Surveys
Surveys We Offer
WHICH SURVEY IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Here at Alderman Stone as Chartered Building Surveyors we are specialists in Building Surveys and have seen everything. We provide full Building Surveys in the traditional way, involving detailed inspection and analysis of the building and its site. Our founding owner is a Chartered Building Surveyor with over 25 years of local experience and regularly acts as 'Expert Witness' for building defects in Court is a Fellow of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (FRICS) - (RICS Fellowship is defined as, 'An honoured class of membership awarded on the basis of individual achievement within the profession'.)
Alderman Stone Chartered Building Surveyors are an RICS regulated firm - a mark of distinction and excellence for Chartered Surveyors and industry’s most respected authority on surveying.
"BUY YOUR PROPERTY WITH CONFIDENCE"
Purchasing a property is the biggest investment that many people will make, and having a Building Survey conducted by Alderman Stone will give you piece of mind, prior to making your purchase, on the physical condition of the building and the nature of any potential works required, along with any indication of potential legal matters such as boundary issues, that may be found during the inspection and analysis.
We have a wealth of experience in conducting Building Surveys of residential properties of any type and size, including RICS Condition Surveys (level 1), Homebuyer Surveys (level 2) and full Building Surveys (level 3), along with commercial properties, and we have a legacy of many happy customers following our Survey services provided.
Please telephone or email us to discuss your requirements for a Building Survey, and we will be happy to provide advice and a free no obligation quote, and a Building Survey at your convenience.
It’s important to remember that your mortgage lender’s valuation report is not a survey. It merely tells your lender whether or not the property is reasonable priced security for your loan. A RICS survey will tell you the actual condition of the property. That’s vital information that can be invaluable during price negotiations, and will also help you avoid expensive surprises after you’ve moved in.
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
We believe if a survey is worth doing it should be done properly and recommend this survey in most situations, essential for larger, older or run down properties, or a building that is unusual or altered, or if you’re planning major works. Formerly known as a ‘Structural Survey’ this report is the most comprehensive report and provides detailed information about the structure and fabric of the property. This service includes:
- A detailed visual inspection of the building, its services and the grounds and is more extensive than a
survey level 2
- Concealed areas normally opened or used by the occupiers are inspected if it is safe to do so (typical
examples include roof spaces, basements and cellars)
- Although the services are not tested, they are observed in normal operation – in other words, they are
switched on or off and/or operated where the occupier has given permission and it is safe to do so.you
with an in-depth analysis of the property’s condition, including advice on defects, repairs and
maintenance options
- Objectively describes the form of construction and materials used for different parts of the property. It
describes the condition and provides an assessment of the relative importance of the defects/
problems
- Describe the identifiable risk of potential or hidden defects in areas not inspected
- Propose the most probable cause(s) of the defects based on the inspection
- Outline the likely scope of any appropriate remedial work and explain the likely consequences of non-repair; and make general recommendations in respect of the priority and likely timescale for necessary work
- Provides specific comments on energy efficiency
- If agreed provide estimated costs for identified repairs.
Where agreed as a separate service, provides a building reinstatement assessment to avoid
under or over insurance value
Contact us on 02476 347171 or email us for a FREE no obligation consultation and quotation
RICS Level 2 Building Survey
For buying or selling a modern conventional house, flat or bungalow, built from common building materials and in reasonable condition.
The focus is on assessing the general condition of the main elements of a property, its services and grounds, without tests.
Concealed areas normally opened or used by the occupiers are inspected if it is safe to do so (typical examples include roof spaces, basements and cellars). The report objectively describes the condition of the different elements and provides an assessment of the relative importance of the defects/problems.
It is less comprehensive than a Level 3 Building Survey.
Where agreed as a separate service, provides a building reinstatement assessment to avoid under or over insurance value.
Contact us on 02476 347171 or email us for a FREE no obligation consultation and quotation
RICS Condition Survey
Concise report which specifies description of elements, condition of elements and priority (1-5) of remedial works required in tabular format over a 5 year period and 5-10 year period with budget costings.
Concealed areas normally opened or used by the occupiers are inspected if it is safe to do so (typical examples include roof spaces, basements and cellars).
Covers property, services, grounds and outbuildings.
Where agreed as a separate service, provides a building reinstatement assessment to avoid under or over insurance value.
Contact us on 02476 347171 or email us for a FREE no obligation consultation and quotation
Snagging Lists
Issues with your new home?
