Buying a property is exciting, but it can also be difficult to know exactly what you’re taking on.
A residential survey gives you an independent assessment of the property before you exchange contracts, helping you identify defects, understand potential repair costs and make a more informed decision about your purchase.
We offer two levels of residential survey, depending on the type, age and condition of the property.
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
An RICS Level 3 Building Survey is the most detailed level of residential survey and is suitable for all types of property.
The survey provides a detailed assessment of the property’s construction and condition.
We will identify defects, explain their likely causes and highlight repairs or further investigations that may be required.
The aim is not simply to provide you with a comprehensive report. It is to help you understand the property and the implications of any issues we find.
Where appropriate, the findings may also help you decide whether to proceed with the purchase, obtain further quotations or discuss the purchase price with the seller.
It is particularly recommended if you are buying:
- An older property
- A large or complex property
- A property that has been extended or significantly altered
- A property in visibly poor condition
- A period or traditionally constructed home
- A property where you are planning significant renovation work
A Level 3 Survey Can Help You Understand:
- Floors and ceilings
- Drainage concerns
- Extensions and alterations
- Areas requiring specialist investigation
- Maintenance and repair priorities
- Structural concerns
- Roof and chimney defects
- Damp and moisture problems
- Cracking and movement
- External walls and masonry
- Windows and doors
Major Defect Survey
Our Major Defect Survey is similar in scope to a RICS Level 2 Survey.
It is designed for properties that appear to be in reasonable condition where you primarily want to understand whether there are any significant defects or concerns before you proceed.
The survey focuses on the key elements of the property and identifies issues that could result in significant repair costs or require further investigation.
A Major Defect Survey Can Highlight:
- Significant structural defects
- Damp or moisture problems
- Roofing issues
- Cracking or movement
- Defective external elements
- Visible drainage concerns
- Significant internal defects
- Areas where further specialist advice may be required
This can be a good option if you want professional reassurance about the overall condition of the property without requiring the more extensive detail provided by a Level 3 Building Survey.
Which Survey Do I Need?
You don’t need to work this out on your own.
The right survey will depend on the age, construction, condition and complexity of the property you are purchasing.
If you send us the property details, we can advise you on which level of survey would be most appropriate.
Once the property has been inspected, you will receive a clear written report outlining our findings.
We aim to make the report straightforward and useful, rather than filling it with unnecessary technical language.
You will be able to see the important issues, understand where repairs may be required and identify anything that should be investigated further before you exchange contracts.
What Happens After the Survey?
Arrange Your Survey
If you’re buying a property and would like an independent assessment before you commit, get in touch with us today.
Send us the property address and a few details about the home you are purchasing and we can advise you on the most appropriate survey.
Regulated by RICS
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