Core Module Information
Module title: Conservation Surveying

SCQF level: 10:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: BSV10117
Module leader: Grant Sinclair
School School of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment
Subject area group: Built Environment
Prerequisites

There are no pre-requisites for this module to be added

Description of module content:

Conservation Surveyors are the experts in dealing with historic and older traditionally built structures, not only keeping buildings for our future, but organising the management of sympathetic repair strategies, using appropriate materials. Repair strategies – What happens when a critical part of the building fails? Correct repairs – They inform clients expectations, giving advice on specialist building defects, often with technical solutions that differ substantially to traditional new build construction. Client instructions – How do you ensure this meets their expectations? What are the materials used and how are they produced- architectural metalwork such as bespoke cast iron or bronze work to effect an artisan repair. How is the use of lime mortar such an essential part of stonework repair. -The damage that can be done by using inappropriate materials in Historic Buildings is well documented. Health and Safety – What are the regulatory requirements for a practicing surveyor when inspecting an Historic Building, several dangers can exist in old buildings.-Students must be aware of these such as the potential of falling masonry, lead piping, dangerous chemicals used in processes of repair and production of historic materials –By the end of this module, you will recognise Conservation Surveying as a specialised area in the profession that retains our built heritage for future generations.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Critically reflect on age styles and materials, including breathable buildings.

LO2: Categorise factors causing decay and deterioration.

LO3: Extract the core issues in the techniques and practice of conservation and maintenance.

LO4: Demonstrate sills in historic building conservation techniques and inspection processes.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2025/6, Trimester 2, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: MERCHISTON
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Grant Sinclair
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 30 Lectures deal with the basics of the subject and seek to convey the knowledge base to students. They cover old and historic buildings considering the percentage that fall into this category.
Online Guided independent study 170 Students are encouraged to read outside the teaching notes and have directed reading specified in the module study guide.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Report 50 1~2~3~4 Week 12 , WORDS= 3000 words A professional client report, analysing and making recommendations on specific topic(s) covered by the module.
Essay 50 1~2~3~4 Week 7 , WORDS= 2000 words The essay is an evaluation of a particular topic, providing evidence of research through reference to published sources, demonstrating analysis/critical appraisal of your findings.
Component 1 subtotal: 100
Component 2 subtotal: 0
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
BSV10117 Conservation Surveying