Frequently Asked Questions

The scope of the survey depends on both the characteristics of the property and the level of detail you desire. We invite you to contact us for advice and to discuss any questions or concerns about the property you're considering.

• Level 1 offers a fundamental review, ideal for new constructions, providing a basic assessment of the property.

• Level 2 is designed for a broad range of properties, offering a comprehensive examination to furnish you with a clear understanding of the property's condition, necessary repairs, and addresses specific issues you might have. Well-suited for most apartments.

• Level 3 is recommended for older buildings, those with complex structures, or properties with deferred maintenance. It provides an exhaustive evaluation, covering all potential aspects and is highly recommended if you have significant concerns about the property's overall state.

The key distinction lies in the amount of detail and guidance offered, impacting the duration spent on-site, as well as throughout the editing and follow-up stages.

A Level 2 survey typically suffices for properties that appear in good condition or for apartments.

However, for older properties or if there are specific concerns, a Level 3 survey is advised. For a comprehensive comparison of what is included or excluded in each survey level, please refer to the detailed table provided on this page.

We aim to minimise the lead-time to under a week. Please call to verify availability in your area, as we might have an opening due to a cancellation.

We request that you send us the following information via email: the complete address of the property, the selling agent's details, the purchase price, your full name, address, email, and phone number, the level of survey you're interested in, and any particular issues or concerns you may have.

You have the option to cancel or reschedule the survey up to 72 hours before the visit. This timeframe helps us to organize another survey for the now-available slot.

Our goal is to send you the report via email within two working days following the visit. However, during periods of high workload, the delivery might extend to a maximum of one week. Should there be any delay, we are open to discussing the key findings with you over the phone to provide an overview of the main points identified.

Along with the report, an invoice will be provided, payable via bank transfer or PayPal.

If you're securing a mortgage, it's probable that your lender will perform their own property valuation, which we recommend you inquire about. Should you need an alternative, numerous companies offer valuation services remotely. Additionally, a variety of general practice surveyors are available to provide services including party wall negotiations/agreements and project management. Structural engineers are also accessible for assessing particular concerns, such as significant cracking or structural movement. Please contact us for your exact needs.

Level 1 Survey – we will inspect any accessible roof space from the ladder.

Level 2/3 Survey – if safe to do so, we will attempt to fully access the roof space.

We may move small lightweight items (such as a storage box) but do not move any boarding or insulation. We will also look at the roof from the ground (gardens and accessible public areas) using binoculars and if appropriate a pole camera.

Yes, we do examine for signs of structural movement.
It's common to encounter wall cracks in many properties, and we will provide insights into their potential causes, as well as advise on whether they are of structural concern requiring further expert consultation.

This inspection partly relies on visual observation, touch, and smell.
In a standard survey, we employ a non-invasive electronic damp meter to check for damp in accessible areas, without moving furniture, conducting invasive tests, or collecting samples. Should damp be detected, our report will include appropriate recommendations.

For properties constructed prior to 2000, there's a possibility that materials containing asbestos are present. During a survey, we'll pinpoint potential asbestos-containing materials without performing sampling tests. Locations of these materials will be detailed in our report.
For an additional fee we can provide accurate laboratory testing to confirm the presence of asbestos.

On level 2 and level 3 surveys we can provide approximations for remedial work.

Please see our Terms of Engagement below, which likely address any queries not mentioned in this document. Should you have further questions, we encourage you to contact us via phone or email; we're eager to assist you. The survey will be conducted by one of our surveyors, each of whom brings both extensive experience and qualifications to their work. Additionally, all work is protected by Professional Indemnity insurance and Public Liability insurance.