SURVEYING
Building surveys / structural surveys
Major defects reports
House surveys and homebuyer surveys
EXPERT WITNESS
Expert Witness Report on matters such as quality of materials and workmanship
ABOUT US
We are a progressive charted surveying company dedicated to providing clients with advice on a range of constructional pathology matters relating to both residential and commercial property.
As members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) we pride ourselves on our professional and ethical approach to all clients and their requirements. We are also approved to act as Expert Witness and have a wealth of experience in this area.
With over 30 years of experience in Defect Diagnosis and Building Pathology, we can offer Building Surveying services ranging from Residential Homebuyer and Building Surveys to Commercial Dilapidations. Further details of the types of surveys available are detailed on this site.
Why Choose Us?
Regulated by RICS, the CIOB and the CABE
Experts in both commercial and residential property
Diverse range of services tailored to individual needs
Strong local ties and knowledge combined with surveying expertise
Treating our clients as individuals to provide advice that is right for them in every situation
What we do…
SURVEYS
Freetec Associates Chartered Surveyors are able to provide a great service for house surveys, house purchase reports with fully indexed property inspection and building surveys
HOME SURVEYS
Reports cover all significant aspects of the property; it reports on any serious defects
PARTY WALL
Assisting in preventing building disputes between neighbours and the party wall act allows surveyors to award and determine disputes without redress to civil litigation.
EXPERT WITNESS
We as RICS Chartered Surveyors can act for either or both parties to a dispute and can be engaged as a joint expert for the preparation of Expert Witness reports
ARCHITECTURAL PLANS
Complete service from concept to design and realisation. This includes the preparation and submission of applications and liaising with associated authorities and professionals to ensure the process runs smoothly.
THERMAL IMAGING
investigate and to diagnose otherwise undetectable parts of your building using the latest thermal imaging technology.
ENERGY PERFORAMANCE
Freetec Associates Ltd have qualified inspectors / assessors and are able to produce EPCs or the more detailed HCRs on behalf of individual owners or their agents.
SURVEYS
Freetec Associates Chartered Surveyors are able to provide a great service for house surveys, house purchase reports with fully indexed property inspection and building surveys
Freetec Associates Chartered Surveyors are able to provide a great service for house surveys, house purchase reports with fully indexed property inspection and building surveys
Surveys
Whether you are looking for a homebuyer survey or a full building survey, Freetec Associates Chartered Surveyors are able to provide a great service for house surveys, house purchase reports with fully indexed property inspection and building surveys, The © RICS homebuyer survey is a good entry level survey provided at a competitive price by this local company based in Liverpool Merseyside
You may be interested to know that a building survey is what has historically been referred to as a full structural survey.
A homebuyer survey is the new version of the RICS homebuyer report this is an established industry standard report designed to give you the information to enable you to make an informed decision on your property purchase.Whether you are looking for a homebuyer survey or a full building survey, Freetec Associates Chartered Surveyors are able to provide a great service for house surveys, house purchase reports with fully indexed property inspection and building surveys, The © RICS homebuyer survey is a good entry level survey provided at a competitive price by this local company based in Liverpool Merseyside
You may be interested to know that a building survey is what has historically been referred to as a full structural survey.
A homebuyer survey is the new version of the RICS homebuyer report this is an established industry standard report designed to give you the information to enable you to make an informed decision on your property purchase.Whether you are looking for a homebuyer survey or a full building survey, Freetec Associates Chartered Surveyors are able to provide a great service for house surveys, house purchase reports with fully indexed property inspection and building surveys, The © RICS homebuyer survey is a good entry level survey provided at a competitive price by this local company based in Liverpool Merseyside
You may be interested to know that a building survey is what has historically been referred to as a full structural survey.
Home Surveys
| Homebuyer Survey |
A Homebuyers Survey Report is used for any residential property of recent origins and of conventional construction. This report covers all significant aspects of the property, notes any serious defects and supplies the purchaser with both market and insurance valuations. Unlike the Building Survey, any defects found will be mentioned only as a warning to the client that serious defects exist and make appropriate recommendations for further inspection by specialists. Read more…
Home Survey Report
This is a completely new form of survey which has been developed by ISVA from the ground up. The objective has been to provide a concise report which will include advice about the general condition of the property and summarise those major defects and shortcomings which might affect the decision to purchase. It is written in plain English and can include a valuation. Read more…
Building Survey
(formerly known as a Structural Survey)
These used to be called Structural Surveys, which is misleading because they cover much more than just the structure, and they are now referred to as Building Surveys.
They are a much more detailed survey than the Homebuyer Survey and we will advise on the structural stability of the building, with particular reference to trees nearby and whether they pose a threat, together with recommendations for remedial works. It will give a detailed description of the construction and inherent defects which may occur over a longer period of time. It will also offer long-term maintenance advice. A valuation is not normally provided, but can be if requested.
If the property was built prior to 1950 or is not the usual form of construction, it is more appropriate to have a Building Survey carried out. A Full Building Survey Report provides a detailed report and examines and describes each element of the property individually. A note of it’s condition and an opinion as to how or why certain defects have arisen are explained and how, from the surveyors point of view, the problem can be put right.
