The Inspection

• The inspection is non-invasive. The Surveyor will inspect the inside and outside of the main building and all permanent outbuildings, but does not force or open up the fabric. This means that the Surveyor does not take up carpets, floor coverings or floorboards, move furniture, remove the contents of cupboards, roof spaces, etc., remove secured panels and/or hatches or undo electrical fittings. 

• The surveyor may use equipment such as a damp-meter, binoculars and torch, and may use a ladder for flat roofs no more than 3 metres above level ground (outside) if it is safe to do so. 

• The Surveyor will endeavour to inspect inside roof spaces where it is safe and practical to do so.  However, the surveyor reserves the right to make a judgement decision on site about the roof space and not inspect it, if it is not possible to gain access, or where full access is not possible due to safety or other factors.

• Services such as gas, water, plumbing, heating, drainage and electricity are generally hidden within the construction of the property. This means that only the visible parts of the available services can be inspected, and the Surveyor does not carry out specialist tests. 

• The visual inspection cannot assess the efficiency or safety of electrical, gas or other services, or whether they meet current regulations.  Similarly the inside condition of any chimney, boiler or other flue cannot be assessed. The Surveyor will recommend further inspection by a suitable specialist.

The outside of the property

• The surveyor inspects the condition of boundary walls, fences, permanent outbuildings and areas in common (shared) use. 

• To inspect these areas, the surveyor walks around the grounds and any neighbouring public property where access can be obtained. 

• Buildings with swimming pools and sports facilities are also treated as permanent outbuildings, but the surveyor does not report on the leisure facilities, such as the pool itself and its equipment, landscaping and other facilities (for example, tennis courts and temporary outbuildings).