Services

A description of the service is set out below.

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The report we prepare tells you:

• about the construction of the property and the history of its development as far as could be ascertained.

• about the condition of the property on the date it was inspected.

• any limitations that we experienced during the course of the inspection, and the nature of risks that may be present in those areas

• the nature of any significant defects that were found.

• in a Building Survey only, how to approach rectification of defects identified.

• in a Building Survey only, about elements of the property that will require more frequent or costly maintenance than would normally be expected.

• In a Buy-To-Let Survey only, about matters that could affect the health and safety of tenants occupying the property.

• whether more enquiries or investigations are needed.

 

The report we prepare does not tell you/provide:
 

• the market value of the property or matters that will be considered when a market valuation is provided.

• the insurance reinstatement/rebuild cost, or the cost of carrying out repairs or improvements.

• about the nature or condition of any part of the property that is/was specifically excluded from the inspection by prior arrangement not accessible or visible using normal and accepted surveying practices not accessible or visible for health or safety reasons

• about any minor defects that would be anticipated in a property of the type and age being inspected - the nature of such minor defects will vary between property types.

• details of defects that would normally be categorised as wear and tear or which would normally be dealt with as a matter of routine maintenance.

 

How the survey is carried out
 

We follow the current RPSA Survey Inspection and Reporting Standards for the appropriate survey type. We carry out a thorough visual and non-invasive inspection of the inside and outside of the main building and all permanent outbuildings, recording the construction and defects (both major and minor) that are evident. This inspection is intended to cover as much of the property as reasonably physically accessible. Where this is not possible an explanation is provided in the relevant sections of the report.

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We do not force or open up the fabric of the property or make any physical changes to the property when carrying out the survey. This includes not taking up fitted carpets, fitted floor coverings or floorboards, moving heavy furniture, removing the contents of cupboards, wardrobes, and/or roof spaces, moving valuable or delicate objects, etc., operating old, damaged, corroded or delicate fixtures and fittings, removing secured panels and/or hatches or undoing electrical fittings. Under-floor areas are inspected only where there is safe and clear access. If necessary, we carry out parts of the inspection when standing at ground level from the adjoining public property where accessible. This means the extent of the inspection will depend on a range of individual circumstances at the time of inspection, and we judge each case on an individual basis.

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We use equipment such as a moisture meter, binoculars and a torch, and may use a ladder or extended camera pole to obtain views of flat roofs and to access hatches or obtain views no more than 3m above ground (outside) or above-floor surfaces

 

 

These are actual or potential health and safety risks identified at the property which you should consider carefully. In some instances, a matter which has been identified will require specific testing of services such as electricity or gas to confirm that they are safe to use, but in other instances, the report may refer to hazards for which there is an increased risk of harm to those using the property. The level of risk may depend on a number of factors including the age, mobility and vulnerability of occupants. You should consider any health and safety matters identified within this report and commission any further tests or investigations prior to the exchange of contracts if you are purchasing the property. You should also consider how the risks identified may affect you or your personal use of the property.