Which Building Survey Do I Need?

Building surveys assess a property’s condition, helping buyers identify structural issues and make informed decisions before purchase.
There are three main types: the basic Condition Report (Level 1), more detailed Home Buyer Report (Level 2), and the comprehensive Full Building Survey (Level 3), each suited to different property types and conditions.
Choosing the right survey depends on the property’s age, condition, and complexity, with older or unusual buildings typically requiring a Level 3 survey.
Surveys offer vital benefits, including uncovering hidden problems, strengthening negotiation power, and providing peace of mind before committing to a property.

A building survey is a crucial step when buying a property. These surveys assess the condition of the building and allow you to get an in-depth picture of its state before you commit to purchasing it.

However, there are several different types of building surveys available so it’s important that you choose the right one for your needs.

In this article, we’ll cover the main sorts of building surveys, what their benefits are, and how to select the most appropriate one.

survey

What Are Building Surveys?

A building survey is a thorough assessment of a property’s condition that is carried out by a chartered surveyor. Depending on the level of survey, this trained professional will look at different elements of the exterior and interior property, and may also make suggestions depending on the survey you have chosen.

These surveys can identify structural issues and maintenance problems, allowing you to factor future costs into your purchase and make a more informed decision.

The Three Types of Building Survey

Level One: Condition Report

This is the most basic report, covering any obvious defects, urgent problems or potential legal issues that need addressing.
This overview survey is typically most suitable for modern homes in good condition, conventional buildings, and properties that are no older than 50 years old.
Electrics, plumbing and central heating systems will not be assessed at this level and nor will you receive advice about correcting any detected faults.

Level Two: Home Buyer Report

This report takes a more detailed approach than the previous level, providing a more descriptive insight into the building’s condition. It will identify areas that may require a more specialist report but it will not provide advice on the discovered issues.
The Home Buyer Report survey is suitable for homes no older than 50 years old, that are conventional in style, or are in reasonable condition.
This survey only reports on visible issues and will not address anything hidden, such as under floorboards. It also won’t generate an Energy Performance Certificate or identify asbestos that may be present in the building.

Level Three: Full Building Survey

A full and comprehensive survey that examines structural condition, visual issues and hidden problems. Advice on repair choices and timelines will be included, as will insight into the consequences of ignoring any problems.
This examination is most suitable for homes older than 50 years, more unusual buildings, or properties that are obviously in a poor condition.
While this report is extensive and comprehensive, the surveyor will not force entry into any hidden areas that the occupier hasn’t granted permission for, such as tearing up fitted carpets. They will also not risk injury or harm while carrying out a survey.

Why Should I Get a Building Survey?

Whether you’re buying a domestic or commercial property, a building survey is an unmissable step in the purchasing chain.

The benefits of a building survey include:

Identifying hidden problems that may not be immediately obvious such as damp, structural issues or subsidence. Discovering their location and severity allows repairs to be made quickly before they get worse.
Knowledge is power. With a detailed report under your belt, you will have more leverage during negotiations. This will enable you to adjust the asking price or request that repairs be carried out before you move in.
The best advantage of a building survey is the peace of mind it will give you, knowing the full ins and outs of the property you are about to purchase. This provides reassurance, whether you’re purchasing a family home or a commercial property.

The most important step is to ensure a chartered surveyor has been hired to carry out the survey. Our specialists are here to assist with all your property needs, drawing from our 25 years of industry experience.

Benefit from a comprehensive building survey with Aedifice. We’re an independent and highly professional team of chartered surveyors and property consultants, specialising in healthcare, education, care homes and residential and commercial buildings. We make sure you know a property inside out before purchasing and are here to advise clients across the country, so please get in touch.