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Please take note of the disclaimer.

House Survey:
(England only)

There are different types of survey and its important that you understand which one is referred to.

• A Valuation survey is carried out for the lender. It merely checks if the property is worth at least the amount to be borrowed, i.e. its good security. This survey may highlight problems but should not be relied upon. You may not even be able to see it.

• The most common type of survey is carried out for the buyer, usually by a surveyor. This will, in theory cover all aspects of the property but will usually contain a number of exclusions. It will be based on a thourough look around but will not include any 'opening up'. Obviously, its not possible to do things like lift floor coverings or dig up drains in this type of survey. The report should, however, include specific pointers for further investigation if this is considered necessary.

• More specialist surveys may be necessary following recommendation from a general survey. This might include a structural survey, a drain survey and checking more closely for dampness and/or rot.

• A Home Information Pack (HIP) is now compulsory and must be compiled by the seller before the property is put on the market. This will include a basic survey.

• An energy survey is now a required part of the HIP.

Major maintenance:

Usually required when part of the building has reached the end of its life so often means complete replacement of, for example, the roof covering, window frames or a boiler. In some cases this can involve partial replacement or extensive repair. The decision as to what to do is often a matter of cost now against expected time to next major maintenance.

Routine maintenance:

This covers the recurring work necessary to keep a building in good condition. Examples are clearing out gutters, painting window frames and boiler maintenance. Neglect of these may reduce the life or the effectiveness of part of the building.

Professional Advice:

If you want advice that you can count on you must employ an appropriate professional.

Firstly you need to find someone who knows what he is talking about. Employing a qualified person should ensure this. For a general house survey you should find a Chartered Surveyor or possibly an Architect who carries out such work. This survey may recommend you to have a structural survey. For this you will need a Chartered Civil or Structural Engineer who undertakes such work.

Secondly you need to have some come-back if it is wrong. A professional should be covered by insurance, either as part of a company or as an individual. Then if anything goes wrong you should have some redress. Of course you have to pay so you have a contract.

You should be able to find suitably qualified people in the area you are interested in by contacting the professional bodies or by enquiring at an Estate Agent in the area.