When we decide to buy a house, we’re not just purchasing brick and mortar; we’re investing in a future home. As such, securing a house survey before finalising the purchase is a crucial step. This process involves a professional surveyor conducting a thorough inspection of the property to identify any structural problems or necessary repairs, which helps us make an informed decision. However, it’s equally important to be aware of what a typical house survey does not include, as this might affect our expectations and budget planning.
House surveys come in different forms, with varying levels of detail. The Condition Report (Level 1 Home Survey) provides a basic overview of the property’s condition, the HomeBuyer Report ( Level 2 Home Survey) delves into more detail and includes a market valuation, while the Building Survey (Level 3 Home Survey) is the most comprehensive, analysing the structure’s condition extensively.
Each type of survey can highlight problems like chimney defects, damp, or structural issues, and may also advise on potential maintenance work. We should choose the type carefully based on the age, condition, and type of property we are considering.
There are some limitations to these surveys. More basic surveys do not cover parts of the property that are not readily accessible or visible. This means things hidden behind walls or under floors may go unchecked unless there’s a clear indication of an underlying issue. Plus, specialised concerns such as electrical wiring, gas, and plumbing are typically outside the scope of a standard house survey, necessitating separate checks by certified professionals. Despite this, Survey Hut offers a Level 3 MAX Home Survey, that includes testing and checking services, such as hot water and heating systems
Understanding the full scope of house surveys enables us to take proactive steps to ensure our perfect home is both safe and sound.
Components of a House Survey
When we conduct a house survey, we focus on assessing the property’s condition to ensure its safety and soundness. Our investigations particularly look into structural issues, any major faults that might need repair, as well as issues related to dampness and insulation.
Structural Issues
Firstly, we check the robustness of the house’s structure. Our objective is to ensure that the essential elements of the building are stable and secure. We look for signs of cracks or movement that may affect the overall safety and longevity of the property.
- Roofing: Checking tiles, flashings, and the general condition.
- Chimney: Checking for penetrating damp and damage to chimney pots
- Windows and Doors: Testing for penetrating damp
If we find issues, we will recommend further investigation or immediate repairs to prevent future complications.
Damp and Insulation Issues
Lastly, we address damp and insulation issues by:
- Using a protimeter to check for damp.
- Inspecting for visible signs of damp, such as mould or watermarks.
- Evaluating the insulation in the attic.
- Identifying any potential condensation problems.
- Checking the effectiveness of existing damp-proofing measures.
With these factors thoroughly checked, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the home’s condition and any necessary upkeep.
Types of House Surveys
When considering a house survey, it’s crucial to understand the different types available to us. Each type offers various levels of detail, suited to our specific needs.
Condition Report
A Condition Report is the most basic survey we can choose, offering a clear and concise overview of the property’s condition. It’s particularly useful for newer homes or those in a generally good state of repair. This report will highlight urgent defects using a traffic light system: green for no issues, amber for concerns that may need attention, and red for serious defects.
HomeBuyer Report
The HomeBuyer Report is a step up, including all the features of a Condition Report but with more detail. It covers all the major sections of a house and identifies not only urgent defects but also problems that may affect the property’s value. We’ll see issues such as damp and basic structural problems highlighted, and the report also includes advice on repairs and maintenance.
Building Survey
For a more comprehensive analysis, we opt for a Building Survey, especially when dealing with larger, older, or rundown properties. This in-depth survey provides us with a thorough examination of the property’s structure and condition. It covers a wide range of issues, from major to minor defects. Plus, it includes advice on repairs, estimated costs, and often information on potential maintenance issues.
Extras and Additions
When we book a house survey, we want to ensure it’s as thorough as possible. However, there are certain aspects that aren’t typically covered in a standard survey. Here’s where Survey Hut goes above and beyond to ensure your peace of mind:
Hidden Defects
A standard house survey might not uncover every defect, especially those that are not visible or easily accessible. To investigate hidden defects, you might need to request a more detailed structural survey or a specific investigational work. Examples of hidden defects include:
- Sub-floor problems inaccessible without lifting the flooring.
- Internal wall issues concealed by plaster or other finishes.
- Roofing issues not visible without in-depth inspection.
Whilst we don’t carry out specific structural surveys, we use a drone and a thermal imaging camera to investigate those hidden areas that might otherwise go undetected. We can also test the services and check the hot water and heating systems, providing an added level of detail to our reports.
Future Maintenance Costs
Estimating future maintenance costs is typically outside the scope of most surveys, but they are crucial for our long-term budgeting. Whilst you may wish to consult additional professionals who can provide a detailed forecast, we can provide initial advice on further investigations and the repair of hidden defects.
Property Valuation
While some surveys include a property valuation, it’s not a given. Our surveys can include a valuation, which provides a comprehensive market analysis. A valuation can help us with:
- Understanding your investment’s worth.
Get in touch with Survey Hut today for a comprehensive Level 2 or Level 3 Home Survey. We are held to the highest professional standards by the RICS, so you know that you’ll get a high-quality report. Make sure your perfect home, is perfect.
