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Building Survey

Regular price £720.00 GBP
Regular price Sale price £720.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
Tax included.

Please note, final prices may be subject to change

If you're dealing with a large, older and run-down property, a building that is unusual or altered, or if you're planning major works, then a RICS Building Survey will be the right survey for you. It gives detailed information about the structure and fabric of the property, includes all the same information as the Home Buyers and Home Condition Reports, as well as:

  • A more thorough inspection and detailed report on a wider range of issues;
  • A description of visible defects and potential problems caused by hidden flaws;
  • An outline of repair options and the likely consequences of inactivity;
  • Advice for your legal advisers and details of serious risks and dangerous conditions, and
  • An outline of costs for any major repairs that will be needed in order to make the property structurally sound or waterproof. Where you are considering alterations, we can also look into the cost of these works.

A Building Survey does not include a Valuation as standard, but can be included on request. This will include:

  • The surveyors professional opinion on the market value of the property;
  • An insurance reinstatement figure for the property, and
  • A list of problems that the surveyor considers may affect the value of the property.

All surveys are priced based on the size and type of property, as well as your requirement. Please contact us for a quotation.

FAQs

What happens during a Building Survey?

The surveyor will investigate the property both internally and externally on each floor and identify any defects. The surveyor will take notes and photographs as they go, of any areas of concern. They will assess the cause of the defects and then report the recommendations suitable for rectifying the defects. This type of survey is usually recommended for older properties, or those of non-standard construction.

When is the best time to get a Building Survey?

It is best to get the survey early in the legal process. Getting a Building Survey post-offer could enable the buyer to negotiate a discount in price up to the expected value of the repairs, once the legal work is underway. The survey should be completed before the exchange of contracts and once the buyer has committed themselves to the purchase. It is important to note that the seller can pull out at any stage before the exchange of contract. The buyer is therefore at risk of paying for a survey which may not be needed.

Can a surveyor advise on the feasibility of an extension or renovation?

If the buyer is planning on renovating or adding an extension onto the house, then a Building Survey is vital. Without it, planning permission is unlikely to be granted. Planning permission is required from the local council in order to renovate, as they need to confidence that the structure is sound.

How long does a Building Survey take?

The survey can take anywhere between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the property.

How long will it take to get the report?

The report is usually produced within 3 to 5 working days after the inspection has taken place.

Can a house fail a Building Survey?

A Building Survey does not pass or fail a house, but examines and comments on its physical condition and gives an indication of what may need to be repaired or replaced.