YOUR CHOICE OF SURVEY

The Homebuyers Survey and Valuation Report (HSV)

An HSV is a service carried out to a standard format, defined by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), designed for properties built after 1900, which are of conventional construction and in reasonable condition.

An HSV includes the following information:

• The property’s general condition
• Any significant defects, in accessible parts of the property, which may affect its value
• Urgent and significant matters that need assessing before entering into exchanging contracts including recommendations for any further specialist inspections
• Results of testing walls for dampness and timbers for damage including woodworm or rot
• Comments on the existence and condition of damp-proofing, insulation and drainage (although the latter will not be tested)
• The recommended reinstatement cost for insurance purposes (the anticipated costs of re-constructing a building in the event of damage by an insured risk eg fire). This is not the same as the market value of the property
• The value of the property on the open market

An HSV is not a detailed survey of every aspect of the property and focuses only on significant and urgent matters. It is not suitable for properties built before 1900, those in need of renovation or that you are planning to extend.

Building Survey

A building survey is a comprehensive inspection suitable for all properties but especially recommended for:

• All listed buildings
• Those built before 1900
• Any building constructed in an unusual way regardless of age
• Properties you are planning to renovate or alter in any way
• Properties which have already had extensive alterations

A building survey involves a detailed examination of all accessible parts of a property and can be tailor-made to suit your individual needs and concerns.

A building survey includes the following:

• All major and minor faults
• The implications of any defects and the possible cost of repairs
• Results of testing walls for dampness and timbers for damage including woodworm or rot
• Comments on the existence and condition of damp-proofing, insulation and drainage (although the latter will not be tested)
• Extensive technical information on the construction of the property and details about materials used in construction
• Information on the location
• Recommendations for any further specialist inspections

A building survey does not include a valuation, although your surveyor should be able to provide a separate valuation report if required.

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