SelectSurv

It's not just a house, it's a Home

FAQs

How can we help?

What is a Building Survey?

A Building Survey (formerly called a Structural Survey) is the most comprehensive survey available and the highest level (Level 3) on the RICS scale. It is ideal for older properties, rundown or unique properties, and those that have been extended or altered. A Building Survey is also advised if you are planning major works to the property. It contains all the elements of the Homebuyer Report but offers a more tailored, in-depth analysis. A Building Survey does not typically include a valuation, although this can be added by separate arrangement.

What is a Homebuyer’s Report?

A Homebuyer Report (Level 2 on the RICS scale) advises on defects that may affect the property and, if requested, its value. The Homebuyer Report is a cost-effective report and suitable for flats and houses that are modern or unaltered. It is not as comprehensive or in-depth as the Building Survey.

What is a Schedule of Condition/ Snagging list?

Our Schedule of Condition/Snagging List will note the condition of the property at the time built (new builds) or, in the case of commercial premises, when taking over a new lease. This will indicate the condition of the property when a lease starts so it can be left in a similar condition once the lease is complete.

What is the difference between a HomeBuyer Report and a Building Survey?

A HomeBuyer Report and a Building Survey are both types of property surveys conducted by qualified surveyors to help homebuyers assess the condition of a property before making a purchase. However, there are some key differences between the two types of surveys.
A HomeBuyer Report is a mid-range survey that is suitable for conventional properties in a reasonable condition. It includes an inspection of visible and accessible areas of the property, and provides an overall assessment of its condition. It highlights any significant defects or issues that could affect the value of the property and may require attention. The report also includes a valuation of the property and an estimation of the rebuild cost.
On the other hand, a Building Survey is a more comprehensive survey that is suitable for all types of properties, including those that are old, large, or have unusual features. It provides a detailed assessment of the property’s condition and structure, and includes an inspection of all visible and accessible areas. The report includes a description of the property’s construction and materials used, as well as further investigations that may be required.
A Building Survey does not include a valuation of the property.
In summary, a HomeBuyer Report is a mid-range survey suitable for conventional properties in a reasonable condition, while a Building Survey is a more comprehensive survey suitable for all types of properties, particularly older or unusual ones.

What is the purpose of having a Survey carried out?

The purpose of having a survey is to assess the condition of the property and to identify any defects, issues, or potential problems that may affect its value or require attention. Property surveys are typically carried out by qualified surveyors who are trained to identify and report on any defects or issues that may be present.
A survey can provide peace of mind and ensure that buyers and sellers have a full understanding of the condition of the property before making any decisions. It can help buyers avoid any surprises or unexpected expenses down the line, and can provide valuable information for negotiating the purchase price or for planning any necessary repairs or maintenance.

What is the purpose of having a survey?

A property may appear to be in good condition but there may be unpleasant and costly discoveries upon moving in. A survey is carried out to establish that the property is structurally sound and to advise you of any current and potential problems and defects and whether they are serious or to be expected with this type and age of property. Importantly, this knowledge may allow you to renegotiate on the agreed price.

Where can I read your reviews?

You can find reviews on Google as well as in the testimonials on our website home page, selectsurv.co.uk

Who arranges the survey with the seller?

We will ask for the contact details of the selling agent and arrange access with them directly.

Are you regulated?

Yes, we are regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and many other professional bodies, such as CABE. We are Chartered Surveyors and Chartered Building Engineers.

Can I ask you to pay special attention to a particular issue or area of interest?

“Could the surveyor look at the feasibility of extending into the garden or loft?” is a typical question. We are more than happy to try and answer these queries and give any issues you have concerns about extra attention. Please let us know at the time of booking.

Can we talk to the surveyor after the report?

Yes, we can be contacted by phone and email.

Do you check the electrics and gas and other services?

We carry out a visual inspection of the services, however, we are not able to certify the installation and this will need to be carried out by a specialist contractor pre-purchase if the appropriate certification is not already in place.

Do your reports have photos?

Yes, all our reports contain photographs to help you identify any specific problems or defects we may highlight in our surveys.

Does anyone else receive a copy of my report?

The report is sent out to you only, unless you instruct us to send a copy to your solicitor or mortgage broker.

How quickly can you write-up the report?

We aim for a maximum of 3 working days after the inspection day for Homebuyers and 5 working days after inspection for the Building survey.

How quickly will I get my report?

We aim to get your report to you within 3 working days for a Homebuyer Report and within 5 working days for a Building Survey or any other type of report, such as a Valuation or Defects Report.

I have a question which has not been covered.

If you have any questions about your report or our services, please contact us via our contact page at selectsurv.co.uk/contact, or via email at info@selectsurv.co.uk and we will respond to you promptly.

I have already had a Mortgage Valuation. Is there any point of having a further survey done?

While a Mortgage Valuation is a type of survey, it is important to note that its purpose is not the same as that of a HomeBuyer Report or a Building Survey. A Mortgage Valuation is typically carried out by the lender, and its primary purpose is to provide the lender with an estimate of the property’s value, in order to ensure that the loan amount is appropriate for the property being purchased. It does not provide a detailed assessment of the property’s condition or highlight any defects or issues that may be present.
Therefore, even if you have already had a Mortgage Valuation carried out, it is still worthwhile to have a HomeBuyer Report or a Building Survey conducted by a qualified surveyor. These surveys can provide a more detailed assessment of the property’s condition and can identify any defects or issues that may affect the value of the property or require attention. This information can be valuable for negotiating the purchase price or for planning any necessary repairs or maintenance.
Additionally, some lenders may require a separate Structural Survey to be carried out as a condition of the mortgage, particularly for older or unusual properties. Therefore, it is important to check with your lender to see if a survey is required, and to ensure that you choose a survey that meets their requirements if needed.
If the survey report mentions that there may be asbestos materials present in the property, it is important to take this issue seriously and to take appropriate steps to address it. Asbestos is a hazardous material that was commonly used in building materials prior to the 1980s, and can pose a serious health risk if it is not handled properly. Asbestos was banned in 1999.
While many buildings still contain a lot of asbestos materials they are generally safe as long as they are undisturbed. Any asbestos deemed unsafe will need to be inspected and removed by a licensed asbestos contractor. If your surveyor has mentioned asbestos in your report there may also be unseen materials comprising asbestos within the property.

The report highlights dampness. What are my next steps?

In this instance, we may recommend that you undertake further investigations. Our surveys can locate damp problems, but they are non-invasive – walls can’t be opened and fitted floor coverings cannot be removed – and this prevents the surveyor being able to confirm the extent of any dampness. A specialist damp contractor will be able to assess the extent of any damage, any remedial works needed and the cost.

The report mentions that there may be Asbestos materials present. What should I do?

Although asbestos was banned in 1999 it was widely used in a variety of construction materials throughout the 20th century. While many buildings still contain a lot of asbestos materials they are generally safe as long as they are undisturbed. Any asbestos deemed unsafe will need to be inspected and removed by a licenced asbestos contractor. If your surveyor has mentioned asbestos in your report there may also be unseen materials comprising asbestos within the property.

What If I am unhappy with the service?

We aim for the highest levels of customer satisfaction so we’re confident you will be happy with our services. However, if you have any concerns, please write to us in the first instance and we will investigate and respond promptly. If we cannot resolve the problem we will send you our formal complaints procedure with details of the Property Ombudsman.