Surveys

AHN Surveyors offers a range of different Home Survey and Building Survey reports for your needs and budget. It is important that you choose the right survey so that you are aware of all potential risks prior to purchase or disposal.

Surveys highlight any defects that may not be immediately obvious when viewing a property. There could be hidden defects such as structural movement, wet or dry rot, problems with the roof and issues such as damp and condensation. These sorts of problems often get worse over time and could be an expensive problem to fix after you have moved in.

If you are unsure about which survey to choose then we are happy to help and to guide you through the process.

We offer the following types of surveys:

Level 2 Home Report (commonly known as a HomeBuyer report)

This type of report is suitable for most conventionally built residential properties, constructed since around 1900. Properties that are unusual by virtue of their design or construction, or those that are particularly large, converted or extended and altered would require a more detailed report, such as a Level 3 Building Survey. We will advise you further in this respect, during our initial discussion. The information is provided in a simple and straight forward layout, which is easy to read and understand. The report is based on a visual inspection of as much of the interior and exterior of the building as is reasonably and safely accessible. The Home Report is fully compliant with RICS Home Survey Standard (as required by 1st September 2021).

The Home Report includes:

Comments on the internal and external condition of the property, including an overview of the service installations
Comments on any major defects or other shortcomings likely to affect your decision to purchase the property
Comments on the overall condition of any permanent outbuildings and in relation to the site
Any particular points or issues that you should refer to your legal adviser.

Level 3 Building Survey Report (commonly known as a full structural survey)

This type of report is suitable for all types of buildings but is advised if the property is pre-1900, Listed, in need of extensive repairs or if it is constructed using non-traditional building methods and materials. The service consists of a detailed visual inspection of the building, its services and the grounds and is more extensive than a Home Survey Level 2. Concealed areas normally opened or used by the occupiers are inspected if it is safe to do so. Although the services are not tested, they are observed in normal operation. The report objectively describes the form of construction and materials used for different parts of the property and their condition.

It provides an assessment of the relative importance of the defects/problems. Additionally, it will describe the identifiable risk of potential or hidden defects in areas not inspected and propose the most probable cause of the defects, based on the inspection; outline the likely scope of any appropriate remedial work and explain the likely consequences of non-repair; make general recommendations in respect of the priority and likely timescale for necessary work.

The Building Survey Report includes:

Detailed description of the structure and main components
Diagnosis and details of defects and remedial options
Details of suspected defects with advice for investigation and repair
Points for your legal adviser to check, Other relevant considerations concerning safety, locality, environmental considerations

Both of the surveys have the options to include a valuation section.