Structural Property Inspections
House Surveys offers services to first homebuyers and anyone needing a professional report in accordance with the RICS recommendations for Building Surveys.
What is the primary purpose of a structural property inspection?
Essentially, it provides an independent, detailed report about the condition of the property under inspection; the age, character and location of the property is taken into account when finalising the report.
What is the property inspection process?
- The client engages the inspector based on an initial consultation.
- The inspector uses standard surveyor equipment to aid in the discovery, like a torch and a 3 metre ladder. If specialised equipment is required to access areas of the property, then this will incur additional fees and it will be discussed before the assignment starts.
- Before starting, the client discloses to the inspector as much information as possible.
- The inspector will review parts of the property that are visible or accessible. Any parts that are inaccessible cannot be included in the review. Inaccessible sections of the property will be noted accordingly.
- The Structural Property Inspection Report will be as detailed as possible and include a review of all void areas and the roof.
Inspecting the Main Structure
The inspector will typically review:
- Exterior
- Floor surfaces
- Ventilation
- Insulation
- Exposed walls
- Brickwork
- Flues
- Wall cavities
- Wall foundations
- Timber
Visual Inspection
A visual inspection of building’s utilities will augment the structural inspection.
- Sanitary fittings and associated taps
- Lead piping
- Boiler controls and pipes
- Space heaters
- Water installations
- Electrical installations
- Drains
Fences, Paths and Outbuildings
The report will include a general inspection of fences, paths and outbuildings that surround the main building.
Repair Estimates
If instructed, indicative repair costs can be provided, but these should be considered a budget estimate only for client consideration.
Reporting Contamination
Comments on known hazards, such as historic mining in the vicinity, or overhead power lines will be referenced in addition to any known radon gas levels.
Call House Surveys to discuss your needs. We are a team of Chartered Surveyors serving Mill Lodge, Mill Crescent, Westerleigh and Bristol.