Building Surveys

Buying a property is an expensive and time-consuming commitment – there's no way around it. However, getting the correct Chartered Building Surveyor to carry out a full building survey is one way to reduce the stress. It gives you peace of mind that you know exactly what you're buying, before you commit to move forward with the sale.  

We specialise in full building surveys (previously termed structural surveys). We undertake these surveys on all kinds of domestic, commercial and institutional properties. This can range from small flats through to large country houses, schools to churches. No building is too small or large to get a full building survey. It may save a whole host of headaches further down the line!  

Inspection of Churches

We work closely with both the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church and regularly conduct quinquennial surveys of church buildings.  

Please contact us to see our Building Surveys Brochure, which sets out various matters covered in our building surveys. We'd be happy to provide a copy of this brochure on request.

Identifying and Resolving Building Defects 

Buildings can develop faults in numerous ways, ranging from minor issues that are easily remedied, to complex structural problems requiring in-depth technical investigation.  

At Wilde Spooner Raleigh, inspecting buildings, diagnosing defects and advising on remedial actions form a significant part of our work. We assess a wide range of issues across all types of properties. Some defects might be straightforward, others require deeper inspection. Our thorough approach ensures clients receive reliable advice, informing huge life decisions with confidence. Our suggestions mean buildings can be properly protected and maintained for years to come.  

Dampness and Timber Decay

Unfortunately, some structures do not stand the test of time. Years of exposure to the elements can lead to dampness and decay, slowly compromising a building's integrity. Left untreated, these issues can weaken the structure, damage masonry and create the perfect environment for rot and mould.  

At Wilde Spooner Raleigh, we are experts at diagnosing and resolving issues related to timber decay and dampness, helping preserve buildings for future generations. We have been called upon for a wide range of historic properties, included listed buildings in London Docklands, Marlborough House and Winchester City Mill. We can advise on how to identify, treat and prevent mould and dampness.  

We ensure that damp and decay do not stand in the way of your building's future.  

Insurance Claims

Few things are more distressing than seeing your home or property damaged by subsidence, flooding, fire, or water leaks. The aftermath can be overwhelming, but you don't have to go through it alone. At Wilde Spooner Raleigh, we help property owners through these difficult times, ensuring repairs and works are handled quickly, professionally, and with minimal stress. 

In many cases, insurance policies will cover the cost of professional fees for remedial work. We can act swiftly to arrange emergency works to restabilise the affected building. From there, we prepare detailed specifications and drawings to guide the reinstatement process.  

Whether you're facing the effects of a flood, fire or structural damage, our guidance supports you each step of the way. Allow us to help you bring normality back to your home, business, or project as quickly as possible. 

Navigating the Party Wall Act 

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 could affect your project if you're planning to work near a shared or boundary wall. This law sets out the rights and responsibilities of building owners in England and Wales when:  

  • Carrying out work on a shared (party) wall 
  • Excavating near a neighbour's property 
  • Building on or close to a boundary line 

We can help you navigate the legal and technical requirements of this act. Our clear and practical advice will help you comply with the act, serving the correct notices to neighbours in a timely manner. If an agreement can't be made, we can prepare a Party Wall Award, which ensures work proceeds lawfully and fairly. Where necessary, we can comply with the other party's surveyor to remedy this. 

We can't promise you'll be partying with your neighbours, but we can make sure The Party Wall Act is followed, and your project moves forward smoothly and in compliance with the law.  

Dilapidations and Schedules of Condition

The lessee and lessor relationship can be fraught with problems: especially when neither party knows their rights and responsibilities.  

This is where we can help. Wilde Spooner Raleigh can advise both parties on their repairing liabilities under the lease agreement.  

We work with landlords to develop concise appraisals of their tenants' liability for dilapidations. We also help devise the most appropriate way to resolve these dilapidation issues at the end of a commercial lease.  

Sometimes, repair works are necessary. Other times, a monetary settlement is preferred. We can help accommodate repairs so a building can be re-let as soon as possible.  

We also help tenants on their likely dilapidation liability and can assist to find the most appropriate way to settle dilapidation claims.