Factors to Consider When Choosing the Type of Building Surveys

Getting a thorough building survey from a chartered property surveyor is crucial. It helps home buyers get detailed knowledge about the property’s structure and condition and make an informed decision about buying or leasing a property.

Consulting an experienced and chartered house surveyor near you for a meticulous inspection and evaluation of the property can be the best decision that will ensure you make the right decision to purchase or not to purchase the property in your city.

There are various types of building surveys and a property buyer or seller should understand them to choose the right kind of survey suited to their needs and expectations. Besides, they must know the specific factors to consider when selecting a suitable type of property survey.

Read this article further which explores the different types of property surveys and the factors to consider for selecting a proper building survey service near you that fulfils your requirements.

Types of Property Surveys

Before you hire an experienced residential property surveyor near you for a house survey, you must assess your survey requirements and choose from three different types of surveys. They are the RICS Level-1 Survey or Condition Report, RICS Level-2 Survey or HomeBuyer Report and RICS Level-3 Survey or Building Survey.

RICS Level-1 Survey

A Level-1 Survey is suitable for new or modern homes that are in good condition. It provides a basic overview of the property highlighting any major defects or risks in the property. If your property to be purchased is a new building that looks good, you can engage house surveyors near me to provide you with a basic condition report or Level-1 survey.

RICS Level-2 Survey

A Level-2 survey which was earlier known as HomeBuyer Report is a more detailed report which includes all visible issues like dampness and subsidence. It is recommended for newer homes that are made with common materials and have been in use for a while.

RICS Level-3 Survey

A Level-3 survey, known as a Full Building Survey, is the most comprehensive survey that evaluates all structural issues and visible or non-visible elements of the building within the surveyor’s authority. This kind of survey is recommended for heritage buildings, listed or historical properties or older and complex properties that need renovations.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Type of Building Survey

When selecting a suitable type of property survey, you should consider various factors that will enable you to make the right choice. These factors are the type of property, your purpose of building survey, the condition of the property, and any specific concerns of the buyer.

Know the Property Type

Before you purchase a residential or commercial property, you should know what type of property suits your interests and requirements.  Whether the property is sold and listed, new and fully furnished or a quirky house. If your house to be purchased is newly built, you can choose to hire a residential property surveyor near me for a Level-1 or Level-2 Survey that will provide you with the required information.

If your property is listed or a historical gem, you need a Level-3 survey that will provide you with a detailed building survey highlighting all the structural issues and conditions of the property. Although it is time-consuming and expensive, the expenses are worth it.

Purpose of Building Survey

Your decision to get a condition report, a Homebuyer Report or a Building survey depends upon your specific purpose of the survey. What are the purposes and objectives you want to fulfil and how a survey will fulfil the same?

Whether your goal is to assess the property condition, obtain a fair estimate of the property’s value, or identify potential issues before purchase, each purpose necessitates a tailored approach. A pre-purchase survey might focus on structural integrity, while a valuation survey prioritises market value, guiding buyers in their decision-making process.

Condition of the Property

If it is a listed building or a historical property that is over 100 years old, you may require more comprehensive surveys, such as a full structural survey (RICS Level-3), to uncover hidden problems. Newer properties might only need a basic condition report. Evaluating the property’s state ensures that the chosen survey meets the necessary depth of analysis.

Any Specific Concerns of the Buyer

If you have any specific concerns like environmental issues or energy efficiency, it should not be overlooked. Buyers may have particular worries about aspects like dampness, structural defects, or planning permissions.

Communicating these concerns to your chosen house surveyors near you allows for a customised survey that addresses your needs, ultimately providing peace of mind and ensuring that all critical issues are examined thoroughly.

Takeaway

Considering the importance of property surveys, every property buyer should consider all the factors before choosing the right kind of survey and experienced property surveyors. It helps them make informed decisions and get value for money and peace of mind.