Does My Property Need A Building Survey?

If you’re thinking about selling or buying a property, considering a building survey is smart. Here’s what you need to know:

Types of Surveys: 

When you’re thinking about measured building surveys for your property, it’s good to know the types available. Each survey has a different focus and detail level.

• Condition Report: This is the most basic survey. It checks the property’s condition and highlights urgent issues. It’s simple and doesn’t go into much detail.

• HomeBuyer Report: More detailed than a Condition Report. It looks at the inside and outside of the house. It points out problems like dampness and subsidence. This report is good for newer homes.

• Building Survey: The most detailed survey. It’s for older or unusual properties. The surveyor checks everything, even under floors and above ceilings. They advise on repairs and maintenance.

• New-Build Snagging Survey: This is for new homes. It finds small problems or ‘snags’ in a new-build house, like a door not closing right or a missing tile.

Purpose of a Survey

The purpose of a building survey is quite important when you’re dealing with property. It’s all about getting a clear picture of the state of the building. This means finding out if any big problems need fixing, like dampness, cracks in the walls, or issues with the roof. 

Knowing these things helps you plan better, especially when it comes to money. If you’re buying a house, this information can be really useful. It can help you talk about the price with the seller. Sometimes, if there are a lot of repairs needed, you might be able to negotiate a lower price.

A survey also helps in planning any work you want to do on the house. If you know what condition everything is in, you can make better decisions about what to change or upgrade. It’s also good for safety. 

The survey can tell you if there’s anything in the house that could be dangerous, like old wiring or a weak structure. This is important to know, both for you and for anyone else living in or using the building.

When a Survey is Recommended

Getting a survey for your property is often recommended in certain situations. If you’re buying an old house, it’s a good idea to have a survey done. Older buildings can have hidden problems that you can’t see straight away. 

Also, if you’re looking at a house that’s unusual or has had a lot of changes, a survey can help you understand the property better. For those who are planning big renovations, a survey shows what’s possible and what might be a problem. 

It’s also wise to get a survey if you see clear signs of issues, like big cracks in the walls or uneven floors. This helps you know what needs fixing before it gets worse.

Survey Costs

The cost of a property survey can vary depending on several factors, including the type of survey you choose and the size and complexity of the property. Generally, a basic homebuyer’s report is less expensive than a full structural survey. 

The cost varies based on the type of survey. A basic RICS Home Survey Level 1, according to Chartered Surveyors In London, might cost £300-£900, while a more comprehensive RICS Home Survey Level 3 can cost between £630 to £1500 or more​​. Keep in mind that the cost of the survey is a worthwhile investment to avoid potential future issues with the property.

Conclusion

In conclusion, determining whether your property needs a building survey depends on various factors. Understanding the types of surveys available, their purposes, and when they are recommended is essential. Survey costs vary but are a worthwhile investment to prevent future issues. 

Choosing a qualified surveyor is crucial, and the survey duration depends on its type and property size. Even newly built properties can benefit from surveys. Ultimately, a building survey provides valuable insights into a property’s condition, helping you make informed decisions about buying, selling, or renovating a property while ensuring safety and peace of mind.