This is the most comprehensive form of inspection and report and includes a photographic record. The inspection covers the roof, load bearing walls, and floors, together with a check for all types of dampness, woodworm attack, and fungal decay of timber. Visual inspection is made of the electrical installations, plumbing, heating and drains as well as all interior fittings, lightweight partitions, ceilings, plastering, staircases, skirting boards, internal doors, kitchen units, fireplaces, sanitary ware and floor coverings.
Externally, the condition of fences, driveways, paths and outbuildings is assessed and comment made as to the site and surroundings.
Elemental Building Survey with Services
(also known as Roof, Walls, Floors and Services)
This survey covers the roof, load-bearing walls, and floors, together with dampness checks of all types, woodworm and fungal decay of timber as well as visual inspection of the electrical installation, hot and cold plumbing installations, central heating and foul drains. No tests are applied of the services at this stage. The intention is to assess the age of each installation, its condition and whether there could be problems in the foreseeable future. If this appears to be the case, we usually recommend further inspection and testing by qualified specialists.
Elemental Building Survey Only
(also known as Roof, Walls and Floors)
This survey covers the roof, load-bearing walls, and floors, together with dampness checks of all types, woodworm and fungal decay of timber. It does not include for electrical installations, plumbing and heating or drains and nor does the report comment upon the interior fitting out of the property – ie; plastering, ceilings, lightweight partitions, internal joinery etc.
Valuation Services
Expert valuation reports can be provided for many purposes including matrimonial disputes, tax liabilities, probate, estate planning, building disputes and other litigation matters. With our wealth of experience in property valuation we can offer development appraisals and advice about maximising the value of a property with development potential. Valuations for mortgage, compulsory purchase, rent assessment and pension funds are all provided by our experienced surveyors.
Specific Defect Surveys
Occasionally, clients require advice on a particular aspect of a building such as an individual crack, dampness or other problem, which may have been observed during maintenance work or raised within a limited survey or mortgage valuation report. We can tailor our service to the particular requirements of our clients and provide specific advice without necessarily having to undertake a full survey of the building.
New Build Survey
(also known as Snagging List)
This report is used for any new property of recent origins and of conventional construction. The report covers all significant aspects of the property which can be visually inspected and takes into account that the property may not have settled down sufficiently for defects to become apparent. It does give the purchaser a check list of ‘snags’ which can be presented to the seller/builder to rectify.
Party Wall
Party Wall etc Act 1996
Liverpool Based Party Wall Surveyor
Acting for Building Owners
When acting for Building Owners we:
| • Ascertain and confirm ownerships by way of undertaking Land Registry searches, speaking with solicitors and making any other enquiry as required to ascertain ownership.. |
|
| • Serving the required Party Wall notices upon Adjoining Owners. | |
| • Preparing Schedules of Condition in respect of Adjoining property relating to the party wall or excavations that affect the works. | |
| • Speaking with and confirming details with Building Owners, in particular their architects and structural engineers, to assist with and help produce all necessary drawings, to assist with the serving of the Party Wall notices and for completion of the Party Wall Award. | |
| • Drafting the Party Wall Award and agreeing the details, terms/contents with the Adjoining Owners’ Surveyors. |
|
| • Agreeing additional Party Wall Awards as necessary. | |
| • Monitor the work during the contract period and at final completion to confirm that all work has been done as allowed for within the award in accordance with the party wall etc act 1996. |
Acting for Adjoining Owners
When acting for Adjoining Owners we:
| • Examine Party Wall notices served by the Building Owner or his/her surveyor to verify their legal validity. | |
| • Speak with the Building Owner’s Surveyor, visit the adjoining property and agree the Schedule of Condition. | |
| • We negotiate the content of any Party Wall Award. | |
| • Monitor the works from time to time during the building contract period, all as detailed in the Party Wall Award. | |
| • Checking the Schedule of Condition after all works are completed and assess defects to be remedied. |
Acting for Both Owners
When acting for both Owners we:
| • Act impartially in administrating the act and will combine the roles as listed above. |
| Please download our Advisory Leaflet for more information – Download |
Expert Witness
Expert Witness Reports
The format of expert witness reports is governed by the courts Civil Procedure Rules and any Practice Directions. The Expert Witness Report will aim to give relevant opinion of the evidence, assist in establishing relevant facts, identify issues which will require decisions by the court and explore the areas where agreement may be possible.
Architectural Plans
Planning Permission is usually required if you intend to alter the appearance of your home in any way with an extension, conservatory, Dormers or should you wish to change the use or divide part of a building for use as a separate dwelling, however, there are certain proposals that do not* require a formal planning application such as small extensions, garage conversions and loft conversions. We will be able to advise you of the appropriate planning process once we have visited the project site.
