Cameron House: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Inspecting This Unique Property Type

Understanding the Cameron House

The Cameron House, a distinctive property type, emerged during the early 1970s as part of the UK’s post-war housing boom. Manufactured by Donald Cameron Ltd, these homes were constructed between 1970 and 1973, with approximately 200 units built. Known alternatively as CDC or Donald Cameron houses, these properties are primarily found in urban and suburban areas across the UK. They are characterized by their 2- and 3-storey terraced designs, shallow pitch gable roofs, and a combination of brick and timber cladding.

Historical Context and Design

The Cameron House was designed to address the urgent need for affordable housing in the UK during the post-war period. The design incorporated innovative construction techniques that allowed for rapid assembly and cost-effective production. The houses were built using a platform frame construction method, which involved the use of storey-height timber frame panels. These panels were sheathed externally with bituminous fibreboard and overlaid with building paper, providing a durable and weather-resistant exterior.

Typical Characteristics and Features

Cameron Houses are easily identifiable by their shallow pitch gable roofs covered with concrete tiles. The external walls are primarily constructed of brick, with the front and rear upper storeys featuring horizontal timber boarding or coated fibreboard. A flat roof canopy is typically found above the front door, adding to the property’s unique aesthetic.

Construction Details

• Substructure: The foundation consists of concrete slab footings with a brick under-building and a damp-proof course (DPC) to prevent moisture ingress.
• External Walls: The platform frame construction features storey-height timber frame panels sheathed with bituminous fibreboard and building paper. The lower storey is clad with brick, while the upper storeys are clad with horizontal timber boarding or coated fibreboard.
• Separating Walls: These are constructed using 4 1/2″ blockwork, providing structural stability and sound insulation between properties.
• Partitions: Internal partitions are made of timber stud lined with plasterboard, offering flexibility in room layout and design.
• Floors: The ground floor is typically concrete, while the upper floors consist of plywood on timber joists, providing a sturdy and durable surface.
• Ceilings: Plasterboard is used for ceilings, offering a smooth and even finish.
• Roof: The roof structure comprises timber trusses, bituminous felt, and concrete tiles, with mineral fibre insulation at ceiling level to enhance thermal efficiency.

Common Defects and Hazards

While Cameron Houses offer a unique and affordable housing option, they are not without their challenges. Some common defects and hazards associated with these properties include:

• Sagging Upper Floors: Over time, the upper floors may exhibit sagging due to the natural settlement of the timber frame structure.
• Localised Decay: Building paper and horizontal timber board cladding may experience localised decay, particularly in areas exposed to moisture.
• Corrosion of Foil-Backing: The foil-backing on plasterboard linings can corrode, leading to potential structural and aesthetic issues.
• Lack of Fire Stops: The absence of fire stops in the external wall cavity at separating walls poses a significant fire risk, necessitating careful inspection and potential remediation.

Defective Premises Act Considerations

Under the Defective Premises Act, properties must be constructed in a manner that ensures they are fit for habitation. While Cameron Houses are not inherently classified as defective under this act, the presence of common defects and hazards may necessitate remedial action to ensure compliance. It is essential for prospective buyers and current owners to be aware of these issues and address them promptly to maintain the property’s safety and value.

Inspection Tips for Surveyors

When inspecting a Cameron House, surveyors should pay close attention to the following areas:

• Upper Floors: Check for signs of sagging or unevenness, which may indicate structural issues.
• Cladding and Building Paper: Inspect for signs of decay or damage, particularly in areas exposed to moisture.
• Plasterboard Linings: Look for signs of corrosion or deterioration in the foil-backing, which may compromise the property’s structural integrity.
• Fire Safety: Ensure that adequate fire stops are present in the external wall cavity at separating walls to mitigate fire risk.

Variants and Modifications

Some Cameron Houses feature variants in their construction, such as upper storey front and rear external walls clad with coated fibreboard instead of horizontal timber boarding. These modifications may impact the property’s aesthetic and structural characteristics, necessitating careful consideration during inspection and maintenance.

Maintenance and Upkeep

To ensure the longevity and safety of a Cameron House, regular maintenance and upkeep are essential. Homeowners should:

• Monitor Structural Integrity: Regularly inspect the property for signs of structural issues, such as sagging floors or cracks in the walls.
• Address Decay and Corrosion: Promptly address any signs of decay or corrosion in the cladding, building paper, or plasterboard linings to prevent further damage.
• Enhance Fire Safety: Consider installing additional fire stops or upgrading existing ones to enhance the property’s fire safety.
• Maintain Roof and Insulation: Regularly inspect the roof for signs of damage or wear and ensure that insulation is in good condition to maintain energy efficiency.

Conclusion

Cameron Houses offer a unique and affordable housing option for many UK residents. However, they come with their own set of challenges and considerations. By understanding the typical characteristics, common defects, and necessary maintenance, homeowners and prospective buyers can make informed decisions and ensure the safety and longevity of their investment.

At Flettons, we’re committed to safeguarding your investment. When considering a property purchase, trust our seasoned expertise to reveal any hidden threats. For a thorough building survey, get your instant quote through our quote calculator or reach out directly at 0203 691 0451. Your home’s safety is our top priority.