Building Surveys and Property Condition Reports
Independent building surveys and property condition reports for homeowners, purchasers and property owners across Lancashire and the wider North West who want a clearer understanding of a building before buying, maintaining or altering it.
Surveys are undertaken by Luke Haworth ACABE, combining professional building-engineering knowledge with more than 30 years of practical construction experience. Reports are written in clear language and focus on visible defects, likely causes, maintenance priorities and practical next steps.
Important information about our reports
Williams Survey & Design is not a RICS-regulated practice, and these reports are not RICS Home Surveys or mortgage valuations. They are suitable for clients seeking an independent assessment of condition who do not specifically require an RICS-branded report. Where a lender, insurer or solicitor has stipulated an RICS surveyor, this should be confirmed before instruction.
Is This Survey Right for You?
Our building surveys are suitable for:
Homebuyers seeking an independent assessment of a property
Existing owners concerned about defects or maintenance
People purchasing older or altered buildings
Clients planning refurbishment or extension work
Property owners who require a documented record of condition
Clients who do not require an RICS-branded survey or mortgage valuation
Not sure which report is appropriate? We will discuss the property, its age, construction and your particular concerns before recommending a survey.
Essential Condition Report
A concise overview for straightforward properties
Suitable for relatively modern, conventionally constructed homes that appear to be in reasonable condition.
The report identifies significant visible defects, urgent concerns and matters that may require further investigation.
Normally includes:
Visual inspection of accessible areas
General description of construction
Condition of principal building elements
Significant visible defects
Supporting photographs
Immediate safety or maintenance concerns
Recommendations for further investigation
Best suited to:
Modern houses, bungalows and flats of conventional construction
Choose the Right Survey
Williams Survey & Design offers three levels of inspection and reporting, allowing the service to be matched to the property’s age, construction, condition and complexity
3. Comprehensive Building Assessment
An in-depth assessment for older or complex buildings
Our most detailed residential condition service, intended for older, larger, altered or visibly deteriorated properties.
Normally includes:
Extensive assessment of construction and condition
Analysis of how defects may be related
Likely causation where reasonably possible
Appropriate repair principles and options
Consideration of traditional materials
Significant risks and anticipated liabilities
Repair priorities and sequencing
Recommendations for monitoring or specialist investigation
Detailed photographic record
Follow-up discussion of the principal findings
Best suited to:
Period properties, listed buildings, unusual construction, substantially altered homes and buildings affected by cracking, dampness or suspected movement
Request an Essential Condition Report
2. Detailed Property Survey
A broader inspection with practical repair advice
Suitable for older or altered properties where more detailed information is required about condition, maintenance and visible defects.
Normally includes:
A more detailed visual inspection
Commentary on significant defects
Likely causes where reasonably apparent
Practical repair and maintenance advice
Prioritisation of recommended actions
Matters requiring investigation before purchase
Issues to refer to a legal adviser
More extensive photographic evidence
Best suited to:
Traditional houses, older homes, extended properties and buildings showing visible defects or deferred maintenance.
Request a Detailed Property Survey
The table provides general guidance only. Before confirming an instruction, we will consider the age, construction, condition and complexity of the property and recommend an appropriate scope.
Request a Comprehensive Building Assessment