Thermal Imaging Surveys
CARRIED OUT BY A CHARTERED SURVEYOR
You may be interested to learn how thermal imaging actually works, all objects that are at a temperature above zero (-273°C) emit infrared energy, this energy can be seen and analysed with the use of thermal imaging cameras. Thermal images are easily mistaken for X-RAY images however, the two technologies are very different thermal imaging omits none of the dangerous radioactive emissions and can be used safely even on people.
Image of recently discovered under floor leak from heating pipework within a floor screed
Image of cold bridging and missing insulation to a property
Dampness detected following installation of cavity wall insulation.
Energy Performance
Certificate
As of August 2007, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has become a mandatory element of a Home Information Pack, to be provided by a seller prior to marketing and made available to any prospective purchaser of a residential property.
The government has made a commitment to encourage conservation of energy and reduction of carbon emissions in a wide variety of ways but, as far as residential property is concerned, EPC’s will provide prospective purchasers with information on the energy efficiency of the property concerned and it’s service installations. The survey and assessment of the property to collect the information will be relatively detailed, but the information will be provided in an easy to understand format, rather like the efficiency grading on many modern appliances.
Energy Performance Certificates can only be provided by qualified Energy Assessors or registered Home Inspectors, sometimes in conjunction with a Home Condition Report (HCR). Freetec Associates Ltd have qualified inspectors / assessors and are able to produce EPCs or the more detailed HCRs on behalf of individual owners or their agents. Please contact us for any further advice.
From 1st June 2007, each home will have to be inspected and an Energery Performance Certificate prepared, before a property is marketed for sale. The Energy Performance Certificate is similar to the certificates now provided with domestic appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.
Its purpose is to record how energy-efficient a property is as a building. The certificate will provide a rating of the property from A to G, where A is very efficient and G is very inefficient.
Two ratings are shown. The environmental impact rating is a measure of a home’s impact on the environment in terms of carbon dioxide (C02) emissions – the higher the rating, the less impact it has on the environment. The energy-efficiency rating is a measure of a home’s overall efficiency. The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the home is, and the lower the fuel bills are likely to be. The average property in the UK is in bands D-E for both ratings.
Each rating is based on the performance of the building itself and its services (such as heating and lighting), rather than the domestic appliances within it. This is known as an asset rating. The certificate also lists the potential rating of the building if all the cost-effective measures were installed.
The ratings will vary according to the age, location, size and condition of the building. The potential rating on the certificate will take these factors into account, and the suggested measures will be tailored so that they are realistic for the particular building.
The Energy Performance Certificate lists cost-effective measures that homeowners can take to improve the energy efficiency of the building. This can mean lower energy bills for the occupiers, and could make homes more attractive to potential purchasers. The certificate will provide contact details for the Energy Savings Trust, who can help you find out whether you could be eligible for grants or discounts to help carry out these improvements to your home. It will also list simple ways that changes in behaviour can save you energy and money – without the need for any works.
What happens to Energy Performance Certificates once they’re done?
All domestic Energy Performance Certificates are lodged in a central database. Energy Assessors (through their Accreditation Schemes) lodge them as they produce them, and each is given a unique reference number. Access to the database is restricted, so only those who have the unique reference number can access the certificate for a particular property. Not all buildings are used in the same way, so energy ratings use “standard occupancy” assumptions, which might be different from the specific way you use your building.
What different methods of calculation are used for homes and for other buildings?
All the methodologies used to produce Energy Performance Certificates consider factors such as the size, age, location of a building, and how it’s heated, lit and insulated.
Please contact us if you wish to book an EPC inspection.
Gallery
FAQ’s
If I decide to use your service what timescale are we speaking of?If I decide to use your service what timescale are we speaking of?
Our reports are normally prepared and dispatched within two working days.Our reports are normally prepared and dispatched within two working days.
What types of survey are available?
There are various types and you should read the Guidance Note on the following pages. Essentially the less expensive type is known as a Home Buyer’s Report and the more extensive report, which is usually reserved for larger or older houses, is known as a Building Survey. We also offer pre survey, home condition and single defect reports if you need something specific just ask.
If I am purchasing a flat what report would you suggest?
Invariably the Home Buyer’s report is sufficient for the purpose.
Are your reports illustrated?
All our reports have an option of photographs of the property to be included
If I have any particular concerns are you able to address those specially?
On receipt of a concise note from you we will be happy to address individual points in the body of the report and discuss them later also.
On what basis do you charge fees?
Our reports are normally prepared and dispatched within two working days.Our reports are normally prepared and dispatched within two working days.
If I decide to use your service what timescale are we speaking of?If I decide to use your service what timescale are we speaking of?
Our reports are normally prepared and dispatched within two working days.Our reports are normally prepared and dispatched within two working days.
After I have received the report is any further help offered?
Although we normally work alone at the time of inspection we are always happy to meet the client at the property, after the report has been read, in order to clarify any points of concern.
Is your firm insured?
In common with all Chartered Surveyors we are obliged to carry appropriate professional indemnity insurance.
Contact us
Telephone: 0151 489 5440
Mobile: 0777 075 5933
Email: info@hspack.co.uk
Address:
Freetec Associates Ltd
105 Tarbock Road
Huyton
Merseyside
L36 5TD
