About us
About TJ Properties
TJ Properties provides property inspections, building pathology and diagnostic advice, with a separate buyer-representation service. Led by Thomas Jennings: more than 40 years in construction, over 9 years inspecting in Portugal, and 2,500 inspections completed.
Who we are
Thomas Jennings
TJ Properties is led by Thomas Jennings, who brings more than forty years of hands-on construction experience to every inspection.
Practical construction experience helps us interpret the defects we observe, consider how different building elements interact and explain realistic repair options. We combine that experience with a systematic inspection and relevant measurements, stating clearly when further investigation is needed.
Most of what an inspection finds is ordinary. The value is in recognising the proportion that is not, understanding what it is likely to mean, and setting out what should happen next.
Experience in Portugal
Experience with Portuguese buildings
Portuguese properties vary considerably in age, materials, exposure and construction method. We assess the building in front of us rather than assume it follows a single model.
Relevant concerns may include moisture, older masonry, concrete deterioration, terrace waterproofing and alterations to the original building. Which of these matter, and how much, depends entirely on the property.
Where records or specialist advice are needed, we identify that separately from the physical inspection. Questions of approval, registration and title are documentary matters for the appropriate professionals rather than things an inspection can settle.
How we work
How we work for you
Our inspection findings are prepared for the client and based on the evidence available at the property.
Buyer representation is a separate service with its own agreed scope and terms.
Our role is to explain the findings and their implications so that you can make an informed decision. We do not carry out the repairs we recommend, and the report sets out what was observed rather than what would be convenient.
How we work
What you actually get
Our process is straightforward: agree the scope and fee, inspect the property, prepare the report and discuss the findings.
Scope and quotation
Send the address, listing link or a description of your concern. We confirm the inspection scope, fee, travel allowance and expected timetable before you book. Additional work is agreed separately.
The inspection
The expected visit duration and testing scope are confirmed in the quotation, and depend on the property’s size, condition, access and the agreed scope. We bring the diagnostic equipment the property calls for.
Your written inspection report
For the issues identified within the agreed scope, the report records the observations, likely causes, significance and recommended next steps, with indicative repair costs where appropriate. We agree the reporting timetable with you when we quote.
Follow-up discussion
We are available after you receive the report to talk the findings through. Most clients have questions, and the answers are often what turns a document into a decision.
Who we work for
International buyers and owners
Most of our clients are buying, building, renovating or maintaining property in Portugal, frequently from a considerable distance, and many of them are working in English rather than Portuguese.
We can inspect on behalf of clients who cannot attend and explain the report afterwards. Tell us your purchase or travel deadline when you enquire so that we can confirm a suitable timetable. A live walkthrough can be discussed in advance where practical.
We also work for solicitors and legal representatives acting for buyers, who need a technical opinion their client can rely on before contracts are signed.
Coverage
Portugal, Madeira, the Azores and Europe
We carry out inspections across mainland Portugal — the Algarve, Lisbon and the surrounding districts, the Silver Coast, Porto and the north, and the central interior — as well as Madeira and the Azores, and elsewhere in Europe.
Availability depends on the location, travel arrangements and inspection scope. We confirm feasibility and include any agreed travel costs in the quotation, so tell us where the property is and we will let you know what is workable.
Tell us about the property
Send the address, the listing link or a short description of your concern. We will confirm the scope and provide a quotation.