Building Surveys & RICS HomeBuyer Surveys for Homes in Cambridge & the surrounding areas

 

If buying or selling, we can provide appropriate advice for building surveys and valuations. Whether the property is a medieval listed building or a modern flat, we have the experience to advise on the right type of homebuyer survey report and deliver it promptly. If you have a specific concern about a property, such as a damp problem or other building defects, we can provide tailored advice to address your concern.

 

There are different levels of building survey reports available in formats to suit the particular property. We recommend a bespoke Building Survey Report for older and more complicated properties. This is known as a Level 3 Home Survey. For modern homes built in the 20th century onwards, a more concise Level 2 Home Survey is usually more appropriate.

 

Both reports involve a similar full inspection. The difference is in the report format. Please download more information on the bespoke Building Survey Level 3 and the RICS Building Survey Level 2 Report.

 

A RICS building survey (formerly known as a structural survey)

 

A building survey is a customised service suitable for all residential properties and gives full details of their construction and condition. You are likely to need this type of building survey if, for example, the property is unusually built or run-down, has been significantly altered, or is planning a major conversion or renovation. It is particularly suitable for very old and large houses which could be of various forms of construction. Building surveys are usually tailored to your needs. The building survey report includes detailed technical information on materials and construction, as well as details of the whole range of defects. Read more about building surveys.

 

RICS HomeBuyer Survey Report

 

The RICS HomeBuyer Report (HBR) includes an inspection, a report and a valuation. The HBR is a standard format different from a building survey in three main ways.

 

• It is designed for particular types of homes. These are houses, bungalows and flats that are of a traditional type and construction; and are apparently in reasonable condition.
• A RICS homebuyer survey identifies what the surveyor considers to be the most important issues. By applying condition ratings to elements of the building, the services and any garages and permanent outbuildings, the surveyor will tell you whether defects are serious or urgent.
• It also includes the surveyor's opinion of the market value and reinstatement cost (which you will need for insurance purposes). It focuses on matters that, in the surveyor's opinion, may affect the property's value if they are not dealt with. The RICS homebuyer survey report also includes other valuable information. If required, it can also include a valuation.

 

Alternative HomeBuyer Survey Services

For those looking to sell, we offer vendor surveys designed to be shared with estate agents and prospective buyers, ensuring a more seamless sales process. 

 

If you do not need a comprehensive homebuyer survey and report regarding the whole property but require only advice on specific defects or value, we can tailor a report to meet your needs. Other services we can provide include:

• Valuation Reports

• Preliminary Advice and Inspections

• Party Wall Advice

• Building Defect Advice

• Expert Witness Reports

• Reports for Building Work Disputes

 

Deciding on an RICS Building Survey or RICS HomeBuyer Survey

 

If you are still unsure which type of building survey you need or would like further information about having an RICS homebuyer survey or RICS Building Survey, please contact us at 01223 955339 for informal and friendly advice and a fee quote without any obligation.