Overview
The Cussins house is a form of post-war, non-traditional housing developed in response to the acute housing shortage following the Second World War. These properties were manufactured by Cussins Ltd and constructed over a short period between 1945 and 1946.
Approximately 3,500 Cussins houses were built, predominantly within urban and suburban locations across the UK. They are also known under alternative names including Cornes, Cornes Cussins, and Cussins Cornes, reflecting variations in layout and construction detail.
Cussins houses are generally two-storey semi-detached dwellings of steel-framed and precast concrete construction, designed for rapid assembly during the immediate post-war period.
Typical characteristics & construction
Cussins houses are typically two-storey semi-detached properties with medium-pitch gable roofs. Roof coverings are usually clay pantiles or interlocking concrete tiles. A flat canopy over the front entrance and a single-storey brick outhouse attached to the gable wall are common identifying features.
External walls are formed using clay-slip-faced PRC panels in an unbonded pattern, rendered PRC panels, or brickwork throughout, depending on the specific variant. Window sizes often vary, contributing to an irregular external appearance.
| Element | Typical construction | Inspection focus |
|---|---|---|
| Substructure | Concrete strip footings with brick-faced RC edge beam | Settlement, cracking, DPC effectiveness |
| Main frame | RSC stanchions and RSJ beams with Kariscol joints | Corrosion, particularly at bases and below DPC |
| External walls | PRC panels with clay slips or render; some brick variants | Panel movement, cracking, reinforcement corrosion |
| Floors | Asphalt on concrete ground floor; T&G boarding on timber joists above | Dampness, timber condition, structural movement |
| Roof | Timber rafters with felt and tiled covering | Tile condition, felt integrity, timber decay |
Potential hazards & inspection priorities
The most significant risks in Cussins houses relate to corrosion of steel components and deterioration of PRC panels. Minor corrosion is commonly found to RSC stanchions, particularly at ground level and below the damp-proof course. RSJ ground floor beams and secondary framing may also show superficial corrosion.
Displacement of PRC panels, cracking at panel joints, brickwork cracking, and detachment of render are all regularly encountered. Moisture ingress and dampness remain ongoing concerns, particularly where original damp-proofing measures have deteriorated.
Is this house right for you?
Cussins houses require an informed approach due to their non-traditional construction. Understanding the implications of steel framing, PRC panels, and age-related deterioration is essential when assessing suitability.
- Full inspection of the steel frame and PRC panels is critical
- Ongoing maintenance should be anticipated
- Condition varies significantly between individual properties
Mortgage & resale considerations
Mortgage acceptance for Cussins houses depends on construction type, current condition, and the clarity of professional reporting. Requirements can vary between lenders and may change over time.
Clear evidence of condition, documented repairs, and the absence of unresolved structural or corrosion-related defects are commonly influential factors.
What a survey can — and cannot — tell you
A building survey provides an informed assessment of the visible condition and construction of a Cussins house. Inspections are non-intrusive and limited to areas that are accessible at the time of inspection.
- Identify visible corrosion to steel framing and associated components
- Assess cracking, movement, and condition of PRC panels and finishes
- Comment on roof coverings, drainage details, and external envelope condition
- Review the general condition of accessible floors, ceilings, and structural elements
- Highlight defects requiring repair, monitoring, or further investigation
However, there are limitations to what a survey can determine without intrusive investigation.
- Confirm the condition of concealed steel reinforcement
- Assess hidden structural elements behind finishes or linings
- Determine the full extent of internal corrosion within PRC panels
- Inspect areas that are inaccessible 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 Cussins 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.
