as a potential method to account for, and reduce the impact of, surveyor variability. The study followed the principles of SJT first proposed by Egon Brunswik. The results of the study indicate that the SJT method does have the potential to aid understanding of the survey judgement policy of individual surveyors in terms of the importance they give to building elements and the underlying focus, or theme, of a survey. Knowledge of this policy could be utilised in house condition surveys by recalibration of survey results to take account of a surveyor’s policy. In addition, training requirements for individual surveyors could be identified.

The Portsmouth smart homes project sought to identify appropriate technology to create energy efficient accommodation that supports the occupants in achieving a more independent life than would normally be possible due to their physical disabilities. A consultation process was initiated. This began with focus groups in three different parts of Hampshire. These were followed by in‐depth interviews to ascertain how “smart” technology might enhance independence, quality of life, security and affordability. The consultation process and a technology review informed a number of design exercises culminating in the design of six properties in Portsmouth due to be occupied in April 2002, and monitored through the following summer and winter. Three of these units will accommodate wheelchair users. Internal and external doors, locks and all windows will be motorised. The smart system will be programmed to operate heating, lighting, and household appliances, to a pre‐determined plan, which can be overridden by the resident. The sensors and devices share data in order to act, react and interact in an appropriate way. Disabled people consulted report positive attitudes to smart homes. They want a home that can respond to emergencies and environmental changes. Potential occupants also express the wish to be able to counter automated controls. A majority also express preference for homes that will not stand out from neighbouring properties.

The purpose of this chapter is to critically analyze the historical relations between Black students and the American education system. In particular, this chapter is designed to challenge the status quo and examine the ways in which the K-12 educators today can mind the margins and remedy oppressive approaches to academically preparing and supporting Black students. Persistent informal educational tracking practices, an influx of education programs designed to segregate students, and educator biases all raise critical questions that must be addressed concerning educational equity for Black students.