Pre-purchase property inspections

Resale homes

In an existing home, we assess its condition and look for signs of building defects, deterioration or previous alterations that need attention. The aim is to distinguish maintenance needs from repairs and issues that call for further investigation. If you are planning a renovation, we can also assess the constraints affecting those works within the agreed scope.

New builds: an inspection before handover

A newly built home can still have workmanship defects or unfinished details. We inspect accessible elements, finishes, windows and doors, and construction junctions, together with any agreed functional checks that can be carried out during the visit. Recording these issues provides a clear basis for raising them with the developer or builder and requesting remedial work.

What we inspect

• The general condition of accessible building elements and visible signs of damp, cracking, corrosion or deterioration.
• Façades, roofs, terraces, junctions, windows and doors in areas that can be inspected safely.
• Finishes and detailing, particularly in new-build homes.
• The apparent condition of visible installations and functional checks within the agreed scope, subject to access and available utility supplies.
• Available technical documents, material uncertainties and the need for additional tests or specialists.

We agree the scope before the visit, taking into account the type, age and condition of the property and your needs. We also explain which areas or elements could not be checked.

A technical basis for negotiation

If we identify defects that require repair, a technical report can help you discuss having them put right before completion or renegotiate the price with the seller. We do not promise a discount: we provide documented findings about the property and the work that should be considered.

Where included in the agreed brief, we can advise on likely remedial work and indicative costs. This estimate is not a repair quotation or a valuation, and any price adjustment depends on agreement between the parties.

How we work

1. You send us the location, the information available and your concerns. We agree the scope of the inspection with you.
2. We arrange access with the owner and carry out the technical inspection and agreed checks.
3. We record our findings in a report with photographs, priorities and recommendations, stating the limitations of the inspection.
4. We discuss the report with you so that you understand the findings, outstanding checks and possible next steps.

Frequently asked questions