David Hannaford MRICS, one of Allcott’s Cambridge chartered building surveyors, recently spent some time on pro bono surveying work. He helped out a local housing charity by carrying out full building surveys of some of their housing stock.
Allcott Associates approached Cambridge Cyrenians as part of our charity programme. Through this initiative, we are able to help charities by reviewing the condition of their properties. David supported them with two Level 3 building surveys – one involving a 1960s terrace, and another, larger HMO.
Level 3 building surveys are a great way of getting a comprehensive insight into the condition of a property. The surveyor thoroughly inspects everything they have access to, assessing the condition and structural state of the entire property. They use their experience to comment on defects, and provide advice on issues that could potentially arise, or that might be hidden at the time of inspection.
In the survey report, the surveyor comments on all elements of the property, providing technical details on the construction methods and materials used. They cover any defects, whether minor, major or potential, as well as the general condition of the property’s services (such as heating, electricity and water systems). They also cover environmental hazards, including flood risk and Radon Tests, timber rot and woodworm, and any potential asbestos.
The survey report also includes details on repairs and maintenance, along with the costs of the works and suggestions for prioritisation. This can help homebuyers with house price negotiations, and it allows property owners and managers to budget accurately and forecast costs.
The cost of buying a house in Cambridge is extremely high, and rental prices are rising and social housing is in short supply. Therefore, the work done by charities like the Cambridge Cyrenians for homeless men and women in the city is vital. They have been doing excellent work, providing high quality accomodation for vulnerable people for the past half-century. To find out more or to offer support, visit their website.
