Count On Our RICS Chartered Building Surveyors

If you are leasing the property then a Schedule of Condition is a must as this forms a record of the condition to protect you at the end of the lease from Dilapidations Claims for repairs that you aren't liable for within the lease agreement.

There are three main Residential RICS survey levels to choose from:

• RICS Level 1 (Condition Report): A basic overview that identifies urgent issues.

• RICS Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report): Offers a more in-depth assessment, including advice on necessary repairs and ongoing maintenance.

• RICS Level 3 (Building Survey): The most detailed report, ideal for older or complex properties, providing a thorough analysis of all visible and accessible parts of the property.

Whilst you may need more specialist surveys such as a:

• Historic Building Survey: A bespoke survey providing advice from Listed Buildings

• Damp and Timber Survey: Offers an in-depth assessment of damp issues

• Structural Survey: A detailed report about structural integrity, Stability, Cracks and Subsidence

• Commercial Building Surveys: A report ideal for commercial properties, providing a thorough analysis of all visible and accessible parts of the property.

• Schedule of Condition: A commercial survey for those about to undertake building work or lease and building and they need an accurate record of the condition.

These options help you find the right survey based on the property’s age, size, and condition.

Yes, it is highly advisable. A pre-purchase property survey offers essential insights into a property's condition, allowing you to identify any hidden issues and make an informed decision. By understanding potential repair costs, you can better assess if the property is worth the investment.

Choosing a trusted, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). An RICS-accredited surveyor ensures quality and expertise with Chartered Building Surveyors who offer detailed and professional reports tailored to your needs.

A surveyor may have varying levels of experience, whereas a Chartered Surveyor has completed rigorous training and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Chartered Surveyors follow strict professional standards, ensuring a high-quality, reliable service.

Typically, clients can expect to receive their survey report within a five working days after the inspection dependant on the size and complexity of the property. AMS Surveys aims to deliver prompt results to keep your property purchase on track.

Absolutely. If the survey report uncovers issues that weren't previously disclosed, you may be able to negotiate the price or request that the seller address certain repairs. This can be valuable in securing a fair purchase price that reflects the property's actual condition. Most of our surveys have budget costs allowing you to fully understand the potential cost impact and what and how much to negotiate.

To prepare for a property survey, ensure that the surveyor has clear access to all areas of the property, including lofts, basements, and any outdoor structures. It’s also helpful to gather any documents related to previous repairs or surveys. This preparation helps the surveyor complete a thorough inspection and provides a clear history of the property.

If a survey reveals serious issues, such as structural damage or extensive damp, you may have several options. You could negotiate a lower purchase price, request that the seller make repairs, or decide not to proceed with the purchase. A detailed survey report from a trusted surveyor will provide clear information to help you make a confident decision. Don't worry AMS Surveys are always on hand to help organise and oversee building work to ensure its carried out correctly.

The cost of a listed building survey in the UK varies based on factors such as the property's size, age, condition, location, and complexity. Generally, prices start from around £990 and can exceed £2,500 for more extensive assessments and the expertise of the Listed Building Heritage Surveyor. For instance, AMS Surveys offer listed building surveys starting from £1,000 plus VAT, with the final price influenced by location, size, property type, and value.

A heritage surveyor specialises in the assessment, conservation, and management of historic or listed buildings and sites. They work to preserve the cultural and architectural integrity of heritage properties, ensuring that any renovations, repairs, or developments respect the property's historic value and comply with regulations. Here’s a closer look at what a heritage surveyor typically does:

1. Conduct Historical Research: Heritage surveyors begin by researching the building's history, architectural details, and previous modifications to fully understand its cultural significance.

2. Condition Assessments: They inspect the property for structural issues, decay, dampness, and other problems that could affect its longevity. This includes evaluating materials and construction methods unique to historic properties.

3. Conservation Planning: Heritage surveyors develop tailored conservation plans to restore or preserve historic features using appropriate materials and techniques, often recommending specialists in traditional building skills.

4. Compliance and Regulations: They ensure that any proposed alterations align with local and national heritage regulations. In the UK, they work closely with authorities like Historic England to secure necessary permissions.

5. Liaison with Stakeholders: Heritage surveyors coordinate with property owners, architects, planners, and conservation officers to plan and execute preservation projects, balancing preservation goals with modern usage needs.

6. Documentation and Reporting: They produce detailed reports, documenting the building’s current condition, historical significance, and recommendations for maintenance or restoration.

Hiring a heritage surveyor is crucial for anyone working with listed or historic buildings, as they provide the expertise to maintain the property’s heritage value while allowing for sustainable use.

A commercial building surveyor provides expert advice and services related to the maintenance, acquisition, renovation, and management of commercial properties. Their role encompasses a range of responsibilities focused on ensuring that commercial buildings are safe, compliant, and fit for purpose. Here’s an overview of what a commercial building surveyor typically does:

1. Building Condition Surveys: They conduct thorough assessments of commercial properties to evaluate structural integrity, identify issues like damp, roof damage, or wear and tear, and assess the overall condition of the building.

2. Dilapidations and Lease Advice: For leased commercial properties, surveyors provide guidance on dilapidations—issues related to the tenant’s obligation to maintain or repair the property before lease expiry. They help landlords and tenants understand their responsibilities and negotiate repair settlements.

3. Pre-Acquisition Surveys: Before a commercial property purchase, surveyors perform pre-acquisition surveys to identify defects, estimate repair costs, and ensure buyers understand the property’s condition and any risks involved.

4. Project Management and Refurbishments: Surveyors may manage refurbishment projects, overseeing design, budgeting, and construction to ensure the building meets commercial standards and requirements for its intended use, whether retail, office, or industrial.

5. Compliance and Regulatory Advice: They advise on compliance with building regulations, fire safety standards, accessibility, and health and safety regulations to ensure that properties are legally sound and safe for occupants.

6. Building Pathology and Defect Analysis: When issues arise, such as structural cracks or water ingress, commercial surveyors diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate remedies, preventing minor issues from becoming costly repairs.

7. Maintenance Planning: Surveyors assist property owners in developing maintenance schedules to extend the building’s lifespan, prioritise repairs, and budget for future maintenance needs.

A commercial building surveyor brings essential expertise to the management of commercial properties, supporting safe, compliant, and cost-effective operation for landlords, tenants, and investors alike.

The cost of a commercial building survey in the UK is influenced by several key factors, including the property’s size, complexity, location, and the scope of the survey required. On average, fees range from £1,200 plus VAT for smaller, straightforward properties such as small offices or shops, to £5,000 plus VAT or more for larger, complex properties like office blocks or hotels.

Most commercial property surveyors charge between £800 to £2,000 per day depending on their expertise, travel requirements, and the building’s specific needs. For example, based on an average daily rate of £950 per day:

• A small commercial building survey might take approximately 1.5 days, resulting in an estimated cost of £1,425 plus VAT.

• A larger commercial property could take 10+ days, with costs increasing accordingly, potentially reaching upwards of £9,500 plus VAT.

Each project is unique, so for a precise estimate, it’s best to consult a local chartered commercial building surveyor, who can provide a detailed quote based on your property’s individual requirements.

Yes, If you are considering purchasing a commercial property, a survey can help you identify any potential problems with the property, such as structural defects or environmental hazards. This information can help you negotiate a lower price for the property or make informed decisions about repairs or renovations.

If you are leasing the property then a Schedule of Condition is a must as this forms a record of the condition to protect you at the end of the lease from Dilapidations Claims for repairs that you aren't liable for within the lease agreement.