David Rawlins - Chartered Surveryors Yorkshire UK - Building Survey

Undertaken by David Rawlins DipBldgCons FRICS IHBC, who, as a Historic Building Consultant, specialises in the inspection of old buildings, including Listed Buildings.

When buying a house it is essential to receive proper advice and this is particularly the case with old buildings. I advise buyers of period property on the basis of both experience and specialist qualification. In terms of experience, I have been working in North and East Yorkshire for the last 30 years, surveying all types of property.

The diagnosis of defects and the repair of old buildings is a different skill from that of modern buildings. It is important to adopt an approach which works with the structure of the buildings and recognises the advantages of traditional forms of building. For example, the installation of a damp proof course is very often not necessary, and soft mortar pointing which gives the building its character may very well not need renewing. Its softness and flexibility is often its strength.

The purpose of a building survey is to identify faults and defects and to advise on the implications of these. I aim to recommend solutions which respect the character and construction of the building. In many cases this may mean taking little or no action compared with the approach of the surveyor accustomed to surveying modern buildings. On the other hand some defects can be more complex than those found in modern buildings, and it is important to identify these, and to consider appropriate remedial action.

• A Building Survey is the most comprehensive type of survey. It is suitable for all properties but specially recommended for:
• Older properties
• Any building constructed in an unusual way regardless of age
• Properties you are planning to renovate or alter in any way
• Properties which have already had extensive alterations
• All Listed Buildings.
• Barn Conversions etc

A building survey involves a detailed examination of all accessible parts of a property and can be tailor-made to suit your individual needs and concerns. It includes the following:

• An holistic inspection of the property with particular reference to major defects.
• Inspection of all areas where reasonable safe access can be obtained.
• The implications of any defects and the possible cost of repairs by reference to BCIS Tables (if requested, although accuracy of such figures will need to be confirmed by reference to specialist contractors)
• Results of testing walls for dampness and timbers for damage, including woodworm and rot.
• Identification of the CAUSE of the problems identified before advising how to attend the SYMPTOMS.
• Technical information on the construction of the property and details about materials used in construction.
• Information on the location.
• Advice on matters affecting Energy Efficiency.
• Recommendations for any further specialist inspections.
• Identification of those works that may have required Listed Building consent, and past works that may adversely impact on the integrity of the building.
• This is a thorough inspection and we therefore allow for a full day at the property - or as long as it takes for larger houses.
• No test of the services is undertaken, but arrangements can be made for specialist inspection of the Electrics', Heating System or Drains, by qualified specialists.

A building survey does not include a valuation, although we would be pleased to carry out a valuation if required, for an additional fee.   Reinstatement Valuations for Insurance purposes can also be undertaken.