Building Surveys
A detailed evaluation of a property’s construction and condition,
advising on defects and averting unforeseen expenditure
A full Building Survey (categorised as a Level 3 survey by the RICS and previously known as a Structural Survey) is an extensive report based on the thorough inspection of a property.
It’s recommended for older buildings (50 years+), especially if listed; properties of unusual construction or with a history of structural damage; and buildings that have been renovated or significantly altered. The survey is far superior to a HomeBuyer Report (Level 2 survey) and well worth the money, as it contains more detailed information, identifies risks and offers advice.
The Building Survey is completed by a RICS registered surveyor who will visit your property to carry out both an internal and external inspection. Our examination is ‘hands on’ but non-invasive. We’ll look at every aspect of the building, paying close attention to roofs, floors, walls, windows, finishes and services, unless restricted by fitted coverings or a lack of access. Following the survey, we’ll collate our findings and present them in a comprehensive, easy-to-read report. The report is always bespoke, addressing a specific building and answering queries raised by you. It includes technical information about the property’s construction and, in highlighting defects, advises on maintenance and repairs, outlining the consequences of doing nothing so you can make well-informed decisions.
At OA Surveyors, we’re experienced at assessing all types of building including domestic properties, blocks of flats and commercial premises. As local surveyors, we have expertise in local problems such as subsidence and local historic methods of construction such as bungaroosh.
Pre-purchase home survey
Buying a home is a major financial commitment. A Building Survey should be instructed after your offer on a property has been accepted and before you exchange. Involving a Chartered Surveyor will mean you’re fully aware of the liabilities involved with the purchase. The resulting survey may recommend further specialist investigations or allow you to renegotiate a lower price.
Observations will typically include:
- Dampness
- Evidence of subsidence
- Decay to timber
- Structural defects
- Woodworm
- Insulation to the loft space & an assessment of the EPC
- Materials used in the construction of the building
- Roof structure
- External elevations
- Internal and external defects
- An overview of services, paving & boundary structures
- Works required in the immediate term
- Works required in the future
Only a full survey can give you complete peace of mind. By comparison, a Mortgage Valuation is prepared on behalf of the lender and focuses on the property’s worth, whilst a HomeBuyer Report (Level 2 survey) provides limited insight into a property’s condition. A detailed (Level 3) Building Survey, however, identifies defects, explaining whether they’re typical of a building that age, and what repairs should be prioritised upon moving in. A market valuation and Reinstatement Cost Assessment can be included for an additional fee.
As RICS registered surveyors, we adhere to the RICS Home Survey Standard - a best practice benchmark that reassures clients of the consistency, transparency and competency of our work.
Leasehold property survey
OA Surveyors specialise in leasehold as well as freehold property. Due to our close ties with Managing Agents, we have extensive experience of dealing with multi-occupancy buildings. We understand the implications of communal maintenance better than most and are well placed for surveys of this type.
Commercial property survey
A commercial Building Survey is recommended if the property is old, run down or has been substantially altered. As with residential property, the report details the nature of construction and current condition, highlighting defects and recommending remedial works. It may lead the prospective tenant to reconsider the terms of the lease, requesting that certain maintenance is excluded or that the landlord undertakes repairs before the tenancy begins. When entering into a lease, we recommend that a Schedule of Condition is undertaken alongside a survey to avoid any future landlord / tenant disputes.
If you’re the owner of a commercial property, we also offer Building Pathology advice and Schedules of Dilapidations.
Drone survey
Aerial drone surveys are a fast and cost-effective way to survey at height. Posing fewer health and safety risks than scaffolding, drones are the perfect tool for inspecting roofs and other high places. For insurance cover to remain valid in the event of a claim, many providers now require flat roofs to be inspected every two years.
Since the Civil Aviation Authority has reset the rules for recreational and commercial drone use in the UK, one of our Managing Partners has qualified as a drone pilot, having passed his CAA A2 CofC exams. Our drone equipment is now registered with the CAA and we’re fully insured to use it for surveying purposes.
-
“John Donovan has provided me with three comprehensive surveys which were easy to understand. I am grateful to both John Donovan and Sally Brooks as without their vital contribution to the whole moving process, I would have purchased a house with significant building defects, way beyond my personal and financial capabilities.”
— Tina
