WHAT SORT OF SURVEY SHOULD I HAVE ?

There are two principal types of survey - A Full Building Survey or a Homebuyers Survey and Valuation and as experienced Chartered Surveyors we will be able to tailor our report to suit your needs.

  WHAT ARE THE MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE TWO ?

A Building Survey will give you a full and detailed report of the whole of the property including the structure ie. the roof, walls, floors and foundations plus the interior of the building. It will comment on everything to do with the building including the fittings, such as showers or kitchen units, and will often recommend further inspections by qualified specialists to report, for example, on the safety of the electrical services or the state of the drains and any other matters which come to light during the inspection. Where possible the report will be supported by colour photographs.

   WHAT IF YOU FIND SOME MAJOR DEFECT?

We will comment on the seriousness of the defect and its effect on the property including value. We will be able to recommend a local builder or specialist to give an estimate of the cost of repair. You will be able to show the report and the estimates to the seller and you may be able to negotiate a reduction in the purchase price to cover the cost.

   WHAT ABOUT A HOMEBUYER SURVEY & VALUATION ?

This is a simpler form of report designed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, of whom we are members. It has been designed to give you an ` overview of the general construction and condition of the building and a summary of any problems that we may find. We might recommend further investigation from specialists such as electricians if we suspect there is a problem.

We will also give our professional opinion of the market value of the property and also an amount for which you should insure the building.

  WHAT IF I ONLY WANT YOU TO LOOK AT A SPECIFIC PART OF MY HOUSE SUCH AS THE ROOF ?

That’s fine. We can carry out any type of survey and are often asked to comment on a particular element of a building if, for example, the owners are looking to extend or refurbish.

We will be pleased to discuss your specific requirements and tailor our report to suit you.

  HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST ?

The cost varies according to the type of report and the size and age of the property. If you are buying a property you may well find that the cost of the survey is more than met by a negotiated reduction in the price if significant defects are discovered. At the very least it will give you the confidence to proceed with the purchase or the reason to withdraw from negotiations.

Please give us a ring on 01444 416792 and we will be pleased to answer your queries and give you a quote.