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Surveys

Surveys are a kind of 'health check' for buildings. If you are buying a property you should have a survey done before making any commitment to purchase.

A survey can actually save you money. If there are any serious structural problems or any other significant defect in the building, you can often renegotiate the purchase price to reflect the cost of essential repairs - or even withdraw from the purchase of the property if necessary.

The Surveyor will inspect and report on all the parts of the Property that can easily be accessed, although fitted carpets and floor coverings are not lifted and furniture not removed. Whilst services are not tested, a visual inspection is carried out and a comment on the installation and its condition is provided.

There are two types of survey available:

HomeBuyers Survey & Valuation

A HomeBuyers Survey & Valuation (HSV), also known as a HomeBuyers Report, is a survey done to a standard format set out by the RICS.

This type of Survey is most suitable for conventional properties built to a standard design within the last 150 years, which are generally in reasonable condition.

The HSV does not detail every aspect of the property, and only focuses on urgent matters needing immediate attention and matters that would affect a purchaser's decision whether or not to proceed with the purchase.

This type of survey is not usually considered appropriate for properties in need of extensive renovation, or if major alterations are to be carried out.

The HomeBuyers Survey & Valuation includes details of:

  • The general condition of the Property.
  • Any major faults in the accessible parts of the building that may affect value.
  • Any urgent problems that need inspecting by a specialist contractor before making a commitment to purchase.
  • Structural movement.
  • Timber defects.
  • Dampness.
  • Insulation.
  • Estimated costs for insurance purposes.
  • Market Valuation. 

Building Survey

A Building Survey is a comprehensive inspection of a property. It is suitable for properties of all types and ages especially:

  • Listed Buildings.
  • Older properties.
  • Buildings of non-traditional construction.
  • Properties in need of extensive renovation.
  • Buildings that have been modified/extended.

A building survey examines all accessible parts of the building - specific areas can be included by agreement with the Surveyor, so can the report cover any particular concerns that a purchaser has about the property.

A Building Survey includes details of:

  • The location.​
  • The type of construction.
  • The general condition of each part of the building.
  • Major and minor defects.
  • Any urgent problems that need inspecting by a specialist contractor before making a commitment to purchase.
  • Structural movement.
  • Timber defects.
  • Dampness.
  • Insulation.

A Building Survey does not usually include any valuation advice or an estimate of rebuilding costs for insurance purposes, although this can be provided, if required, for an additional fee.

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