We can help with a detailed home inspection carried out by an experienced RICS Chartered Building Surveyor to carry weight and respect with any potential claim against the developer.
Nothing is overlooked, you will receive a detailed "snag list" with photographic evidence covering cosmetic and technical issues including compliance with building regulations etc.
Covers all areas of the property and grounds:
- Roofs, chimneys and rainwater goods
- Soffits and fascias
- Exterior walls
- Windows and doors
- Drains and flues
- Loft spaces
- Outbuildings including Garage spaces
- Bathroom (finishes, plumbing and electrical)
- Kitchen (finishes and units)
- Flooring and skirting
- Stair components
- Heating Radiators
- Grounds
- Outbuildings
- External areas
Contact us on 02476 347171 or email us for a FREE no obligation consultation and quotation
Heritage Surveys
Until recently, an old or Period Property was defined as anything built before 1919. Now we don't really know what it was in 1919 that made something special, or Period - but after that, houses were supposed to be new, and presumably not particularly interesting. Nowadays, there is a far better description of what an old house is: It's defined as a 'Solid walled structure, built using breathable materials'.
It doesn't matter whether it is pre, or post 1919 - the important thing to be aware of is the construction, and the way in which the materials interact with water in particular - causing, or avoiding dampness issues.
We are experienced in dealing with historic properties and the materials they are built of which is crucial for any historic building survey.
Maintenance of a Period Property is always an important factor and more expensive than a contemporary building; however, savings are available if repairs are done properly, and key elements like roof, drains, and windows are maintained.
UK Periods for houses:
Tudor period - 1485-1560
Elizabethan and Jacobean period - 1560-1660
Restoration period - 1660-1714
Georgian period - 1715-1790
Regency period - 1790-1830
Victorian period - 1830-1900
Edwardian period - 1900-1918
Art Nouveau period - 1890-1910
Art Deco period - 1908-1935
Contact us on 02476 347171 or email us for a FREE no obligation consultation and quotation
Drone Roof Survey
Drones are relatively new technology, and only a handful of experienced and licensed providers are able to utilise this technology to carry out surveys.
Ultra HD 4K quality up close video survey footage of buildings and roofs provided that would otherwise be difficult to inspect, for example high, complex or unsafe roofs.
Much quicker, safer and cheaper than using scaffold or cherry pickers to conduct a closer inspection or survey of high or unsafe roofs and/or large sites.
Uses to include stand alone survey, expert witness defect analysis, in addition to a commercial or residential building survey for purchase, dilapidations claim or maybe for a birds eye view illustration for planning and development use.
In accordance with our PCFO Licence and CAA regulations, we can legally fly drones up to a height of 400ft (120m).
Contact us on 02476 347171 or email us for a FREE no obligation consultation and quotation
Commercial Surveys
Vendor's Building Inspection
The doctrine of 'Caveat Emptor' (Buyer Beware) has reigned supreme for centuries. It has disadvantages. Abortive cost and time delay arise as every prospective purchaser has to commission their own survey of a property. Whereas survey reports prepared on behalf of the Vendor, on which the Purchaser may legally rely, can reduce transaction times and scope for negotiation. The preparation of Vendor's Building Inspections, in readiness for sale, is a role with which Alderman Stone is very familiar.
Alderman Stone has specialised in this service area for more than 25 years. Alderman Stone is independent of investment advisers and agents, and, therefore, Purchasers' interests are not open to compromise by 'undue influence'. Our location of offices enable us to deal with single properties or large portfolios, anywhere in the UK.
Our clients are mainly independent asset managers, financial institutions and property companies. We are able to tailor extensively the precise scope of our reports, coordinating the involvement of other professional disciplines, if necessary.
We pride ourselves on our unbiased, pragmatic style of reporting, and a responsive and proactive approach.
If you would like further no obligation advice or assistance with any aspect, please contact us.
This information is not intended to be a comprehensive review of all legal or other aspects referred to. Readers should take further appropriate advice before applying the information contained in this media to specific issues or problems.
