Frequently Asked Questions, residential surveys

Yes. We carry out surveys for anyone who is buying a house and who want to know more about the condition of a property or have any concerns about its condition

This can depend on the size of the property but usually for a three bedroom semi-detached house it takes around 3.5 to 5 hours on site. Before this there is a desk top study which takes 3 to 4 hours then the report itself usually takes a day to write. For larger properties it may take longer.

Both surveys are the same but the reports and information within differ. The home condition report is better suited to newer properties where little or no alterations have been carried out. The building survey is more suite to older properties where alterations and extensions have been carried out. We will advise you which survey is best suited to the property

The government and "Which?" recommend having a survey carried out prior to purchase by someone who is a member of an appropriate organisation such as the RPSA

Yes. All surveys and reports for home condition and building surveys on residential properties are carried out in line with the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) guidelines. These can be found online at  HOME | Residential Property Surveyors Association (rpsa.org.uk) Note that the "basic" or "basic plus" surveys do not include as much information or survey as many elements as the standard reports

We aim to get the report emailed to you within five days following the survey

Our surveys are a thorough inspection of the property and can highlight several defects including, but not limited to;

• Structural failure 
• Blocked or defective drains
• Damp
• Rot 
• Defective roof coverings

They may also show that the property is in good condition or just has minor defects. Either way you will be able to make a more informed decision.

You may be able to negotiate the price, depending on the survey findings

You don't have to do anything other than instruct us! After that, just sit back and wait for the report. We'll make all the arrangements with the agent or vendor.