Building Surveys: A Guide for Homebuyers

a surveyor conducting a building survey in a kitchen
(Image credit: getty images)

Once you've had an offer accepted, looking at building surveys for your potential new home should be your next task to complete. Offering peace of mind and helping to avoid the risk of purchasing a property that has serious problems in need of attention, commissioning a building survey is something to be seriously considered. 

However, not all building surveys are created equal, and some will offer a more in-depth examination of the property than others, potentially uncovering issues behind the façade, from structural stability to drainage issues. 

Ian Rock

Chartered surveyor Ian Rock MRICS is a director is Rightsurvey.co.uk and the author of eight popular Haynes House Manuals, including the Home Extension Manual, the Self Build Manual and Period Property Manual.

Ian is also the founder of Zennor Consultants. In addition to providing house surveys, Zennor Consultants provide professional guidance on property refurbishment and maintenance as well as advising on the design and construction of home extensions and loft conversions, including planning and Building Regulations compliance.

Ian has recently added a 100m2 extension to his home; he designed and project managed the build and completed much of the interior fit-out on a DIY basis.