Service Includes
- Clarifying the precise extent of the service required
- Reviewing all relevant technical and legal documentation
- Inspecting the property internally and externally
- Co-ordinating the involvement of specialist sub-consultants in regard to services
installations, deleterious materials testing and land contamination - Liaising with other members of the disposal team such as solicitors, agents, accountants and investment advisers
- Preparing a report to the client's preferred format or our own format
- Dealing with queries raised by prospective purchasers, including more forensic re-inspection of the property, if so instructed
- Drafting, agreeing and executing Warranties and Duty of Care documents in favour of the eventual purchasers
Purchaser's Building Survey
The demands of modern investment markets call for property that is considered a liquid asset class. Buyers are therefore obliged to satisfy themselves as to the condition of a property before committing to the transaction. Alderman Stone has been providing acquisition advice in the residential and commercial property sector for more than 25 years, for a multitude of building types. We have developed a reputation in the market place for pragmatic, balanced advice and offer services for single properties or large portfolios.
Our clients range from commercial companies acquiring space for their own occupation, financial institutions, property companies acquiring property for investment purposes, independent asset managers and developers. We are able to tailor extensively the precise scope of our reports, to suit the circumstances of our involvement and co-ordinate the involvement of many other professional disciplines as necessary.
Service includes:
- Clarifying the extent of the service required
- Reviewing all relevant technical and legal documentation
- Inspecting the property
- Co-ordinating the involvement of specialist sub-consultant concerning services installations, deleterious materials testing and land contamination
- Liaising with other members of the acquisition team such as solicitors, agents, accountants and investment advisers
- Preparing a report to the client's preferred format or our own format
- Dealing with queries raised by the acquisition team, including more forensic re-inspection of the property, if required
- Attending review meetings
Environmental Due Diligence
Environmental due diligence has become an essential tool in assessing the environmental risks and liabilities associated with property development and the due diligence transaction process. This dedicated service, required as part of the vendor, acquisition, divestiture and redevelopment process, provides commercially aware reports, in line with current environmental legislation, tailored specifically to the needs of our clients.
Environmental due diligence includes:
- Phase I - Real Estate and Industrial Environmental Audit
- Phase II - Environmental Audit & Soil and Groundwater Investigations
- Phase III - Remediation Design and Management Services
- Hazardous Building Materials
- Geothermal Technology
Green Due Diligence
Over recent years, sustainability issues have become increasingly important. The pending changes in legislation regarding energy saving/CO2 reduction will be a driving market factor in the property market as it is expected that the requirement for energy passes will have increasing influence on property decision-making. With energy costs described as being the 'second rent', sustainable buildings will have a competitive edge and will increase in value whereas standard buildings will only be bought and let at reduced prices.
To meet the changing needs of clients and ever-changing legislation, Alderman Stone has established a new field of 'green due diligence' expertise to emphasize the importance of sustainability issues within the property industry. As green legislation is a moving target, an experienced view on current and future issues is essential for the successful completion of a project.
Green due diligence includes the following:
- Energy passes
- Green building consultancy
- Compliance - BREEAM & LEED
Contact us on 02476 347171 or email us for a FREE no obligation consultation and quotation
Common Building Defects
Cracking to Brickwork
Over time, hairline cracks in mortar joints are bound to appear, due to thermal expansion and contraction, and weathering. Cracking to brickwork can also be an indication of subsidence if it is severe, and in such cases the cracks will often shear the bricks themselves.
Dampness in Walls
Damp can be caused by several issues, which can combine. The most common causes are rising damp which is found at lower level of the walls, and condensation which can occur on any part of the walls.
Roofs
Older properties were clad with clay tiles or slates originally. Occasionally, when clay tiles are replaced with heavier concrete tiles, this can cause significant problems. For example, sagging can occur where the original timbers and roof structure is not designed to hold the extra weight. Structural roof issues can also be caused by wet rot, dry rot and woodworm to the structural timbers. Non-structural roof issues include roof include missing or broken tiles, and eroded mortar joints at the ridge tiles eroding
Gutters & Downpipes
The most common failures points of gutters and downpipes are at the corners of guttering, joins and rainwater outlets. A blocked gutter can cause damp issues / failure of masonry and can lead to structural issues if left long enough. Old gutters and downpipes may also be corroded.
;Structural Alterations
A lot of residential defects are caused by alterations to the original structure, poor materials or workmanship for example, if a load bearing wall is removed, a proper steel structure design must be used to ensure the load can be taken safely and without fault.
Construction faults
Construction faults can occur during the construction process, even in modern, newly constructed properties. They can be caused by a number of factors including materials and workmanship. Construction deficiencies can lead to a number of problems, including structural damage and water ingress.