How objects are examined
Enquiry, preliminary assessment, agreement on the method, examination and result.
Work stages
- Initial inquiry
Describe the object, its provenance, condition and the questions; send photographs and documents relevant to the task.
- Preliminary assessment
Preservation, sufficiency and feasibility of examination using the available materials are checked.
- Agreeing on the assignment
The questions, methods, type of result, timeframes, cost and need for specialist examinations are determined.
- Transfer of the object
Where necessary, the lawful basis for transfer, packaging, transport, safety and storage are agreed.
- Examination
The object and documents are examined within the agreed scope of expertise.
- Result
The opinion, review or consultation is delivered by the agreed method.
- Return
Remaining objects and originals are returned under the terms of the Order Invoice.
Special arrangements
Do not send physical samples without prior agreement. Acceptance and storage procedures for unstable, hazardous and regulated objects are determined separately. A forensic examination is appointed under established procedural rules.
Discuss examination of the object
Describe the task and questions that need to be answered. Provide contact details for a reply; the terms of the particular service are agreed separately.