RICS Domestic Building Surveys (Formally known as a Structural Survey) – Isn’t this the same as a Homebuyer Survey and Valuation?
the short answer
This is the most comprehensive – and the most costly – type of survey. It is suitable for any building, but is especially recommended for older buildings (75 years and upwards – if you’re not sure give us a call and we’ll help you establish the age of the property), those constructed out of unconventional materials such as timber or thatch and properties which have had lots of alterations or extensions and for buildings you’re buying with the intention of extending or renovating.
A full Building Survey takes much longer than a homebuyer's report. The survey report can also take longer to produce than a homebuyer's report. The report you receive will be long and very thorough - though our reports are well structured and are both easy to read and follow.
The Building Survey is an in-depth inspection and report and is generally considered to be the "Gold" standard of surveys; it’s a more focussed and detailed appraisal and assessment of the condition of the property.
It’s suitable for all types of residential property and involves a long and detailed inspection of all the elements of construction and provides a fuller picture of the type of construction and condition. The surveyor will spend time in the roof space, and will go from room to room within the property. The surveyor will spend time looking at the grounds, including trees and outbuildings and s/he will also give careful attention to the condition of the drains and the services.
The drains and other building services (gas, electricity, heating, cooling and rain water disposal) will be visually inspected as far as practicably possible.
Full testing of these services can be carried out in order to determine their condition and safety – we always recommend this. (For example a closed circuit television survey of the drains). The results of these tests form part of the Building Survey.
The Building Survey is custom-made to the client's individual needs and lends itself especially to properties which are old or of unusual construction or which may be in a seriously dilapidated state. It’s also particularly useful where a prospective purchaser has conversion, renovation or alteration works in mind. The report will also comment on any matters of particular concern to the client and will provide information about construction and materials as well as details of the whole range of both major and minor defects.
The Building Survey report will be much more comprehensive than the Homebuyer’s Report.
Our reports are somewhat different from the norm. We include a detailed and prioritised cost schedule which will help the buyer consider the purchase price in relation to repair costs. The reports are written in plain English; we avoid the use of complicated jargon. Where this isn’t possible, we give you a clear explanation.
The fee you pay us for your survey includes telephone consultation to discuss the survey.
A Building Survey includes details of:
- Major and minor defects and what they could mean
- The possible cost of repairs
- Results of damp testing on walls
- Damage to timbers – including woodworm and rot
- The condition of damp-proofing, insulation and drainage
- Technical information on the construction of the property and the materials used
- The location
- Recommendations for any further special inspections
How can a Chartered Surveyor help?
Using the services of Delaware Services Ltd Chartered Surveyors offers peace of mind because:
- They give you clear, impartial and expert advice
- They act in your interest. Unlike estate agents, HIPs’ suppliers and valuers who are paid by and work for the seller and the lender, Delaware Services Ltd work for you to look after your interests
- Delaware Services Ltd is regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors who have strict codes of conduct to protect you - including having proper insurance
- As members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors they have to update their skills and knowledge throughout their careers, so you can rely on their expertise
You are further protected by a complaints’ service and Ombudsman scheme.