Your Questions Answered - F.A.Q’s
Q. What types of survey are there?
A. We do three types:-
The Homebuyers Survey is our basic survey and is for
properties that were built after 1980.
The Building Survey (used to be called the Structural
Survey) is far more detailed and explains the construction
type of each element, provides explanation of defects and
how to remedy them, uses thermal imagery and pole cameras
and provides estimated costs for works. This is ideal for
any property built before 1980 and properties after 1980
that have been extended or altered.
The Building and Services Survey is our most in-depth
survey. It is the Building Survey PLUS a full electrical
safety check PLUS a full gas safety check PLUS a sewer
inspection with a drain camera (if accessible). It gives the
buyer total peace of mind and highlights possible expensive
defects prior to purchase.
Q. What are the timescales?
A. Once instructed we arrange to carry out the survey within
5 working days (depending on vendor access). Once the survey
has been carried out the report will be with you, and your
conveyancer, within 3 days. I then schedule a telephone call
so that I can go over any questions that you may have.
Q. Can I attend the survey?
A. You are more than welcome to come along if the seller is
ok with this. I obviously have a job to do however we can
have some time for questions/concerns and it may help with
the understanding of the survey.
Q. What is the difference between your survey and others?
A. Our surveys are very detailed and in our Building Survey
we us thermal imagery, a hygrometer and salt analysis for
determining cause and type of damp. We use a 9m pole camera
to view the roofs, we check the water flow rate, we use
boroscopes and laser levels on floors. We check the boundary
against the Land Registry Plan and highlight any anomalies.
Q. Do you check the gas and electrics?
A. We take a fully qualified electrical engineer and gas
safe engineer on our Building and Services Survey. The carry
out a full safety check on the electrical system and any gas
appliances such as boiler, gas fire, cooker etc. You then
get a report and a detailed quote of any works needed. This
may help you re-negotiate the price of the house.
Q. What works require a Party Wall Surveyor?
A. Works such as extensions, chimney removal, loft
conversions and new builds are likely to come under the
Party Wall Etc Act 1996. We offer a free, no obligation,
consultation to check if the Act applies. Please feel free
to contact us.
Call us on 01724 488805 if your question is not answered here or contact us online.