RICS Building Survey

What is a RICS Building Survey?

The RICS Building Survey is the most detailed survey we offer. It is particularly suited to older buildings, unusual construction, or those with major extensions or alterations. The RICS Building Survey is also the best choice where you know there are significant defects that need attention.

The report will provide details on the materials and methods of construction, advice on defects and the appropriate repair options. Where the RICS HomeBuyer Report is suited to modern properties of standard construction, the RICS Building Survey is specifically designed for properties of virtually any age, style or condition.

Many older properties have distinct needs in terms of how they must be looked after and their components need a different approach to more modern buildings. It is essential to understand this to preserve and enhance the value of your investment. Listed buildings or those in conservation areas need specific care and use of correct materials and techniques. If you are planning to purchase an older property that's run down, or a building that has had major alterations, then this is the report for you.

If you have plans to alter the structure of the property this can often form part of the advice provided. If you plan to make a substantial investment in a property of age or character then this report is an important safeguard.

Will this be right for me?

Building Surveys are conducted by Chartered Surveyors. It is important to know that the surveyors you receive free instant quotes from through MyLocalSurveyor are all regulated by RICS and the RICS set the guidance for surveyors to ensure that the advice you are getting is independent, and expert advice from appropriately trained professionals.

You can get a Free Instant Quote from RICS Chartered Surveyors through the MyLocalSurveyor platform in under 30 seconds.

Full Building Surveys are particularly appropriate for:

• Listed Buildings – a building that is on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest
• Older Properties – recommended for properties over 50 years old
• Buildings constructed in an unusual way, regardless of age
• Buildings that you intend to renovate or change
• Buildings that have already been renovated or significantly altered

A Building Survey examines all accessible elements of the property and the surveyor will actively search for any structural problems or defects – they are legally obliged to inform of all problematic defects within the final report.

You can request that certain areas are included to cover particular concerns that you may have about the property. In contrast to the RICS HomeBuyer Report, there is a lack of a standardised format for the Building Survey report, so the surveyor is able modify a Building Survey to your needs.