The
extent of inspection and nature of report we carry out when
we undertake an instruction from a Client to undertake a
Residential Building Survey is set out below. Where the
Surveyor considers that there might be a problem he will
advise as to the importance of obtaining a report from an
appropriate specialist.
Roofs
The Surveyor will inspect the roof spaces if there are
available hatches. The Surveyor will have a ladder of
sufficient height to gain access to a roof hatch or to
a single storey roof, not more than 3.0m (10’0”)
above the floor or adjacent ground. Roofs above this level
will be inspected by binoculars or similar The Surveyor
will follow the guidance given in “Surveying Safely”
issued by the RICS in April 1991, which incorporates the
guidance given in Guidance Notes GS31 on the safe use
of ladders and step-ladders issued by the HSE.
Floors
The Surveyor will lift accessible sample loose floorboards
and trap doors, if any, which are not covered by heavy
furniture, ply or hardboard, fitted carpets or other fixed
floor coverings. The Surveyor will not attempt to raise
fixed floorboards without permission.
Accessibility
and Voids
The Surveyor will inspect as much of the surface area
of the structure as is practicable but will not inspect
those areas which are covered, unexposed or not reasonably
accessible. The Surveyor will identify any areas which
could not be inspected but would normally be, where it
is considered that access should be obtained or formed
and will advise on possible or probable defects based
on evidence from what it was possible to see.
Services
The Surveyor will carry out a visual inspection of the
service installation where accessible. Manhole covers
will be lifted where accessible and practicable. No tests
will be applied unless previously agreed. The Surveyor
will report if, as a result of his inspection, it is considered
that tests are advisable and whether an inspection and
report by a specialist should be obtained. For obvious
reasons, the Surveyor cannot report on any underground
cables.
Boundaries,
Grounds and Outbuildings
The inspection will include boundaries, grounds and outbuildings.
Specialist leisure facilities, including swimming pools
and tennis courts will not be inspected.
Deleterious/Hazardous
Materials & Contamination
The Surveyor will assume that no deleterious or hazardous
materials or techniques have been used in the construction
of the property. The Surveyor will not comment upon the
existence of contamination as appropriate specialists
can only establish this.
The Surveyor will,
however, advise in the report if, in his view, there is
likelihood that high alumina cement (HAC) concrete has
been used in the construction. Lead water supply pipes
and asbestos will be noted, and advice given, if these
materials can be seen. The Surveyor will advise in the
Report if the property is in an area where, based on information
established by the National Radiological Protection Board,
there is a risk of radon. The Surveyor will advise if
there are transformer stations or overhead power lines
which might give rise to an electro-magnetic field, either
over the subject property or visible immediately adjacent
to the property, but the Surveyor cannot assess any possible
effect on health.
Statutory
Consents & Further Investigation
The Surveyor will assume that the property is not subject
to any unusual or especially onerous restrictions or covenants
which apply to the structure or affect the reasonable
enjoyment of the property. You are advised to ensure that
your legal advisor makes all necessary enquiries.
