Here are some frequently asked questions about residential surveys:
The purpose of a residential survey is to investigate a property, inform you of the condition of the building, and highlight any major concerns that might affect the value of the property. This helps minimise risk and provide peace of mind.
No, a survey is not legally required, but it can provide valuable information and advice. The money you spend on the survey can save you thousands of pounds, making it a very worthwhile investment.
Surveyors look for issues that might affect the property’s structural integrity, such as subsidence, dampness, and structural issues.
Surveyors may ask questions about recent improvements, certification (gas test for example) and insurance claims history.
If the survey identifies issues that are of significant concern, you may decide to negotiate a price reduction to address costs to repair defects or even reconsider your purchase and pull out of the sale. You may find it helpful to discuss any concerns with your surveyor.
A surveyor will visually inspect the property for damp. They may use a damp meter – a non-invasive method of measuring damp. If there are concerns about damp you may require a separate Damp Survey.
A Full Buildings Survey is ideal if you have plans to extend or undertake alterations to the property. The in-depth nature of the survey allows the surveyor to offer advice relating to future alterations. You should let your surveyor know in advance if you do have plans to extend or undertake alterations to the property.
A surveyor will enter the roof space and visually inspect the structure so long as it is safe to do so. Attention is usually given to those parts that are vulnerable to deterioration and damage. The surveyor should not be expected to move or lift insulation material, stored goods, or other contents to carry out the inspection. In a RICS level 3 survey, although insulation material should not be moved, small corners of thermal insulation should be lifted to identify its thickness and type, and the nature of the ceiling underneath – so long as the surveyor considers it safe to do so.
The extent of our inspection on drainage systems varies depending on the service you choose.
A Major Defects Survey is a report bespoke to the property that pinpoints and provides insight into major defects as well as potential maintenance issues, remedies, and associated timescales and an estimated budget for repairs.
A Major Defects Survey is suitable for properties of all ages.
A Major Defects Survey (RICS level 3) includes;
A Full Building Survey covers both major and minor defects, potential maintenance issues, remedies, associated timescales, and an estimated budget for repairs. It includes a thorough description and analysis of the construction of the property as well as decorations, internal fixtures and fittings, and detached outbuildings. Energy efficiency improvement advice is also included. A Full Building Survey is particularly suitable when purchasing an older property, rural building, large dwelling, or listed building with complex requirements.
A Full Buildings Survey (RICS level 3) includes;
For most people buying a home is the largest investment they will ever make. It is vitally important to know whether the property has any issues that might affect its value. The purpose of a survey is to investigate the property, inform you of the condition of the building, and highlight any major concerns to minimise risk and provide peace of mind.
A structural survey is the old terminology for a building survey.
We email your completed report within 2-3 working days following the inspection. It’s a quick and easy process, ensuring you get the information you need without any hassle.
Even new builds can have defects, which a Snagging Survey can identify, ensuring the developer addresses them before you move in.
A valuation is not automatically included in a residential survey; however, it can usually be included as an additional service. A valuation can help ensure a property is appropriately priced.
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