Understanding Building Survey Reports: A Detailed Breakdown

Receiving your building survey report from Hampstead Surveyors is a crucial moment in your property purchase journey. Our expert guide helps you read, interpret, and act on survey findings, ensuring you make informed decisions about your property investment.

Building Survey Report Structure

Executive Summary

The first page provides an overview of key findings, urgent issues, and overall property condition. This section answers the critical question: "Should I buy this property?"

Detailed Findings

The main report examines every inspected element systematically:

• External walls and foundations
• Roof covering and structure
• Internal walls, floors, and ceilings
• Services (electricity, gas, water, drainage)
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Traffic Light Rating System

• Condition Rating 1 (Green): No repair currently needed
• Condition Rating 2 (Amber): Repairs or replacement requiring future attention
• Condition Rating 3 (Red): Urgent defects or serious issues
• NI: Not inspected (inaccessible areas)

Recommendations and Costs

For significant defects, we provide:

• Recommended actions
• Urgency timeframes
• Estimated repair costs
• Suggestions for specialist investigation

How to Read Your Survey Report

Start with the Summary

Read the executive summary first to understand overall condition and major concerns. This provides context before diving into detailed findings.

Focus on Rating 3s

Red-flagged issues require immediate attention. These are deal-breakers or significant negotiation points affecting property value and safety.

Note Rating 2s

Amber-rated items need future attention. Budget for these repairs within 1-5 years. They're not urgent but shouldn't be ignored.

Don't Panic at Rating 1s

Green ratings confirm elements in satisfactory condition. All properties have maintenance requirements; Rating 1s are normal upkeep.

Common Survey Findings Explained

"Further Investigation Required"

When we recommend specialist investigation (structural engineer, drainage survey, electrical test), it doesn't automatically mean catastrophic problems. It means our initial inspection identified concerns requiring specialist equipment or expertise to assess fully.

"Hidden Defects Possible"

Areas we couldn't access (locked rooms, heavy furniture, sealed spaces) may conceal defects. This disclaimer protects both parties but is standard language.

"Outside Scope of Survey"

We don't test services, assess planning permissions, or provide legal advice. These items require specialists or solicitors.

Acting on Survey Findings

Option 1: Renegotiate Price

Use repair cost estimates to negotiate price reduction. Sellers often prefer price adjustment to completing repairs themselves.

Option 2: Request Repairs

Ask sellers to fix urgent issues before completion. Get written confirmation and proof of work completion.

Option 3: Budget and Proceed

Accept findings, budget accordingly, and proceed with purchase. Many buyers choose this route for desirable properties with manageable issues.

Option 4: Walk Away

If problems are too severe or costly, withdrawing is legitimate. Better to lose survey fees than buy problem property.

Questions to Ask Your Surveyor

We welcome questions after report delivery. Common queries:

• "How urgent is this issue really?"
• "What happens if I delay this repair?"
• "Can you recommend specialist contractors?"
• "Is this normal for properties of this age?"
• "How did you reach this cost estimate?"