Building Survey Vs Homebuyer's survey

aplam_chaplam

Hi All,

I am in process of buying a house. Mortgage has been approved. It is 1930's semi detached house.

I am not sure whether I should go for a home buyers survey or building survey. House needs re-decoration and its been extended on the back (18X6) lean to area. There is no other extension done.
Which survey should I go for, HOme buyer's or Builders? Also If I choose to go for Builder's survey then doe it include things done in HOme buyer's survey + some extra things (Structrual survey) or Builder's survey is totally different?

Look forward to hear from fellow members soon

aplam_chaplam

Can someone please help a newbie? I am a FTB so not sure about the surveys.. please help..

tbs624

Click here for an easy reference chart to the differences between a mortgage valuation, an HSV and a full building survey


You may also like to trawl through this

phead

tbs624 wrote: »

Click here for an easy reference chart to the differences between a mortgage valuation, an HSV and a full building survey

I think thats in theory, in practice both are very similar and it depends on the quality of the surveyor doing the job. I wouldn't bother with a full survey again.

Airwolf1

I've copied this from our site (so no copyright infringement ;-).

Home Buyers Survey and Valuation Report

This Report is based upon a format drawn up by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and gives prospective purchasers information on the general condition of a property, any significant factors likely to affect the value of the property, the value of the property on the open markets and the value for insurance purposes.
The information is provided in a straightforward format which is easy to read and understand. It is based upon a visual inspection and as much of the exterior and interior of the building as is accessible with safety and without undue difficulty including roof voids, flat roofs, outbuildings, site boundaries etc. and an overall impression of the services will be given.
This type of Report is the most commonly used and suitable for most 20th century properties, but structures which are unusual by virtue of design or construction, or very large properties may require a more detailed report but we will be able to advise during the preliminary discussion.
The cost of the Report will depend upon its size, type, location and value but considerably less than for a full Building Survey.
The Building Survey (previously known as a Structural Survey)

A Building Survey is an investigation into the assessment of the construction and condition of the building. It is based upon a detailed inspection in as much depth as is possible without damaging the building or contents. The Report details important elements of the structure and fabric, and the likely cause of any defects and what repairs are recommended as well as advising whether further investigation by Specialists may be considered desirable.
The principal headings of the Report are: roof and roof void; rainwater goods; brickwork and walls (including internal partitions); stability; windows and doors; floors; dampness; joinery; services; outbuildings; specific requirements and summary. It does not normally include an open market value or insurance value although this can be included if required.
The Report will normally include guidance on maintenance remedial works and detailed comment upon individual defects.