What is a building survey?
A building survey, according to the RICS, is "the most comprehensive report of its kind and should be used for larger or older properties, or when planning major works. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the property's condition and includes advice on defects, repairs and maintenance options."
That said, how do we know when a building is in a decent condition unless we get a detailed survey? We generally take a chance that everything will be okay. Most of the time things are okay or problems are identified quickly enough. Often, defects go on for years and end up requiring expensive repairs. How do you tell what type survey you really need?
Surveying a modern (20 year old bungalow) several years ago, found a square downpipe, hidden below monoblock paving, sitting against the original below-ground pipework which was round, and had resulted in rainwater pumping out around the base of the house for years. There was only slightly raised moisture levels detected (but not visible) inside the house but inspecting below the floor found the solum to be below water and wet rot forming. Although modern buildings have a fully sealed and concreted solum, a timber framed building still has a timber soleplate on the sub-structure masonry so, when this is saturated, the moisture passes to the timber soleplate which starts to decay.
Who knew this was happening? Well, a survey from us would have told you. It is very common where designs are changed with no thought to the consequences whether it is the shape of downpipes, the height of ground levels, the type of render or roughcast, the use of cement mortar rather than lime, or blocking sub floor ventilation.
That said, how do we know when a building is in a decent condition unless we get a detailed survey? We generally take a chance that everything will be okay. Most of the time things are okay or problems are identified quickly enough. Often, defects go on for years and end up requiring expensive repairs. How do you tell what type survey you really need?
Surveying a modern (20 year old bungalow) several years ago, found a square downpipe, hidden below monoblock paving, sitting against the original below-ground pipework which was round, and had resulted in rainwater pumping out around the base of the house for years. There was only slightly raised moisture levels detected (but not visible) inside the house but inspecting below the floor found the solum to be below water and wet rot forming. Although modern buildings have a fully sealed and concreted solum, a timber framed building still has a timber soleplate on the sub-structure masonry so, when this is saturated, the moisture passes to the timber soleplate which starts to decay.
Who knew this was happening? Well, a survey from us would have told you. It is very common where designs are changed with no thought to the consequences whether it is the shape of downpipes, the height of ground levels, the type of render or roughcast, the use of cement mortar rather than lime, or blocking sub floor ventilation.
How much is a building survey?
That depends on the size, type and complexity of your property. Obviously a larger building will take more time to survey and the report will take longer to compile so will be more expensive. The cost of a building survey depends on several factors, size, design, complicated layout, number of external walls, etc... But, once a fee has been confirmed, that fee remains fixed however long the survey takes.
How long does it take to do a building survey?
Again, it depends on the size of the property but we generally set aside a full day to carry out the survey then another day or more to read the site notes, review the photographs and compile the report however we aim to have the completed report emailed to you within 3 working days of the survey.
- We do not carry out multiple surveys each day as other firms do, we concentrate on providing you with the best level of information and getting it right.
- We do not pass on liability for determining the cause of defects to third parties as other firms do. We evidence defects and provide guidance on the correct remedies, including the most appropriate materials where appropriate.