Homebuyers & Commercial & Land Surveys
Our business is built on trust and integrity. This is intrinsic in everything we do, and is what gives our clients, colleagues, suppliers, partners and investors the confidence to work with us. We treat everyone individually, offering bespoke advice, which in turn builds long-term relationships and helps them to make better property decisions.
Homebuyers Surveys and Reports Levels 1, 2, and 3.
These are surveys that we undertake and that a buyer should always have performed when purchasing a Property. It is essential that once you have had an offer from a seller accepted and the property you are buying is now Sold (Subject to Contract) that you have a Homebuyers survey performed which will always protect your interests and highlight any relevant damages or defects the property may have or be experiencing at the time of survey.
There are essentially three types of Homebuyers Survey that are appropriate and that we routinely undertake in England & Wales, and these are called Level 1 Homebuyers and Level 2 Homebuyers Surveys and then Level 3 Building Survey respectively.
Ultimately one is more comprehensive than the other and our team will discuss with you which we together feel is more appropriate. Much will be dependent on the current age and condition of the property, current value, its location and any other significant information at the time. A Level 3 Survey is a Full Building Survey and is delivered according to the RICS Home Survey Standard (1st Edition).
LEVEL 1
Survey & Condition Report
A Homebuyer Survey Level 1, also previously known as a Condition Report or RICS Condition Report, is the most basic of the three surveys. It’s designed for home buyers or homeowners who are seeking a professional and objective report on the condition of a property.
A Level 1 Survey is best suited to conventionally built, modern properties (New Builds and those of only five to 10 years and are within warranty – not older, complex, or neglected properties.
As part of this condition report, our surveyor will carry out a visual inspection of the property but will not carry out any tests on the fabric or services of the building (e.g. electrics, plumbing, heating).
This report details the condition of the building, its services, and grounds, and will provide an assessment of the relative importance of any defects or problems. It will also highlight any relevant legal issues and/or obvious risks to the building, people, or grounds.
A RICS Level 1 Survey report does not include advice on repairs or ongoing maintenance. Where the surveyor cannot reach a conclusion with reasonable confidence about any aspect of the property, the report will provide recommendations for further investigations.
LEVEL 2
Survey & Condition Report
One of the most common choices for a standard house survey is a Home Survey Level 2 (often referred to as a “Homebuyer Report”).
This type of survey is ideal when buying a conventional house, flat or bungalow, which is built from common building materials and is in reasonable condition, and you would like information and advice on construction, condition and repairs.
The Level 2 survey report uses a clear ‘traffic light rating system to describe the condition rating of the property’s main features (such as glazing, roof, electrics, and exterior).
A RICS Level 2 Survey is a survey designed for those who want a professional opinion of the condition of the main elements of a property. It will suit a broad range of conventionally built properties but is unlikely to suit significantly extended or altered buildings, unique, older historic properties, or properties in a neglected condition.
When it comes to buying a property, there are many different types of surveys you can choose from. One of the most popular is the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Home Survey Report. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the condition of a property and is used by potential buyers to make an informed decision about whether to purchase a home.
Our Level 2 Home Survey Report includes an in-depth assessment of the condition of the property, including both visible and non-visible defects. The report provides detailed information on any major defects that may affect the value or safety of the property, as well as any minor defects that may require attention in the future. The report will also include advice on repairs and any maintenance that should be carried out, to ensure the property remains in good condition.
Your surveyor will also provide advice on any legal issues that may affect the property, such as boundary disputes or rights of way. They will also provide advice on energy efficiency and environmental matters, such as flood risk or subsidence risk. Our team will fully advise you and each survey and report are tailored to fully meet your requirements.
Our service is unrivalled in that we stay in contact with you acting as your professional property advisor until exchange and completion of your transaction.
LEVEL 3
Survey & Condition Report
The Level 3 building survey (also known as a structural survey) is the most detailed type of survey, and it provides greater detail about the structure and fabric of the property. This is essentially a full building survey provided in accordance with the Home Survey Standard (1st addition) RICS Professional Statement.
This report is specifically designed for houses that require a thorough and detailed investigation, are in poor condition, have been significantly altered or are particularly large. You’ll also want to choose this option if you’re planning major works on a property. Properties built on or over 1900 are advised to choose this option above all others.
A Building Survey includes a thorough inspection of the property by one of our surveyors, a digital-based detailed report on a wide range of issues, details of serious risks and dangerous conditions and an outline of repair options and the likely consequences of inactivity.
The RICS Home Survey – Level 3 service includes: A thorough inspection of the property and a detailed report based on the inspection
The surveyor who provides the Home Survey – Level 3 service aims to give you professional advice to:
Help you make a reasoned and informed decision when purchasing the property, or when planning for repairs, maintenance or upgrading the property and provide detailed advice on the condition whilst describing the identifiable risk of potential or hidden defects and to propose the most probable cause(s) of the defects based on the inspection and where practicable and agreed, provide an estimate of costs and likely timescale for identified repairs and necessary work.
Your surveyor will also provide advice on any legal issues that may affect the property, such as boundary disputes or rights of way. They will also provide advice on energy efficiency and environmental matters, such as flood risk or subsidence risk. Our team will fully advise you and each survey and report are tailored to fully meet your requirements.
Our Level 3 Survey and Report contains a complimentary specialist Property Valuation allowing you to make an informed decision on value and any further negotiations you may wish to undertake further with our professional advice and guidance.
Our service is unrivalled in that we stay in contact with you acting as your professional property advisor until exchange and completion of your transaction.
Residential & Commercial Drone Assisted Roof Inspections
Roof Inspections are essential when considering a Property Purchase or simply to evaluate and plan for maintenance.
Our expertise and innovation in drone technology allow us to conduct roof inspections, leak testing, and comprehensive surveys with unmatched efficiency and accuracy. We understand the importance of safety, and our methods ensure that we provide precise and detailed footage while minimising risks associated with traditional surveying methods.
Whether you are a Homeowner, Property Purchaser, Insurance Company, or Commercial Business our Drone Flight Photography and Videography with comprehensively capture the full picture. This can then be utilised as part of a detailed Building Survey report or whatever your requirement is but always tailored to your specific requirements.
Jigsaw Property Drone Assisted Flight Surveys can get a clear view of the roof without the dangers that come with climbing the building and checking the roof physically. Working with both homeowners and prospective buyers, these comprehensive inspection methods allow us to generate detailed imagery of the roof, chimney, and any additional features, with clear reporting that allows you to take action and consider your options. Given the nature of the roof survey, please be aware that flight and weather restrictions may apply, and we will guide you through the whole process so you are fully informed.
Valuation Appraisal & Report
We do provide specialist professional valuations and reports which are sometimes required for matters of Probate, Help to buy schemes, matrimonial and divorce proceedings and disputations, valuations for Inheritance Tax and also insurance costs assessments. This list is not exhaustive, and we can advise you further when in discussions with you.
