Structural Surveys: What You Need to Know Before Buying
Buying a home is a significant investment, and ensuring that your prospective property is in good condition is crucial. This is where a structural survey comes into play. Whether you’re buying an older home or a newly built property, a survey provides essential information about the structural integrity of the building. Here’s everything you need to know about structural surveys before making your purchase.
What is a Structural Survey?
A structural survey is the most comprehensive type of survey you can get when buying a property. It is a thorough inspection of the structural integrity of the building, covering everything from the foundations to the roof. The survey is typically carried out by a chartered surveyor or a structural engineer and includes a detailed report on any structural issues or defects found during the inspection, often referred to as a property survey.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) sets the standards for conducting a structural survey. A RICS survey ensures that the survey is thorough and provides a reliable assessment of the property’s condition.
Types of Surveys
When considering a survey, it’s important to understand the different survey types available, including the RICS home survey. The most common are the house survey, building survey, homebuyer survey, and structural survey.
- Level 1: RICS Level 1 surveys are basic inspections suitable for newer properties without significant issues.
- Level 2: RICS Level 2 or Homebuyer Reports are more detailed and suitable for standard properties in reasonable condition.
- Level 3: The RICS Level 3 Building Survey is the most comprehensive, often referred to as a full structural survey. This survey is ideal for older or larger properties, or those with potential structural defects.
Each survey type varies in scope and cost. The choice of survey depends on the type of property you are buying and the level of detail you require in the valuation.
When Do You Need a Structural Survey?
You may need a structural survey service if you’re purchasing an older property, a building that has undergone significant alterations, or if you’re simply concerned about potential structural problems. A full structural survey is advisable for listed buildings, properties with unusual designs, or homes located in areas prone to subsidence or other structural issues that require a detailed condition report.
What Does a Structural Survey Include?
A structural survey includes a detailed inspection of the property’s key structural elements, such as the foundations, walls, roof, floors, and any extensions or additions. The survey will also assess the structural integrity of the property, identifying any defects or structural problems that may require attention.
The survey report provided by the surveyor will include a comprehensive analysis of the property’s condition, along with recommendations for any necessary repairs or further investigations in a home survey.
The Cost of a Structural Survey
The cost of a structural survey can vary depending on several factors, including the size of the property, its location, and the level of detail required. On average, a structural survey cost can range from several hundred to several thousand pounds, depending on the level 3 survey required. It’s important to obtain survey quotes from multiple surveyors to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
The survey cost is a small price to pay compared to the potential expense of addressing structural defects that go unnoticed in your property valuation. In some cases, the survey cost may be factored into your mortgage arrangement, so it’s worth discussing this with your lender.
How to Choose a Surveyor
Choosing a qualified surveyor is essential to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your structural survey. Look for a RICS chartered surveyor or a structural engineer with experience in conducting structural surveys. A chartered surveyor is a professional who has met the high standards set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and is qualified to perform a condition report.
When selecting a surveyor, consider their qualifications, experience, and reputation in conducting home surveys. It’s also wise to discuss the scope of the property survey and any specific concerns you may have about the property.
Benefits of a Full Structural Survey
A full structural survey offers numerous benefits to homebuyers. It provides peace of mind by identifying any potential structural issues before you commit to the purchase. The survey can also be used as a bargaining tool, allowing you to negotiate the cost of necessary repairs or even adjust the purchase price based on the findings.
A full structural survey is especially beneficial when buying older properties or homes with known structural issues, ensuring you’ll need to address any problems before finalizing your purchase. It ensures that you are fully aware of the property’s condition and any future maintenance or repair needs.
Understanding Survey Reports
The survey report is a critical document that outlines the findings of the structural survey. It includes details about the property’s condition, any structural defects identified, and recommendations for repairs or further investigations. The report will also indicate whether the property is safe to live in and if it meets building regulations.
The survey report is an invaluable resource for making an informed decision about your property purchase. It provides a clear understanding of any structural problems that may affect the property’s value or require immediate attention.
The Role of a Structural Engineer
In some cases, a structural engineer may be required to assess specific structural issues identified during the survey. A structural engineer is a professional who specializes in the design and analysis of structural systems, often involved in conducting home surveys. They can provide expert advice on the severity of any structural defects and recommend appropriate repairs or reinforcements.
Working with a structural engineer is particularly important if the survey reveals significant structural problems that could impact the safety or stability of the property.
Conclusion
A structural survey is an essential step in the home-buying process. It provides a comprehensive assessment of the property’s structural integrity, helping you make an informed decision about your purchase. Whether you’re buying a new home or an older property, a full structural survey offers peace of mind and protects your investment. Contact AAAPWS a new to book a structural surveyor, If you are considering buying an old or new house.
