Category: Building Surveys

Asbestos materials were used for many years in buildings and theoretically could be present anywhere, although in the recent decades they have been phased out. In many cases, such as in the pre-80s Artex ceilings, these do not present a high risk unless tampered with. The report, however, will advise as to whether the asbestos …

The report mentions that there may be asbestos materials present. What should I do? Read More »

The surveys are non-invasive. So, given that the walls will not be opened up, the surveyor may not be able to confirm the extent of a particular defect. This may occur in particular with floor damp as fitted floor coverings would prevent the surveyor from being able to inspect the area further. On these occasions, …

The report highlights dampness. What are my next steps? Read More »

Your surveyor will be more than happy to give any issues you may have concerns about the extra attention it needs. They can then advise in the report if they believe this to be a significant defect and whether any remedial works are required.

The report is sent out to the client only. The client can then decide to send the report or its findings to their solicitor. If serious previously unknown issues are uncovered, we find clients may, at times, use this information to ask the sellers to reduce the price accordingly. This would, of course, be dependent …

Does anyone else receive a copy of my report? Read More »

You would not buy a car without inspecting it physically and checking the service history. This is similar for properties; the difference being is that this is potentially the biggest investment of a lifetime. It would be of immeasurable benefit to know what issues may occur in the short and long term and have a …

I have already had a Mortgage Valuation. Is there any point of having a further survey done? Read More »

Surveyors on our panel aim for a 2-3 day turnaround from the date of the site visit, but if a highlighted issue is found, further investigations from a senior surveyor and/or engineer may be necessary so it could take longer.

The visit to the property itself could easily take several (3-4) hours, as the surveyors on our panel take their time with the inspection in order to ensure they capture as much as possible. Sometimes, survey times can take a lot longer and it really depends on the amount and types of issues that are …

How long does the Full Structural Survey take? Read More »

The site visit itself is very similar for each report; but the report itself is very different. RICS Homebuyer’s Reports tend to be cheaper and have a pre-formatted form, which doesn’t allow you to add further information in or photographs. The Full Building Survey is a much more detailed and in-depth and usually requires more …

What is the difference between a Full Structural Survey and a RICS Home Buyer’s Report? Read More »

A property may appear in good condition and it can be tempting to assume there are no major problems with it, but there may be costly discoveries upon moving in.  A Full (Structural) Building Survey is carried out to establish that the house is structurally sound and to advise you of current and potential defects; …

What is the purpose of having a Full (Structural) Building Survey carried out? Read More »

A Full Structural Building Survey is the most comprehensive type of survey, and the highest (Level 3) on the RICS scale. It is ideal for older properties or properties which may have issues. A Full Building Survey is also advised if you are planning major works to the property. It includes all the fundamental elements …

What is a Full Structural Survey? Read More »