RESIDENTIAL SURVEYS
At Cowie Consulting, we provide clear, reliable residential surveying services designed to suit every type of home and every level of investigation.
We offer Home Survey (Level 2) reports for modern properties in generally good condition, Structure Only Surveys for a focused review of structural integrity, and Full Building Surveys (Level 3) for the most comprehensive assessment of a property’s construction, defects, and long-term condition. We also provide Specific Defect Surveys for targeted issues such as damp, movement, or roof leaks, along with Snagging Surveys for newly built or refurbished homes to ensure workmanship meets recognised standards.
For an additional fee and where required, we carry out drone inspections to access hard-to-reach roofs, chimneys, and high-level elements safely and accurately. RICS-compliant market valuations and BCIS insurance reinstatement valuations can also be added to any survey if required.
Home Survey (Level 2)
The RICS Home Survey (Level 2), formerly known as the Homebuyer Report, is suited to modern homes in generally good condition. It provides a clear, visual inspection that identifies urgent or significant issues, presented in a straightforward and easy-to-understand report.
This is a non-invasive survey focused on surface-level defects. If any concerns arise that require further investigation, we will outline the next steps and can provide structural advice where necessary.
A valuation is not included as standard, but an RICS-compliant market valuation and BCIS insurance reinstatement valuation can be added if required. The Level 2 survey offers a reliable overview of the property’s condition, helping you make an informed decision before purchasing.
Get in touch to find out whether a Level 2 Home Survey is the right choice for your property.
Structure Only Survey
Our Structure Only Survey is suitable for all property types and focuses solely on the key structural elements of the building. This includes walls, floors, roof structures, roof coverings, chimneys, flashings, and any indications of dampness or movement.
It’s one of our most popular options, offering a thorough assessment of structural integrity without the additional cost of evaluating non-structural components. The report provides clear conclusions on any defects that could affect the building’s stability, resale value, or future repair requirements.
Unlike a RICS Home Survey (Level 2), this survey not only identifies problems but also explains their likely cause and includes estimated repair costs. You receive practical, actionable recommendations rather than referrals for further investigation.
Full Building Survey (Level 3)
A Full Building Survey (Level 3) is the most detailed assessment available. It is recommended for older homes, unusual construction types, Listed Buildings, properties in poor condition, or situations where major refurbishment is planned.
This survey provides an in-depth examination of the building’s structure and overall condition. It includes everything covered in a Level 2 report but goes much further, offering detailed analysis of structural integrity, defects both visible and concealed, repair priorities, and guidance on future maintenance and potential renovation work.
We assess key elements such as structural stability, damp, insulation, drainage, and the visible condition of electrical, gas, and plumbing systems. Issues such as timber decay, concealed damp, and other hidden defects are also identified where possible.
A Level 3 survey can be a powerful tool when negotiating a purchase price, helping you fully understand the property before committing. RICS-compliant market valuations and BCIS insurance reinstatement valuations can also be added for an additional fee.
Specific Defect Survey
A Specific Defect Survey provides a targeted investigation into a particular building issue without the need for a full survey. We assess the cause, extent, and implications of the defect, supported by clear technical explanation and photographic evidence.
Typical issues include structural movement, subsidence, damp, roof leaks, timber decay, condensation, failing render or lintels, and wall tie corrosion. We also inspect spray foam insulation, identifying where it may have restricted ventilation, created moisture risk, or affected mortgage suitability.
Each report delivers a clear diagnosis with practical, cost-effective recommendations for repair or further investigation, giving you the information needed to resolve the problem with confidence.
Snagging Survey
A Snagging Survey is a focused inspection of a newly built or recently renovated property, carried out to identify defects, incomplete works, and items falling below accepted industry standards. Using NHBC technical guidance as a benchmark, we assess the quality of finishes, installations, and workmanship throughout.
Our report provides a clear, independent schedule of issues for the developer to address, helping ensure the property is handed over to the standard agreed and that any necessary remedial works are completed promptly and correctly.
