Surveying Services
As Independent Chartered Surveyors we are not linked or owned by an Estate Agent or lender and as a result we work for you with your interests in mind. We are regulated by the RICS with years of training and experience which enables us give expert advice.
New Forest Surveying undertake a number of different types of survey, not just building surveys and homebuyer reports. We pride ourselves on an a high level of service with competitive fee levels. Described below are the various surveys we offer.
RICS Level 3 (Building Survey)
Often referred to as a pre-acquisition or due diligence survey this is a structural survey of the property including, a description of visible defects and potential problems caused by hidden flaws. We will use specialist equipment where appropriate to detect problems beyond the surface.
Where issues are identified we will offer recommendations for remedial works and an estimate of cost or suggest further exploratory works if deemed necessary.
RICS Level 2 (Homebuyer Report)
A client friendly report written in jargon free English and features energy performance ratings and colour-coded condition ratings. The report follows an industry standard format so all key elements of the building fabric are covered and the report provides advice on maintenance of the property, and the steps to be taken before exchange of contracts. Please contact us for a no obligation quotation usually provided the same day.
Listed or Historic Building Survey
Listed and historic traditional buildings require specialist advice. Unfortunately we often identify the use of inappropriate materials, ill-considered or non-certified alterations and a lack of proactive maintenance which is causing deterioration and decay. Damp is the achilles heel of these permeable structures which were designed and built to 'breath'. Many modern building materials are simply incompatible and do more harm than good. It is therefore imperative when purchasing or planning improvements to such a property that professional advice is sought and appropriate techniques and master craftsmen are employed. We can guide you in this process starting with a detailed survey equivalent to an RICS level 3 survey with further opening-up works where required.
Listed Building
Reinstatement Cost Assessments
A Reinstatement Cost Assessment, often referred to as a ‘Fire Insurance Valuation’, provides an up-to-date calculation of the cost of rebuilding a property in the event of total or substantial destruction.
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For listed and historic buildings in particular, insurers will usually require a professionally prepared reinstatement cost to ensure that the property is neither underinsured nor over insured. This is essential because the cost of repairing or rebuilding a listed building — using appropriate materials, specialist craftspeople, and conservation techniques — is often significantly higher than standard construction.
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We can also carry out annual reviews of these assessments to keep them aligned with current construction costs and specialist conservation market rates, helping to maintain appropriate insurance cover year on year.
