Building Survey

Property Surveys

Building surveys are often seen as a non essential part of buying/acquiring a property and many purchasers consider a report as a good indication of the condition of the property. This is often not the case and buyers are left with substantial repair bills. Whilst not every building survey report discovers significant defects to a building there will always be a number of issues reported on and in many cases this allows the purchaser to renegotiate the purchase price with the saving far exceeding the cost of the survey. Each building survey is a bespoke and detailed report and includes a detailed summary highlighting the issues that require attention or further investigation.

 

What is a Property Survey?

A property survey is a detailed inspection of a property’s condition. The surveyor inspects the property and tells you if there are structural problems i.e unstable walls or subsidence. They will highlight any major repairs or alterations, such as fixing the roof or chimney chute. A surveyors report also provides expert commentary on the property, from the type of wall to the type of glazing.

How much does a survey cost?

A HomeBuyer Report is appropriate for properties that are under 50 years old, or are generally in good condition. The report uses a traffic light system where problems are pointed out, along with areas that can be improved, and those that have no issues. Our surveyors will be happy to talk the report through with a client by telephone if they are concerned or need clarification.

A Building Survey (Level 3) is more in-depth and is good for older homes and ones that have had work done, or you intend to do building work to. As such, it is the more expensive and comprehensive option. However this is dependent on the size of the property, the value of the property and the age. You’re paying for a detailed report on your property, where the surveyor may have to spend more time looking at different elements.

What does a Property Survey Check?

·       A full Building Survey will include:

·       A building inspection

·       A visual inspection of all parts of both the external internal parts of the property

·       A full survey report

·       A property valuation (only if specifically requested by the client – this will incur an extra fee).

The survey will inspect all visible and accessible parts of a building, including roofs, walls, floors, windows and doors, chimneys, cellars, garages and outbuildings.  We will look at the heating system, the electrics and all pipework and plumbing, we will carry out a full visual inspection of the roof space and void.

The Surveyors will inform of any major problems with a property, so during the building inspection surveyors will actively search for potential problems and building defects.

Why are Building Surveys Important?

Buying a property is probably the largest purchase that most of us will ever make. And with so much money at stake it’s logical to want to be as fully informed as possible so that there are no nasty surprises when you move in – that’s exactly what a McCallums Property Surveying is all about. We provide you with a comprehensive description of the condition of your property and detail any identified defects.