Building Surveys Printer friendly version

A Building Survey is a comprehensive inspection of a property. It's suitable for all types of property. However they are not usually recommended for purpose built or converted flats as it will not be possible to inspect all areas of the building, such as basements or roof voids, unless these areas form part of the flat under review. Please also see our page on RICS Homebuyers Reports.
Building Surveys are most useful to give an overall view of condition of residential and commercial buildings, especially:

  • Listed Buildings
  • Older properties
  • Buildings constructed in an unusual way, whatever their age
  • Properties you intend to renovate or alter in any way
  • Properties that have had extensive alterations

It examines all accessible parts of the building - and you can ask to have specific areas included, so it covers any particular concerns you have about the property. We are not allowed to damage the property under review, so we are not able to lift fitted carpets or fitted flooring, such as laminate

A Building Survey includes details of:

  • Details of faults, both major and minor - and what they could mean
  • The possible cost of repairs
  • Results of damp tests
  • Damage to timbers – including woodworm and rot
  • The condition of damp-proofing, insulation and drainage, (though drains are not tested)
  • Technical information on the construction of the building and the materials used.
  • The location
  • Recommendations for any further inspections or tests by special contractors, for example damp, timber and boiler tests

A Building Survey does not usually include a valuation, but this can be provided if required.
The written report includes location maps, photographs of the property, maintenance notes. We aim to give clear, unbiased advice and the Surveyor is available to discuss specific sections the report over the phone if wished.
A survey can actually save you money. If there are serious structural problems, you can often re-negotiate the sale price of the property to reflect the cost of necessary repairs or you may even decide you don't want to buy it at all.

The Term 'Building Survey'
Following advice from the RICS we use the term Building Survey instead of 'Structural Survey' to distinguish the report from a Structural Engineers' Report on structural matters.