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A property purchase is one of the most significant investment decisions you can make. With such a large financial commitment at stake, it’s important to stay well informed throughout the decision-making process. A Building Survey will help you achieve this by providing you with a detailed report about the structural condition of the flat or house you are about to buy. Having all the necessary facts at your disposal enables you to make the right choice when it comes to the purchase decision.
Why Should I Get a Building Survey?
The UK housing market operates under caveat emptor, or “buyer beware”, meaning that property sellers are not obliged to disclose any information about defects or ongoing problems with the building or land. Instead, it is up to the buyer to uncover these issues before signing their contract, or else take full responsibility for attending to urgent faults upon taking ownership.
It’s a common misconception that a mortgage valuation will report on any defects in the property you are about to buy. To fully understand the condition of any building, it is essential to commission a survey, carried out by a qualified professional. Armed with the results of their investigation, you can make an informed decision about whether you are happy to proceed with the purchase or would prefer to re-negotiate with the seller.
What Does a Building Survey Cover?
Our Building Surveys are detailed inspections, and will report not only on any defects we find, but make suggestions and advice about how to make repairs, when they should be carried out and how much we estimate they will cost. A Building Survey typically investigates;
- The presence of damp and other ventilation issues
- Structural movement including subsidence and settlement
- Inspection of the internal and external roof structure including chimneys
- The condition of walls, windows and doors (internal and external)
- Damage to timber, including insect infestations and decay
- Checking the services and utilities, including sewage, drainage, heating, electrics, gas, oil and the boiler
- Alterations, conversions and extensions
- Health and Safety concerns, such as asbestos or lead
- Grounds, outbuildings and boundary lines
- Listed Building Consent, Planning Permission and Building Regulation issues
- Council information and energy efficiency advice
Some buyers believe that with newer properties there is no need to have a survey carried out. It’s important to remember that housebuilders are only human and mistakes can be made. A more recent build does not give any guarantees of quality, so it can still be extremely important to have one of our Modern Home Surveys conducted.

Request a Survey Quotation Today
You’ll get over 40 years experience and the best value for money with Alan Rance surveyors. Call us today on 01525 220786