When is a survey not a survey?

When it’s a valuation. Most lenders will obtain a valuation on a property to decide whether they will lend. The valuation will normally be their own benefit even though the client has paid for it. It is imperative that the client knows the condition of the structure ( both inside and outside ) including the workings of the Property before exchanging contracts irrespective of whether they are obtaining a mortgage or not. A valuation survey is of little value as it does not include a check of the planning history of the property or check for breaches of the planning legislation. It is also questionable as to how detailed a structural issues are considered in valuation surveys.

We always advise strongly that you have a full property survey carried out by a suitably qualified engineer/architect with adequate levels of professional indemnity insurance.