Overview
Easiform Type 1 houses were constructed between 1919 and 1928 in response to the significant housing shortage following the First World War. Built across urban and suburban locations throughout the UK, they formed part of an early programme aimed at delivering rapid and affordable housing.
Manufactured by J Laing Construction Ltd, these properties reflect early twentieth-century experimentation with in-situ concrete construction. Approximately 2,100 were built. They are also referred to as Easiform or Laing houses.
Construction period: 1919–1928
Manufacturer: J Laing Construction Ltd
Approximate number built: 2,100
Alternative names: Easiform houses, Laing houses
Typical characteristics & construction
Easiform Type 1 properties are found as bungalows and as two- and three-storey semi-detached and terraced houses. Roofs are generally medium pitched, either hipped or gabled, and covered in concrete tiles.
The substructure comprises concrete strip footings with damp-proof courses and weep holes incorporated to manage moisture. External walls are formed in 8-inch clinker aggregate concrete, commonly rendered externally. A timber wall plate supports the roof structure. Separating walls are also constructed in clinker concrete.
Ground floors are constructed in clinker concrete. Upper floors use breeze block construction with tongue-and-groove boarding laid on timber joists. Ceilings are plasterboard. Roof structures consist of timber rafters and purlins finished with concrete tiles.
| Element | Typical construction | Inspection focus |
|---|---|---|
| Substructure | Concrete strip footings with DPC and weep holes | Settlement, cracking, moisture bridging |
| External walls | 8-inch clinker aggregate concrete, often rendered | Cracking, render condition, moisture ingress, carbonation risk |
| Separating walls | Clinker concrete | Structural integrity, cracking patterns |
| Floors | Clinker concrete ground floor; breeze block and timber joisted upper floors with T&G boarding | Movement, deflection, timber condition |
| Roof | Timber rafters and purlins with concrete tile covering | Tile condition, timber decay, structural stability |
| Ceilings | Plasterboard | Cracking, detachment, moisture staining |
Potential hazards & inspection priorities
A recognised issue in Easiform Type 1 houses is the presence of unstable fractions of unburnt coal within the clinker aggregate. Over time, degradation of these inclusions can affect the integrity of the concrete.
Corrosion of any steel reinforcement within the concrete is a further risk, particularly where carbonation has reduced the alkalinity of the surrounding concrete or where persistent moisture exposure is present. Carbonation depths are therefore relevant when assessing long-term durability.
Cracking in concrete is commonly observed and may arise from shrinkage, thermal movement or structural loading. Moisture ingress, often associated with defective render, damp-proof course bridging or failed weep holes, can contribute to both concrete and timber deterioration.
Easiform Type 1 houses are not classified as defective under the Defective Premises Act. Nonetheless, thorough inspection remains essential to determine present condition.
Is this house right for you?
Purchasers should understand the implications of early twentieth-century clinker concrete construction and the importance of monitoring cracking, moisture control and any signs of reinforcement corrosion.
- Commission a detailed building survey
- Review evidence of past repairs or concrete treatment works
- Assess the ongoing maintenance of roof coverings and external render
Condition and maintenance history will significantly influence long-term performance.
Mortgage & resale considerations
Lender acceptance will depend on construction type, condition and the clarity of professional reporting. Evidence of significant cracking, moisture ingress or structural deterioration may require further investigation.
Clear documentation of condition and any remedial works undertaken can assist in supporting lending and future resale.
What a survey can — and cannot — tell you
A building survey provides an informed assessment of the visible condition and construction of an Easiform Type 1 house. Inspections are non-intrusive and limited to areas that are accessible at the time of inspection.
- Identify visible cracking to clinker concrete walls and associated render
- Assess signs of dampness, moisture ingress, and condensation risk
- Comment on roof coverings, drainage details, and external envelope condition
- Review the general condition of accessible floors, ceilings, and structural elements
- Highlight defects that may require repair, monitoring, or further investigation
However, there are limitations to what a survey can determine without intrusive investigation.
- Confirm the condition of concealed reinforcement within clinker concrete
- Assess hidden structural elements behind finishes or linings
- Determine the full extent of carbonation or internal concrete deterioration
- Inspect areas that are inaccessible or covered at the time of inspection
Where higher-risk indicators are identified, further specialist or intrusive investigation may be recommended.
For a thorough building survey in Greater London, an instant quotation can be obtained through the online survey calculator.
Considering a Easiform Type 1 house?
A detailed building survey can help clarify construction-specific risks before committing to a purchase.
Get your instant survey quoteDisclaimer: This article is provided for general educational purposes only and is based on industry research, professional knowledge, and experience. It does not relate to any specific property and should not be relied upon when making a purchasing decision. Prospective purchasers should always commission an independent RICS-qualified surveyor to conduct a full inspection and provide a report on the actual condition of any property of interest.