Surveyors in Berkshire

I intend to buy a flat in Berkshire, what sort of survey should I instruct?

Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Blaenau Gwent, the decision on which building survey is best will depend on a number of factors. For example, a full structural survey known as a Building Survey (RICS Level 3) will provide a more in-depth examination and explanation of the fabric of a building. This might be more appropriate when buying a flat or apartment because the surveyor can be asked to provide an opinion on shared areas of a property, such as the roof area, hallways and stairwells.

What kind of roof issues would a Berkshire HomeBuyer Report (RICS Level 2) reveal?

The HomeBuyer Report (RICS Level 2) uses colour-coded condition ratings that give those purchasing a property clear understanding of any issues. Access to loft or attic space can reveal issues with trusses and supports, torn or punctured damp proofing or missing tiles. Where it is not possible to access the roof for a more thorough inspection, the final report will make this clear.

A builder friend said there may be asbestos ceilings in the house I hope to buy. Will a survey show if asbestos is there?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre that was used in building materials such as flooring and fireplace lining because of its resistance to heat. The product was also used as insulation in ceiling tiles. Asbestos is a hazardous substance, and prolonged exposure to its fibres can lead to lung cancer or asbestosis. Where asbestos is found, it must be removed by professionals who are licensed by the Health & Safety Executive. A Berkshire chartered surveyor will not be able to confirm whether asbestos is present but will note any possibility of the fibre's use, and advise where further investigation is required.

It looks like the Berkshire mid-century home I plan to purchase has an unsafe electrical system. Will a surveyor report on the safety of the wiring?

Whether carrying out a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) or a Building Survey (RICS Level 3), a Berkshire RICS chartered surveyor will look at the condition of the electrics. This includes an overview of the fuse board, its age and condition; any visible wiring; electrical fittings such as showers and light fittings. If the electrics are in an unsatisfactory or dangerous state of repair, the surveyor will highlight this in the report. They will also examine any documentation from electrical wiring tests carried out by an electrician where this is available.

I'm buying a period property inside a Berkshire conservation area. What do I need to know?

There are over ten thousand conservation areas in the UK which are overseen by local authorities. Surveyors in Berkshire are required by RICS to possess knowledge of local area factors and any relation they have on the building. Property prices tend to be higher in conservation areas. However, many conservation areas have been neglected and are in a poor state, mostly caused by unauthorised alterations to the fronts, roofs and chimneys of buildings. Berkshire property surveyors are expected to report whether the property looks to be within a conservation area.

A Berkshire Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) will suggest additional due diligence and enquiries are raised by your legal representation. Unapproved extensions that do not have Local Authority approval may also be noted in the survey - these should be concern for your lawyer.

I am looking for London brick repair advice. Can the surveyor assist?

Brick-constructed houses in Berkshire benefit from many advantages in comparison to other forms of building. However, they can also be affected by a diverse range of issues, including frost damaged pointing and defective mortar. Your Berkshire RICS surveyor should report on these, offering solutions or an indication of likely results should these issues remain unsolved. One defect surveyors of brick property frequently address is brick rot, resulting from decades of exposure to condensation or damp at ground level. If discovered, this may require outright demolition of the effected wall. Maintenance work may be more time-consuming and costly than you assume. Consider the advice of both the surveyor and a builder or other specialist if potential structural defects arise during the survey.