Building Surveys
Formerly known as a "Full Structural Survey", a Building Survey is a detailed report on a property compiled following a thorough inspection. It gives the purchaser or owner of the property a detailed picture of the construction and condition of the building. The report can assist with making a reasoned and informed judgement on whether or not to proceed with a purchase and make clear what decisions and actions should be taken before contracts are exchanged.
A Building Survey is best suited for older properties, properties obviously in a state of disrepair or properties which have been extensively altered or extended.
A Building survey includes details of the following:
- History of the property and how the house has been adapted over the years
- What materials and methods were used in the construction of the property
- Description, condition and effectiveness of all roof coverings
- Efficiency of rainwater goods
- Condition of external and internal joinery e.g. windows, doors, soffits and fascias
- Dampness - both rising and penetrating, together with comments and advice on ventilation
- Identification of structurla movement and suspected causes
- Condition of garages and outbuildings
- Location and state of drainage inspection chambers
- Condition of boundaries, to include retaining walls and fencing
- Implications of the presence of any large trees positioned on the site
- Description of the roof structure along with condition and adequacy of roof timbers
- Condition of flooring
- Ceilings: what materials they are made from and the height
- Identification of timber infestations such as woodworm, dry rot or wet rot
- A description of services to include electrics, gas and water systems
- A description, type, age, and efficiency of heating system
The surveyor will inspect as much of the building as possible, although they will not check any area of the building that is inaccessible, unexposed or hazardous and unsafe to inspect.
Unlike a Homebuyer Report, a Building Survey does not follow a set format and can be tailor made to suit your needs.
If you need assistance in deciding whether to go for a Building Survey or a Homebuyer Survey, please click here for a guide on choosing your survey.
If a Building survey sounds like the the survey that best suits your needs, please don't hesitate to contact us for advice and information.