Full Building Survey

Formally known as a Full Structural Survey, this report contains technical information on the construction and structure following a comprehensive inspection of all accessible parts of a property.

It will identify defects and comment on their significance, point out the potential for future problems and provide recommendations for remedial or preventive works. The report may suggest further investigations or exploratory works where the extent of a defect or suspected defect cannot be determined from the initial inspection.

This is the most comprehensive type of survey. It is suitable for any building, but is especially recommended for older buildings (75 years and upwards); those constructed out of unconventional materials such as timber or thatch; and properties which have had lots of alterations or extensions, or which you intend to alter or renovate.

We will carry out a thorough inspection, looking at everything that is visible or accessible by the use of a three meter ladder to examine the soundness of the structure, its general condition and all major or minor faults. More specialist surveys can also be carried out on aspects such as foundations, damp proofing, or tree roots, if so required.

The report you receive will be extremely thorough and very long, as surveyors are legally obliged to inform you of all the findings of the survey. Don't necessarily be put off if it seems that endless defects are listed - every house has some defects and surveyors tend to show the worst-case scenario for anything they discover. You will be provided with a list of prices for repairs and maintenance work, with budget costings based on a worse case scenario.

The consumer organisation Which? and the Council of Mortgage Lenders recommend that you get a survey carried out before you enter in to a legally binding contract to purchase. In order to fully fulfil your requirements the Full Building Survey can be tailored to suit the needs of each individual Client.

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