Working for WR Dunn & Co Ltd. Ian was initially instructed to carry out a condition survey of the Grade II* Listed York Theatre Royal by York Conservation Trust after they acquired the property. The survey identified extensive failures in the roofing materials and rainwater goods which were leading to dampness throughout various areas of the theatre. This quickly led to the preparation of a specification for an extensive re-roofing programme, external repairs, Ian acting as lead designer and contract administrator for the external fabric works on site.

The works consisted of replacement of the slate and lead coverings to the Victorian pitched roofs and renewal of the flat roofs to the acclaimed 1967 extension, designed by renowned Modernist Architect, Patrick Gwynne. The contract also included upgrading of thermal and acoustic insulation and replacement of roof lights, including automated opening rooflights, lighting features and roof windows. On behalf of WR Dunn & Co., Ian acted as Conservation Surveyor and Contract Administrator.

Subsequently, Ian Smith Building Surveying & Conservation Ltd. has been instructed to carry out further phases of surveys and stonework repairs to the external fabric, initially in 2023 with future phases in 2024.