Building Survey
Building Survey is the traditional, full structural survey, designed for larger, older, or significantly altered properties.
Get A FREE Quote!
Request a free no-obligation quote for a survey carried out by professionally qualified surveyors.
What is a Building Survey?
A Building Survey, or a Full Structural Survey, is a comprehensive inspection of a property’s condition. It is recommended for older properties, much larger in size, in obviously poor condition with unique features or significant renovation and/or conversion work plans. We thoroughly examine the property, assessing its structure, services, and overall condition. The Building Survey offers an in-depth analysis of the property’s construction, materials, and any defects present.
Why Choose Smart Home Surveyors for Your Building Survey?
- Expertise and Accreditation: At Smart Home Surveyors, we are a RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) regulated practice and also members of the RPSA (Residential Property Surveyors Association), ensuring the highest professional standards and expertise in the field. You can rely on our qualifications and experience to deliver accurate and reliable Building Survey reports which are clear, detailed, and jargon-free.
- Comprehensive Assessments: Our Building Survey covers all accessible areas of the property, encompassing the interior, exterior, and suitable outbuildings. In this process, we meticulously assess the property’s structure, roofing, walls, floors, windows, plumbing, electrical systems, and more. Through our thorough inspections, we are able to identify any defects or potential issues that may impact the property’s value or safety. Furthermore, we provide a detailed analysis of remedial actions needed, where possible, to address these concerns.
- Detailed Reports: Our Building Surveys reports are meticulously crafted to be both comprehensive and easily comprehensible. Within these reports, we offer a clear and concise overview of the property’s condition, adeptly emphasizing any notable defects, structural considerations, or regions necessitating urgent focus. Furthermore, our reports are enriched with thorough descriptions, accompanied by pertinent photographs. In instances where deemed necessary, we also provide recommendations for repairs, additional investigations, or consultations with specialists, ensuring a holistic approach to addressing property concerns
- Client-Focused Approach: We prioritise your needs consistently throughout the Building Survey process. From the outset, we diligently address any questions or concerns you may have regarding the survey findings. Furthermore, we take great care to ensure that the content and implications of the report are fully comprehensible to you. This empowers you with the knowledge necessary to make well-informed decisions about the property, reflecting our commitment to providing you with a comprehensive and supportive experience.
- Time-Efficient Service: We understand the importance of timely information in property buying. We work diligently to deliver Building Survey reports within a reasonable timeframe, enabling you to proceed confidently and meet your desired timeline.
Surveys
Price Range (No VAT to pay)
£850 – £1450 +
Optional Market Valuation + £125
A Building Survey report typically includes the following components:
- Executive Summary: The report begins with an executive summary that concisely overviews the essential findings and recommendations. This section summarises the entire report, allowing you to grasp the main points quickly.
- Property Description: The report includes a detailed description of the property, including its location, age, construction type, and any notable features. This section provides context for the subsequent assessment.
- Methodology and Scope: The report outlines the process followed during the survey and describes the scope of the inspection. It specifies which areas of the property were accessible and any limitations that may have impacted the survey.
- Overall Condition Assessment: The surveyor provides an assessment of the property's overall condition, highlighting any significant defects or issues identified during the inspection. This section may include a general condition rating for the property or its various components.
- Structural Assessment: The report assesses the structural integrity of the property, including the foundation, walls, floors, roof, and other load-bearing elements. It identifies any structural defects, such as cracks, subsidence, or dampness, and provides recommendations for necessary repairs or further investigations.
- Building Envelope: This section focuses on the external elements of the property, such as the roof, walls, windows, and doors. The report examines their condition, including signs of leaks, water ingress, decay, or inadequate insulation. Recommendations for repairs or maintenance are provided.
- Internal Elements: The report evaluates the condition of the property's internal components, including the roof space, walls, ceilings, floors, internal joinery, built-in fittings, bathroom fittings etc. It identifies defects or issues such as dampness, mold, or poor quality fittings. Recommendations for repairs or improvements are provided.
- Services Assessment: This section assesses the property's services, including plumbing, electrical systems, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. The report identifies deficiencies, safety hazards, or maintenance requirements and recommends necessary actions or specialist inspections.
- Additional Considerations: The report may include additional considerations specific to the property, such as hazardous materials (e.g., asbestos) or specialist assessments (e.g., for listed buildings or properties in conservation areas).
- Recommendations and Advice: The surveyor recommends repairs, maintenance, or further investigations based on the survey findings. This section may outline priority repairs, estimated costs, and suggested timelines for addressing the identified issues.
‘’Always review a sample report or discuss the contents with the surveyor to ensure you understand what will be included in your Building Survey report’’.
Gain Invaluable Insights with Smart Home Surveyors' Building Survey.
A Building Survey signifies a pivotal investment. Serving to unveil the true condition of a property. Leveraging Smart Home Surveyors’ unparalleled expertise, meticulous attention to detail, and resolute commitment to client satisfaction. You can seamlessly commence your property-buying journey. Moreover, our all-encompassing Building Survey report empowers you with the knowledge and insightful perspective necessary for making a well-informed decision. Take action today by reaching out to schedule your Building Survey. Allow our seasoned surveyors to adeptly navigate you through the intricate landscape of the property-buying process.
Frequently asked questions
A building survey represents a meticulous and all-encompassing property inspection conducted by a qualified surveyor. Also recognized as a structural survey or Level 3 survey. This assessment offers an extensive evaluation of a building’s condition, structural integrity, and potential concerns. The primary objective of a building survey is to pinpoint any defects, shortcomings, or areas of apprehension that could influence the property’s value, overall safety, or necessitate remedial action. This comprehensive scrutiny spans both internal and external facets of the property. Encompassing aspects such as the roof, walls, floors, windows, plumbing, electrical systems, and more. Ultimately, a building survey report furnishes detailed findings, actionable recommendations, and insightful guidance. These serve as invaluable aids for property owners or prospective buyers. Empowering them to make well-informed decisions pertaining to property acquisition, maintenance, or renovation.
Typically a building Survey will take no longer than 8 hours for the surveyor to complete.
Yes, it is highly recommended to commission a survey for a new build property. Even though new builds are generally constructed to rigorous standards. Undertaking a survey can reveal latent defects, validate adherence to building regulations, and instill a sense of assurance. This proactive step aids in identifying any nuances that might have eluded attention throughout the construction phase. Affording you the opportunity to rectify them prior to assuming ownership of the property. Undoubtedly, a survey conducted on a new build property represents a judicious investment. Safeguarding the caliber and solidity of your newfound residence.
Prices depend on location and size of the house, but will start at £1000.
Why choose us?
Quick, easy and efficient. That’s what you can expect from Smart Home Surveyors. Our RICS-registered services are designed to give you the best possible experience, with quick turnaround times and round the clock customer support.
We have years of experience behind us. We have the right skills and experience to provide you with a detailed and concise report to give you the peace of mind that you deserve.