Previously known as a Structural Survey, a Building Survey is an in-depth inspection of a property. It is the most comprehensive of the surveys available for residential properties and will provide a detailed evaluation of a property’s condition.
The Building Survey report will describe the condition of each element of the house and identify the property’s defects, their apparent cause, the urgency of repair, and maintenance options and may also include approximate costs of repair.
Building surveys are a means of providing a detailed evaluation of a property’s condition and involve an extensive inspection. Whilst not being the only type of survey available to property owners, a building survey is the most common, particularly for domestic clients.
The surveys are generally undertaken to help property owners understand the condition of a property, recording risks and potential expenditures that may be required, enabling them to develop the appropriate remedial or maintenance plans. They may also be prepared for individual homeowners, home buyers, or for investors in property portfolios to help inform future investments.
While some aspects may differ, building surveys are also known as condition surveys.
- Building Surveys are suitable for all properties, but they are particularly appropriate for:
- Listed Buildings – a building that is on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest
- Older Properties – recommended for properties over 50 years old
- Buildings constructed in an unusual way, regardless of age
- Buildings that you intend to renovate or change
- Buildings that have already been renovated or significantly altered