Well, a building survey covers the structural condition of the property due to factors like shrinkable clay sub soils and close trees, and as most local areas are deemed medium to high risk location, then we first need to determine are any sign of structural movement historic or progressive.
We then identify the defects, disrepair and lack of maintenance recorded from the site inspection, using a ladder, binoculars and surveyors equipment as deemed necessary.
We also comment on the heating, electrical installation and plumbing but not carry out tests, and check for items like dampness and timber decay. On a flat for example the common parts are also reported on as you would have a repairing obligation under the terms of the lease.
We will also inspect the roof void and drains providing there is access, and any out-buildings or garages, together with the grounds and boundaries are reported on. We also advise if any alterations carried out are in breach of planning or of the building regulations where noted, and comment on items like the fire separation, insulation levels and risk of noise transmission between dwellings.
The report also comments on local environmental issues and has a feasibility section for potential improvements e.g. cloakroom, extension or loft conversion.
An inspection is usually undertaken within two working days and the report is always in excess of thirty five A4 pages, and takes approx. five working days to prepare, although we will provide a verbal overview when inspected. We also make a number of enquirers after the inspection, and these findings together with a photographic schedule are included in the body of the report.
We are an established practice of local chartered surveyors and carry £1m Professional Indemnity insurance [claims free], are regulated by the RICS and are members of the Surveyors Ombudsman Service.
The fee for the survey on a property costing approx. £400,000 is £800 plus disbursements and VAT, and settlement of the account is only required prior to the release of the report. If you would like to discuss or have any questions you can contact us directly, or Peter Tasker on his mobile 07774 893780.
We do not do Homebuyers as they are not detailed survey reports but more of a proforma, and our surveys are always dictated from the site inspection with the enquiries added into the body of the report, together with the photographs. We also do not do valuations as we are chartered building surveyors, but comment on the purchase price within the survey report.
If we identify significant issues then our QS [Quantity Surveyor] could prepare budget costings on the repairs in a spread sheet format that you should be able to use in negotiations, as a separate instruction.
If you have been referred via an estate agent that there is no conflict of interest, as we work exclusively for you as the client, and never for the agent or lender.
We advise that you should not rely on any valuation of the property as being an overview of the condition, as a valuation is required by a lender, and as chartered building surveyors we do not carry out valuations, only surveys.
We also advise that survey reports do not make good bedtime reading, but at least you will know the condition of what you are buying and the budget costs needed to rectify matters..
If you are buying then let us provide you with a no obligation written quotation.