There are really only two kinds of survey: one you have before you buy, so you understand the condition, and cost of what you are taking on. Then there’s one you have when you own the building, to plan what to do with it. Everything else is a closer look at a particular problem. Start with where you are now.
Before you buy
I’m buying
Choose the survey for the kind of building:
It’s a listed building (any grade)
Includes the listing and planning history.
It’s any other old or period home
Our full building survey – what others may call a structural or Level 3 survey.
Has your lender, or a valuation surveyor asked for a timber & damp report? Read this first →
Once you own it
I already own it
Choose by what you need to know:
I’m planning repairs or maintenance
There’s damp, mould or rot
I’m worried about heat loss or hidden moisture
I can’t see the roof or chimneys
There’s a specific defect: frame, cavity wall, flooding, insulation
Advice without a full survey
A telephone or on-site consultation on a specific question. Telephone consultations are £250.
Support with repairs, listed building consent, specifications and project management.
A survey missed something, a repair has failed, or there is a dispute.
At a glance
| Survey | Best for | When |
|---|---|---|
| Listed building survey | Listed buildings of any grade | Before you buy |
| Timber-framed building survey | Timber-framed houses, barns and cottages | Before you buy |
| Old & period property survey | Any older home built with traditional materials | Before you buy |
| Condition & maintenance survey | Planning repairs and upkeep | Once you own it |
| Timber & damp survey | Damp, mould and timber decay | Any time |
| Thermal imaging survey | Heat loss and hidden moisture | Any time |
| Drone survey | Roofs, chimneys and high-level details | Any time |
Still not sure?
Tell us about the building – the address and an agent’s link if you are buying – and we’ll recommend the right survey and confirm the fee. Or call head office on 01746 862 640.