Residential Services

The General Building Survey (often referred to as the Structural Survey or a Type 3 Survey) is the most detailed Survey type available and is generally recommended for properties pre 1950 or any properties, which have been extended or significantly altered. A more detailed form of Survey would also be recommended for properties of significant value in excess of £350,000.00.

Our external inspection will examine and report on Chimney Stacks (both exposed and within accessible roof voids), Roof Coverings to all building sections, Soffits and Facias, Gutters and Downpipes. A detailed examination of all External Walls (including details of any Damp Proof Course and Supports to Structural Openings) is undertaken to determine evidence of any recent / historic settlement or subsidence relating to foundation movement. Windows, Doors and any other External Timbers will be examined and comment provided.

Internally the Survey provides detailed comment on the Roof Void (where access is available) to inspect the Roof Structure, extent of Insulation and evidence of rot / insect infestation. Internal Floors, Partitions and all other internal aspects of the structure will be examined and reported upon in detail. A Perimeter Damp Test is carried out to all accessible ground floor areas. A brief review of Electrical, Gas and other services will also be provided.

Within our Survey we will also provide comment on the General Site identifying any visually apparent problems with the Boundaries (such as mature trees) that may represent a threat to the stability of the Building Structure. We also inspect garages, outbuildings and boundary / retaining walls.

Our General Building Survey Reports also include indicative costings relating to the rectification of any Building Defects identified, a Photographic Appendix cross referenced within the report, a Market Valuation and Building Reinstatement cost for insurance purposes.

The Homebuyer Survey (often referred to as a Type 2 Survey) was designed by RICS and is a briefer version of the Building Survey, but more detailed than a mortgage valuation (which simply checks the building is worth the amount you are asking to borrow for it).

Homebuyer Surveys are generally only suitable for more modern homes that are considered to be in generally good condition. If the property is old or dilapidated, it will require a more detailed and thorough Building Survey.

The Homebuyer Survey will detect if a serious problem is uncovered during the survey. As problems are rated in terms of seriousness on the report, this will provide you with a good idea of how much work needs to be done on the property and which issues are most urgent.

For insurance purposes, the surveyor’s valuation will give an opinion of the market value of the property and reinstatement cost, which your insurance company may need to know.

The Homebuyer Survey Includes:

● An inspection of the major indoor features like ceilings, roof, walls, floors, bathrooms and woodwork.

● An inspection of permanent outdoor buildings and the outside of the home including roofing, pipes and gutters, walls, windows and outside doors.

● The report rates the main areas in terms of condition 1, 2 & 3; a rating of 3 means the area is in need of urgent repair and rating 1 means no action is needed.

● An inspection of the visible parts of the heating and drainage systems as well as the electric, gas / oil and water services.

● The report will identify areas that you will need to consult a legal advisor to investigate further.

At some juncture during the process of purchasing a property, you may have been made aware of a specific issue or defect. This will most likely have been after a Valuation Survey undertaken on behalf of the lender and the investigation of such an issue may often be a condition / requirement of obtaining a mortgage. Alternatively you may have identified the defect yourself on a property that you already own and you want the issue to be professionally investigated. Either way, it can be beneficial [or necessary] to have a Specific Defect Inspection carried out on your behalf.

What do Specific Defect Reports Cover?

These detailed reports, which usually relate to a specific individual defect or a particular problem that has been observed in a property, offer a full diagnostic survey and defect appraisal based on the observations. The Defect Report also provides recommendations for the appropriate remedial action.

Typically such surveys could cover a serious structural defect such as cracked or bulged walls, sagging and uneven roofs, or dampness problems.
These surveys are suitable for all types of property including residential and commercial buildings.