CHOOSE THE RIGHT BUILDING SURVEY

 

· Single Issue Report

A report on a particular area of concern.

The spoof particulars of Fawlty Mansions give particular examples. Such reports are often required by those who already own the building. What is wrong? - how do we put in right? - specification - quotations - liability for cost - supervision.

 

· Condition Survey

A snapshot of the condition of a building, or part of a building. Usually a typed schedule, often illustrated with photographs and / or sketches. Condition surveys are sometimes required to be annexed to a lease where there is agreement with the landlord to hand back a property in no worse condition, particularly where a property is old and not in good condition, but still fit for its purpose, such as with many business premises. Condition surveys are nearly always appended to Party Wall Awards prior to building work commencing so as to record the condition of adjacent property and protect a building owner against unwarranted claims for damage caused by works in progress. Sometimes the condition survey will be photographic

· Building Survey

A building survey (until recently known as a "structural survey", for which see below) is a report on the general condition of a property and is the only type of survey appropriate for purchasers of houses and flats in our area. It follows a detailed examination of the fabric of the building by an experienced and professionally qualified surveyor who knows what to look for and where to look.

It comprises:

* An appraisal of the form and materials of construction.

* A technical analysis of significant defects revealed and advice on appropriate further actions.

* Identification of less significant defects, general disrepair and shortcomings in the physical condition, maintenance and design of the building.

only, in which case we use high quality photographic equipment and high resolution film with output to either colour laser printer or CD ROM.

 

· Dilapidations Survey

A survey for landlord or tenant to record defects and wants of repair, sometimes costed. Leases spell out who is responsible for repair and maintenance. A dilapidation survey may be required during the lease or at the end to require landlord or tenant to keep their part of the bargain.

 

· Home Buyer Survey and Valuation Report

This is an economy service designed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors for the cost conscious home buyer. It will provide an overall opinion of the general condition of the property but does not offer additional useful features such as providing Guideline Budgets for any defects that may be identified. It doesn't detail every aspect of the property, and only focuses on urgent matters needing attention. It’s not usually suitable for properties in need of renovation, or if you’re planning major alterations.

 

What is a survey?

 

"It is an inspection by someone with a knowledgeable eye experienced in practice who knows where to look."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mr Justice Henry in the Judgement of Lloyd v Butler 1990

"The survey of a building is part art and part science. The art is knowing where to look and the science is the interpretation of what one sees."

 

Professor Malcolm Hollis

KNOW YOUR Building Survey

A807, Block A, Mentari Business Park

Jalan PJS 8/5, Bandar Sunway

46150 Petaling Jaya, Selangor

Malaysia

Phone: 603-56321466

Fax: 603-56321477

E-mail: info@cove.com.my

COVE Consultancy