BASIC TERMS OF ENGAGEMENT

With permission from the homeowner, we will undertake a full visual and non-invasive inspection which consists of the following:

• We inspect roof, chimneys and other surfaces on the outside of the building from ground level and, if necessary, from neighbouring public property and with the help of binoculars.
• We inspect the inside and outside of the main building and all permanent outbuilding, but we do not force or open the fabric of the building.
• We inspect the roof structure from inside the roof space if there is access and visually inspect the roof structure with attention paid to those parts vulnerable to deterioration and damage (although we do not move or lift insulation material, stored goods or other contents).
• We will attempt to open a sample of the windows and doors
• We examine floor surfaces and under-floor spaces so far as there is safe access to these via an inverted ‘head and shoulders’ inspection.
• We also inspect the parts of the electricity, gas/oil, water, heating and drainage services that can be seen, but we do not test them.
• We will attempt to lift accessible inspection chamber covers to drains (where it is safe to do so and without causing damage and visually inspect the chamber.
• We inspect the condition of the boundary walls, fences, permanent outbuildings and areas in common (shared) use.  To inspect these areas, we walk around the grounds and any neighbouring public property where access can be obtained.  Where there are restrictions to access (e.g. creeper plants prevent closer inspection), these are reported, and advice is given on any potential underlying risks that may require further investigation.

LIMITATIONS & EXCLUSIONS

At the point at which the survey is carried out, although it is for your benefit, you will not own the property and therefore the inspection will be subject to limitations. The surveyor will curtail the inspection if they feel it is unsafe to continue for any reason (including the risk of damage to the property itself, risks to any occupiers or visitors and risks to the safety of the surveyor etc.).

FEES & PAYMENT TERMS

Our fees are based primarily on the degree of responsibility and skill involved and the time necessarily taken up by the matter. Certain other factors may also be considered in calculating fees, and these include the complexity of the matter, the value of any property involved, and the special urgency of the matter.

CANCELLATION

Once the Declaration of Terms is signed and returned to us by you, the client, you have 14 days from the date of the agreements to cancel the instruction within reason (Cancellation Period).  The Cancellation Period shall expire after 14 days from the day the contract comes into existence.  If you wish to exercise your right to cancel within this period, you must inform us in writing.  However, if you instruct the surveyor to perform the survey during the Cancellation Period, you will be liable for the whole amount of the surveyor’s fees for performing the inspection and for the preparation of the report.

A full copie of the terms of engagement will be provided before an inspection takes place.