0116 4300 272
51 Henley Road, Leicester, LE3 9RD8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday
Building Survey Terms of Engagement
RICS Home Survey Information Sheet
RICS Building Surveys in Leicester and LeicestershireA Building Survey provides the most detailed assessment of a residential property’s condition. Our surveys are undertaken by RICS Chartered Surveyors and are intended to give clear, practical advice that supports informed decision-making before purchase.
We work with private buyers, owners and legal advisers across Leicester and Leicestershire, providing independent reports based on direct inspection and professional judgement.
What the Survey Involves
A Building Survey is a comprehensive inspection of all reasonably accessible parts of the property. The surveyor examines the structure, construction and visible condition of the building, actively looking for defects that could affect safety, performance or future maintenance.
The report explains what has been found, why it matters and the likely implications if defects are not addressed. Where the cause of a problem cannot be confirmed without further investigation, this is clearly stated so that appropriate follow-up can be considered.
Health and safety issues are identified, along with matters that may require input from your solicitor during the conveyancing process.
Properties That Benefit Most
A Building Survey is suitable for all residential properties but is particularly appropriate where the building is older, listed or of non-standard construction. It is also recommended where alterations are planned or where previous extensions or structural changes may affect the building’s performance.
In these cases, a more detailed inspection can help clarify risk and avoid unforeseen repair costs.
A Report Adapted to the Property
Building Surveys do not follow a fixed template. This allows the inspection and reporting to be tailored to the individual building and to any specific concerns raised before the survey is carried out.
Clients are encouraged to discuss particular issues in advance so that these can be addressed during the inspection. A valuation is not included as standard but may be provided by agreement if required.
Professional Standards and Independence
All inspections are undertaken by RICS Chartered Surveyors acting independently. We do not work for estate agents, developers or lenders, and our advice is not influenced by referral arrangements.
Reports are prepared in accordance with RICS professional standards and guidance, ensuring they are suitable for use in property transactions and, where necessary, further professional review.
The Importance of Proper Inspection
A Building Survey requires time, experience and careful inspection. Essential elements such as roof spaces, drainage access points and concealed areas must be examined where safe access is available.
Incomplete inspections can result in serious defects being missed or inappropriate advice being given. A professionally prepared Building Survey should explain not only what is visible, but also the limitations of the inspection and the significance of any uncertainty.
Local Knowledge and Practical Experience
Our surveyors have long-standing experience of inspecting properties in Leicestershire and are familiar with local construction methods, materials and common defects found in the area’s housing stock.
This practical experience supports balanced reporting that identifies genuine risks without overstating minor issues.
Requesting a Building Survey
If you are considering a Building Survey and would like to discuss the suitability of the inspection for a particular property, you are welcome to make contact for initial guidance. Fees are based on the size and complexity of the property and the scope of work required.
About the Surveyor
This Building Survey is undertaken by Steve Butler MRICS, a RICS Chartered Surveyor with over thirty years’ experience inspecting residential properties across Leicester.
Steve has carried out Building Surveys and structural inspections since qualifying as a Chartered Surveyor in 1993. His experience includes older and period properties, listed buildings, and homes that have been extended, altered or are suspected of having structural defects.
All surveys are based on direct, on-site inspection and professional judgement. Steve personally inspects each property and prepares the report, drawing on first-hand experience of local construction methods, materials and defects commonly encountered in the Derbyshire housing stock.
Alongside homebuyer surveys, Steve regularly prepares expert reports in relation to boundary and structural disputes and has experience providing independent professional opinion for legal proceedings. This work informs a careful, evidence-based approach to building inspection and reporting.
Steve Butler is regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and practises independently, with no referral arrangements with estate agents, developers or lenders.
A Building Survey is a detailed inspection of a property that reports on its construction, condition and defects. It is the most comprehensive survey available for residential properties.
Yes. The terms Building Survey and Structural Survey are commonly used to describe the same type of detailed inspection.
All Building Surveys are carried out by Steve Butler MRICS, a RICS Chartered Surveyor with over thirty years’ experience inspecting properties in Leicester and Leicestershire.
Yes. Building Surveys are particularly suitable for older properties, listed buildings, unusual construction types and homes that have been extended or significantly altered.
No. A Building Survey does not include a valuation unless this is specifically requested and agreed in advance.
Yes. Every Building Survey is based on a direct, on-site inspection. Steve Butler personally inspects the property and prepares the report.
