The Building Survey (often called the structural survey).

This is the most detailed form of survey and is suitable for all types of property, of all ages.

The property will be subject to a thorough and detailed survey of all areas, subject to access.
We will inspect as much as possible of the fabric of the property, but we cannot cause damage and must respect the privacy of the occupiers. Service installations are visually inspected, but it is not possible (and unlawful in some instances) for us to undertake testing. However, if required, this can be arranged with specialist contractors (this is often best done following the initial survey).

We will telephone you (if possible, the same day) with an initial verbal report outlining our survey findings. The report will be sent quickly to the client and if required, to their Legal Advisers. The written survey report, in full colour and richly illustrated with numerous photographs, will cover all aspects of the construction and condition of the property. The survey will contain clear recommendations on repairs and any further actions required for each element of the property. Areas of concern, particularly with respect to future repairs and maintenance, will be clearly highlighted.

Unlike many surveyors, we believe that a valuation of the property is essential to place our survey advice in context. A property in very poor condition may still be worth the price proposed, or a reduction may need to be recommended. For this reason, a Marshall’s building survey will usually include a market valuation. An insurance reinstatement cost assessment is also usually provided in the survey.

Click here for your Building Survey Quote.

Hyperlink to a PDF document.    View the terms of engagement for the building survey  (Adobe PDF)
Hyperlink to a PDF document.    View a sample building survey  (Adobe PDF)

New Property
If you are purchasing a new property, it is usually preferable to have a Snagging Report undertaken. This type of Building Survey is set out in a tabular format, and focuses only on the condition of the individual elements of the property. This type of condition report enables the client to present a comprehensive list of repairs to the builders for action.


Hyperlink to a PDF document.    View the terms of engagement for the snagging report  (Adobe PDF)
Hyperlink to a PDF document.    View a sample Snagging Report (Adobe PDF)


Cancellations.
The client will be entitled to cancel their instructions by notifying Marshall's by close of business on the day preceding the day of the Inspection. In the event of such cancellation, all fees will be refunded and no charges made. 

Marshalls will not proceed with the instructions if, after arriving at the property, we conclude:
a) that it is of a type of construction of which we have insufficient specialist knowledge to be
able to complete the instruction satisfactorily; or
b) that it would be in the typical Client’s best interests to be provided with an alternative type of inspection, rather than the service instructed.

In case of such cancellation, the Surveyor will refund any money paid by the Client for the Service, except for expenses reasonably incurred. In the case of cancellation by Marshalls, the reason(s) will be fully explained to the Client.