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What is a Building Survey?
A building survey is a comprehensive ‘health-check’ on a building. It is often done before purchasing an older building or renovating / extending one that you already own. The surveyor will examine all parts of the building that are easily accessible. Water and electric tests will not be part of the survey though the surveyor may comment if further tests by an appropriately qualified professional would be beneficial.
You can also ask for specific areas to be looked at in more detail. A Building Survey is fairly detailed and could save you money by alerting you to major defects. The survey may include details of timber condition, damp, drainage and how the building has been constructed. It will not provide a valuation. If this is something you would like, you must ask for this as an additional survey.
There are several different types of survey so if you are not sure what you need it is best to ask a surveyor and they will be able to advise you.
What is a Full Structural Survey?
Full Structural Surveys is another name for Building Survey. Many people use the term ‘Full Structural Survey’ and a surveyor will know what you mean if you are more comfortable using this terminology.
Who is qualified to carry out a Building Survey?
Normally, a Surveyor who is a member of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) will undertake the survey. You will know the Surveyor is a member of RICS if they use MRIC or FRICS after their name. The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors help maintain professional standards within the surveying profession.
Another body for professionals specialising in the design, construction, evaluation and maintenance of building construction is the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE). Professionally qualified members will have the letters MCABE or FCABE after their names.
There is also the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) . Their members work in the development, conservation and improvement of the built environment. Chartered members will have the letters MCIOB or FCIOB after their names.
It should be noted that registered Architects also sometimes carry out surveys.
You may come across surveyors who have different qualifications and accreditation - it is your responsibility to check the surveyor you choose has suitable qualifications, experience and insurance to carry out the work you require to a satisfactory standard.
Are you a Surveyor?
If you are a Building Surveyor and you would like to know how to become listed on Local Architects Direct, please click here.
What do our customers say about our surveyors?
We ask all of our Customers to let us have feedback on any of our Surveyors they used. Please see below for some of their comments:
The web site worked well and I used John Dillon. I would recommend him and the service he provides.
The website was nicely laid out and easy to use, I used DJA Surveyors. He was a very pleasant man, it was a quick easy process and a great price. I wouldn't hesitate to use them again
The web site was very good, quick and easy to use and I got an immediate contact from 2 suppliers. I used ACS Property Consultants Limited who were quick to respond to my query and very prompt with carrying out the work and producing a report.
The web site was superb, beyond expectations and we used Peter Hogan. The work carried out was very satisfactory, we had our survey booked within 10 mins of logging out of the site, very impressive site and service from those listed on it
The website worked well. I placed an order with Building Design Services and am satisfied with the resulting work
I requested a survey and indicative quote from Yorkshire Property Surveyors. They promptly provided a very competitive quote. Once my requirements were captured and they were instructed the service was unbelievably smooth and I did not need to get involved or chase for any updates. The final report produced was of a high quality and very detailed. I cannot recommend them enough
Needed a full building survey in a hurry and was offered within 24 hours. Very reasonable price with excellent service from Rachel in booking survey. John led survey and delivered thorough job then took time to talk through findings in detail same day. Can not fault service in any way and would recommend to all, property surveyed is grade 2 listed and John was incredibly knowledgable about structure, remedial options and local conservation policy, Thanks to all the team,