A BUILDING SURVEY

A building survey is suitable for all residential properties and most commercial properties.  It provides a full and detailed picture of the construction and condition.  It is likely to be needed if the property is, for example, of unusual construction, is dilapidated or has been extensively altered – or where a major conversion or renovation is planned.  It is usually tailored to the clients individual requirements and will include technical information on construction and materials as well as details of a whole range of defects both major and minor. This type of report is usually used for a listed property.

MAJOR DEFECT REPORT

This is the most common report carried out by Paul Jewels and the inspection is similar to that of a building survey but the report format is slightly more concise.  It therefore will deal predominantly with defects noted and will not detail within the report each room individually itemising floor, walls, ceilings, windows etc.  The report however does deal with matters relating to (a) on the roof (b) in the roof (c) structural settlement, subsidence, heave, infestation, decay, dampness etc.  Normally speaking all inspection chamber lids for drainage purposes will be lifted and toilets flushed to check drainage runs.  Floor boards will only be lifted where necessary and the report format is therefore slightly more condensed than a full building survey.  This type of report does not normally include a valuation. 

HOMEBUYERS REPORT

This report is suitable for conventional houses, flats, bungalows etc. It is limited in format and is designed to assist a client to make an informed decision before proceeding, to decide whether or not the property is a reasonable purchase at an agreed price and to be clear of what actions should be taken before exchanging contracts.

The Homebuyers Survey and Valuation.  The Homebuyers Survey is in a standard format and is designed specifically as an economy service. If therefore differs materially from a building survey in 2 major respects (a) it is intended only for particular types of homes ie. houses, flats and bungalows which are conventional type in type of construction, apparently reasonable condition.

b) Its focus is on essentials, defects and problems which are urgent or significant and thus have an affect on the value of the property.

The Homebuyer unlike a Building Survey or Major Defect Report will also provide a valuation as an integral part of the service.

SCHEDULE OF CONDITION

A schedule of condition is normally provided where a Lease is involved and provides a schedule of the accurate condition of the property when a tenancy is agreed so that this can be referred to at a future time.  This type of report is normally backed up with photographic evidence.

A VALUATION

This is a limited report and is generally provided for specified lending purposes or for specific purposes such as for probate.