A home is the most expensive purchase most people ever make. As an owner you will benefit from expert advice on the condition of your property – whether you plan to live in it, rent it out or sell it. It is important to choose the correct survey for your property.

RICS HOMEBUYER REPORT

This type of report is suitable for conventional buildings that are in a fairly reasonable condition. It may not be suitable for some older, larger properties or properties of an unusual construction and is intended for buildings that appear to be in good order. For properties over 100 years old, or those that have undergone a major extension/alteration, we recommend a Building Survey.

In a RICS HomeBuyer Report (Survey) we will conduct an in-depth visual inspection of the property. The report provides an expert account of the property’s condition and highlights any problems in clear and easy to understand ‘traffic light’ ratings. Your report will include:

• a list of problems that the surveyor considers may affect the property;
• advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance;
• issues that need to be investigated to prevent serious damage or dangerous conditions;
• legal issues that need to be addressed before completing your purchase; and
• information on location, local environment and the recorded energy efficiency (where available).

The RICS HomeBuyer Report (Survey & Valuation) gives you all the above but also includes a separate market valuation, insurance reinstatement costs and a list of problems that the Surveyor considers may affect the value of the property.

BUILDING SURVEYS

Formerly known as Structural Surveys, the Building Survey is essential for large, older or run-down properties, properties that have undergone significant alterations or where major alteration work is planned.  This, our most comprehensive report, provides you with an in-depth analysis of the property’s condition and includes advice on defects, repairs and maintenance options.

RICS Building Survey includes:

• a thorough inspection and detailed report on a wider range of issues
• a description of visible defects and potential problems caused by hidden flaws
• an outline of repair options and the likely consequences of inactivity and
• advice for your legal advisers and details of serious risks and dangerous conditions.

An RICS Building Survey does not include a valuation, but we are able to provide this as a separate extra service.