Ashanti Dutch Property Lettings Ltd

Home Survey Standards

Survey Level One

This service is designed for homeowners, potential buyers, and sellers looking for a professional objective report on the condition of the property, it is less detailed than survey level two and survey level three.

This level of investigation includes a visual assessment that is less extensive than for the other surveys. No assessments of the building fabric or services are completed, and the report objectively describes the condition of the building, its services and the grounds. It highlights relevant legal issues and any obvious risks to the building, people or grounds.

This report is succinct and provides an examination of the relative importance of the defects and problems. Where conclusion cannot be made, we would recommend further investigation.

This survey does not include advice on repairs or ongoing maintenance schedules, this survey is better suited to conventionally built properties, or contemporary dwellings in satisfactory condition, this is not suitable for older more elaborate properties, or those in a neglected condition.

Survey Level Two

This is for clients who are looking for a professional mid-range survey. It is, consequently, less detailed than say the level three survey, the main focus is on assessing the general condition of the main components. This intermediate level will include a more substantial visual inspection of its services and grounds, but still without tests. Concealed areas are inspected if it is safe to do so, these include roof spaces and cellars. The report objectively describes the state of the various elements as well as providing an assessment of the relevant flaws. This level, although concise, does not include advice about how to do the repairs and any ongoing maintenance issues. That said whenever we are unable to reach a conclusion with reasonable confidence, then we would advise on any specialist investigations separately.

This report is suited to a broader range of traditionally built properties, but is unlikely to suit complex structures, for example those that have already been extensively extended and altered, distinctive or older historic properties, however, it may be appropriate for some older buildings. For example, a survey on homes with traditional timber frames or those built substantially before 1849 are most likely to be inconclusive and be of very little use to residential properties in a dilapidated condition. In such instances, there will be numerous referrals for further investigations, thus causing frustration, that said if our clients are planning to carry out extensive renovations, we can give advice on suitable alternative services or reports.

Survey Level Three

The report objectively describes the kind of construction and its components, as well as its condition and offers an assessment of the general importance of the defects or problems. Acknowledgement is given for possible risks and concealed defects are discussed in detail as are the most probable causes based on the inspection overview. The scope of any appropriate remedial works are explained as well as the likely effects of non-repair, we will make an overall recommendation in respect of the priority as well as timescales for essential works and give an indication of likely costs (costings would not normally form part of the level three service, however, estimates can be produced on request) Where costings are included, this will be reflected in the price and the terms and conditions.