Understanding a Full Structural Survey
Originally, the term “Structural Survey” was used to describe a Full Building Survey. They both basically refer to the same thing. Both terms refer to a Level 3 Building Survey that provides a comprehensive inspection of the property, usually before it’s purchased, and presents its findings—including photographs and drawings of defects—along with remedies and guidance on routine maintenance. These surveys are perfect for thoroughly understanding the condition of the building and whether the actual asking price is justified.
The structural survey aims to provide an inspection of a building to note any apparent and possibly concealed problems that might require attention. The report focuses on the property’s structural condition and what might be considered as critical or pressing. The surveyors investigates the building’s soundness and remarks on the causes of the various issues
What is the difference between a Full Building Survey and Structural Engineer’s Survey
A “Full Structural Survey” generally means that you would need a Full Building Survey, but when there is a specific aspect of the property that you need to focus on such an issue with cracking or subsidence, then you might be interested in a specific kind of report called a Structural Engineer’s Report.
Building surveys are typically carried out by RICS chartered surveyors, but can also be done by CIOB or RPSA surveyors just as well. While structural engineers are sometimes involved with building surveys, their main focus is on structural assessments. Structural assessments are usually carried out by structural engineers and are more specifically related to identifying issues and problems with the building’s structure and then making recommendations.
Another difference is that a building survey examines the whole property and its surroundings, whereas a structural engineer survey investigates only the suspected structural problems.
Building Surveys are normally conducted to inform potential home buyers about the condition of the property and the need for any repairs or maintenance. On the other hand, when a survey is conducted by a structural engineer, it focuses on one specific problem or area of weakness in the structure.
Structural Survey and Specific Defect Survey in Manchester
If you have a Full Building Survey done (Structural Survey), and the building surveyor finds that there’s a particular concern with the property’s structure, you might be asked to have a Structural Engineer Survey done. These are often called Specific Defect Surveys.
In other words, if you want to purchase a property, you first order a Structural Survey (which is also known as a Full Building Survey). After that, if any possibly major problems are detected, you definitely get a Structural Engineer involved to look into things further.
Get in Touch
The team comprises of RICS surveyors and structural engineers from IStructE. These professionals can perform both building surveying and building engineering tasks related to the structure of the property you are considering for purchase. Their work will provide you with critical insights into the condition of the property to inform your decision on its price and make it a sound one.
Surveys of Commercial Property
If you’re thinking of acquiring, leasing, subletting, disposing of, or altering commercial premises in Manchester, you would be well advised to locate a surveyor skilled in the nuances of commercial building surveying – should you spot a defect in a commercial building you can use that information to negotiate an asking price for the property that’s considerably lower than what the seller originally wanted, or you can talk your way out of a bad deal altogether.
Our Manchester-based team of RICS-compliant commercial building surveyors is equipped to handle matters throughout Manchester.
Contact
Our team prioritizes client care above all else. We look forward to being in touch with you so you can instruct a surveyor in Manchester, London, Bristol, Birmingham or Cardiff. You can reach out to us easily. Just fill out our form, and we’ll get back to you with a free quote for your survey. All our surveyors are qualified as members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and we are one of the UK’s leading providers of building survey and valuation services:
- Accredited Professionals: Certified by organizations like RICS, CIOB, and RPSA.
- Customized Survey Reports: inspections to meet your specific requirements.
- Local Expertise: Deep understanding and specialized knowledge.
- Expert Guidance: Professional recommendations and support.
The property survey you commission will be carried out by an accredited professional. Your chartered surveyor will be a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), or will belong to some other industry-standard professional body. Rest assured; you will receive highest quality of professional service for your survey.
