Description
Smith Heritage Surveyors
When we established SHS, we wanted to set a standard in the property industry that was not about fee taking or squeezing in 3 surveys a day, we wanted to create a company that is based on high service, quality and superior knowledge. We have seen the industry first hand and know why it has such a dubious reputation, now we want to change it.
Smith Heritage Surveyors offer a broad spectrum of consultancy services to building owners, potential owners and investors. We can help make informed decisions about your investments and specialise in historic buildings and investment ventures.
We are passionate about providing a high level of service by ensuring our clients receive precise, simple to use information that is beneficial. We avoid the usual jargon and get straight to the point.
We can offer face to face appointments on-site to help you make decisions that are specific and useful to your needs. Whatever your property needs we can help. Please get in touch and have a no-obligation discussion.
Our Services
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
The RICS Building Survey is the most comprehensive report of its kind and should be used for larger or older properties, or when planning major works. The report provides an in-depth analysis of the property condition and includes advice on defects, repairs, and maintenance options.
As part of our surveys, we offer a free walk around with your surveyor on the day of inspection. This has received good feedback from clients and helps clients understand in detail what the surveyor is referring to and allows you to ask any questions and highlight any concerns that you might have.
When Should You Choose an RICS Building Survey vs a Homebuyers Survey?
You should choose an RICS Building Survey if you are dealing with a run-down, larger or older property, a building that is unusual or altered, or if you’re planning major works. Any building built pre-1930 the RICS recommends a Full Level 3 Building Survey.
RICS Homebuyer Survey
The RICS Homebuyer Report or Level 2 Report is the most popular survey on the market. RICS state that this type of survey is suitable for most buildings of standard construction built after 1930. It is designed to provide a purchaser with an independent and thorough overview of a property concentrating on significant matters that may typically affect value and to enable them to make an informed decision whether to proceed or not.
Our homebuyers surveys are undertaken by the same surveyors who undertake Level 3 surveys and have significant knowledge of building defects, planning and legal matters.
Listed Building Survey
A historic Building Survey or Listed Building Survey is a specialist survey performed by professionals qualified in Conservation and comply with BS7913:2013 Guide to the Conservation of Historic Buildings.
This survey is like the RICS Level 3 surveys and incorporates all of the in-depth analysis that you would expect to find. However, additionally, we look at the type of changes and works that have occurred and ensure they are legal and in keeping with the planning requirements.
Damp and Timber Survey
We are specialists at detecting damp in buildings and can provide detailed reports on the causes of damp, and most importantly, how to solve the issue.
If you have had a survey and they have advised further investigation by a PCA damp specialist then get in touch, we can help. Do not be pushed around by the mortgage company or estate agents and seek professional advice. We never recommend damp proofing and have never seen a true case of rising damp. If you’ve been told you need this, then get in touch with us.
Our damp and timber surveys will report on the causes of damp within your property and then specify the appropriate remedial repairs and actions that will help alleviate the problem.
Party Wall
The Party Wall Etc. Act 1996 is an act of parliament which requires anyone proposing works to their property to formally notify the owners of the neighbouring properties before commencement.
Defects Survey
Defects reports will involve analysis and inspections of the causes and extent of the defects that are present. Types of common defects that we often deal with are subsidence and heave, cracking brickwork, movement of structural timbers and settlement.
Planning & Design Services
At Smith Heritage Surveyors we undertake a wide range of design services from simple extensions, floor plans, to full planning applications and building control drawings.
