It is important to obtain balanced and straightforward advice on the condition of a property before committing to a purchase so that you can buy with confidence having taken professional advice on any underlying issues and having been made aware of any defects or maintenance matters which may require addressing over the longer term.

Armed with this information you will avoid having to meet future costs for which you are unprepared. To assist purchasers in taking these decisions, there are three levels of survey to help you through the buying process. The most appropriate survey depends upon the level and depth of advice required and, more importantly, the type of property being purchased.

Survey Level 1

This survey includes a visual inspection of the property at an economic price, describing its general condition and highlighting any significant legal issues or risks which may arise. This level of survey does not include advice on repairs or maintenance and is only suitable for standard modern properties in apparently good condition. Mike Massey Associates do not undertake Level 1 inspections.

Survey Level 2 (Homebuyer Report)

This is the intermediate level of survey and involves a more detailed inspection of the property to include concealed spaces used by the occupants (roof spaces, cellars etc). This survey provides more detailed but concise advice on defects and maintenance and is suitable for a broader range of properties. Whilst level 2 surveys are not specifically designed for older/listed buildings, they can, with the required levels of expertise, be carried out on small/medium size listed buildings where appropriate.

Survey Level 3 (Building Survey)

This is the top level of survey available and is suited to older, larger and complex properties. This type of survey provides in-depth advice on defects, their likely causes, and advises on maintenance and repair costs. As a level 3 survey takes longer to conduct and requires a higher level of expertise, it is more costly, but these increased costs are often offset by the greater depth of advice given, and the cost savings this can bring over the longer term. A level 3 survey will include photographs of relevant areas of concern and cost estimates for repairs. A level 3 survey will also differentiate between repairs which are required urgently and those which are likely to be necessary over the longer term.

We would be happy to discuss your survey requirements, so please do not hesitate to contact us for any further advice you may require. If you would like to see sample reports, please let us know.