Home Buyers Survey in Olney

Should I book a RICS Level 2 Survey, Full Structural Survey or RICS Level 3 Survey on a property in Olney and which is the cheapest?

The Full Structural Survey has been updated to a RICS Level 3 Survey, however it is basically the same the same.

If the Olney property is an apartment, or was built before 1900, or has been structurally altered, or is of non standard construction, RICS advise a cheaper RICS Level 2 Survey.

If you are planning to do any alterations, RICS recommend you choose a RICS Level 3 Survey. The RICS Level 3 Survey is not as cheap however it does give a thorough analysis of the Olney property's general condition in addition to information on defects as well as maintenance options .

If in doubt why not get a Olney Home Survey Quote on our site or call us 0800 022 4428 to speak to our survey team.

Does a RICS Level 3 Survey in Olney include a valuation and reinstatement cost estimate (including costs for professional fees) and how is it calculated?

The RICS Level 2 Survey contains a valuation and a reinstatement cost as an integral part of the report. To ascertain an accurate value estimate your surveyor will relate to experience of property in Olney and other considerations about the property for instance: state of repair.

The surveyor will also consider materials used and draw upon key assumptions like it is connected to mains services.

A RICS Level 3 Survey won't include a valuation as standard. A valuation can, however, be added for a small additional fee. Alternatively a Property Valuation Report (PVR) can be carried out. The valuation is also on the basis that there is an absence of any expensive legal issues e.g. no laws are broken by use of property. Such concerns will be clarified by your conveyancing solicitor.

Further area conjectures, for example water and drainage connectivity, are made in addition to local environmental problems like flightpaths, which will also be factored in.

The vendor has mentioned there is a risk of asbestos pipe insulation situated in the property. What is asbestos and does the Olney home survey report on it?

Asbestos is a dangerous fibrous structured mineral. The 3 main types are Blue, Brown and White are often building materials e.g. central heating flues. Its use is widespread, for example - as it has very good fire retarding qualities and it may be found in garage roofs. Technically all forms (including white) are deadly and may lead to lung cancer or scarring of the lung following prolonged exposure.

If discovered, one must be careful not to remove the asbestos and expert advice must be taken ASAP. Never endeavour to disturb it yourself. Olney Surveyors will not test for asbestos as part of the survey. Surveyors will mention potential asbestos and will recommend relevant tests.

Should we upgrade to full structural survey prior to acquiring a modified regency live work apartment near Olney?

Structural surveys are now known as RICS Level 3 Survey. If you are buying an unusual property e.g. a period apartment in Olney - this is the most suitable selection of survey to complete. A RICS Level 2 Survey is enough if investigating a 60 year old or less unmodified property assembled from typical construction materials i.e. brick and tile. Shortly after a thorough inspection of the inside and outside of the main building and permanent outbuildings, a formal report will be posted and emailed to the buyer running through comprehensive and crucial information in relation to the materials used for the construction of the house. There will be certain limitations with any survey because a surveyor is not able to force or open up the fabric of the Olney apartment e.g. moving heavy furniture. This page for more about survey specifics.