A surveyor’s inspection for a housing disrepair claim focuses on identifying and assessing issues affecting the property. This inspection is not a full Building Survey, and its scope is outlined below to provide clarity on what is examined during the process:
Areas Inspected
- Visual Examination: The surveyor conducts a visual inspection of the property, identifying obvious defects or disrepair in accessible areas.
- Dampness: The surveyor checks for visible signs of damp or moisture damage. Electronic moisture meters are often used to take readings, but no invasive methods (e.g., cutting into walls) are applied.
- Structural Elements: Walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and doors are assessed for damage or signs of wear and tear.
- Fixtures and Fittings: Kitchens, bathrooms, and other fittings are visually inspected to ensure they are in adequate condition.
Areas Not Inspected
- Specialist Testing: No tests are carried out for utilities and services such as plumbing, heating, electrical systems, or ventilation. These require specialist input if problems are suspected.
- Inaccessible Areas: Roof voids, floor voids, and other hidden or covered areas are not included in the inspection. Furnishings, floor coverings, and stored materials may limit the ability to examine certain parts of the property.
Materials and Hazards
The surveyor does not test for hazardous materials such as asbestos, high alumina cement (HAC), or wood-wool slabs unless specifically instructed and with specialist involvement.
Methods Used
- Observation and Reporting: The surveyor uses their expertise to identify potential issues based on what is visible and accessible at the time of inspection.
- Non-Invasive Techniques: The inspection does not involve destructive methods, such as removing coverings, drilling, or dismantling structures.
- Moisture Assessment: Dampness is assessed using a combination of visual checks and moisture meter readings.
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During the Inspection
The property is inspected in its current state. The surveyor works around existing furnishings and fittings and does not remove or disturb them to access hidden areas.
The inspection focuses on defects that could directly impact the habitability, safety, or suitability of the property for the tenant.
Limitations
- Hidden Issues: Some defects, such as woodworm infestation, wood rot, or vermin, may go undetected if they are hidden within inaccessible areas.
- Compliance and Regulations: The surveyor does not assess compliance with Building Regulations or other legal standards during the inspection.
Reporting
Following the inspection, the surveyor provides a report outlining their findings. This report focuses on disrepair observed during the inspection but is not a repair specification or a complete assessment of all potential issues within the property.