Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need my own Survey?

For most of us, buying a house is likely to be the biggest financial investment of our lives. Moving home can also be one of the most traumatic experiences. Carroll & Partners provide a range of services designed to protect your investment and help in the decision making process. Our aim as Chartered Surveyors is to give you sound advice and a reliable service.

I already have a Mortgage Valuation report...

Even if you are seeking a mortgage — and may be paying for a Mortgage Valuation report — it is still advisable and prudent to arrange a survey by your own surveyor.

The reason is simple: the Mortgage Valuation report is prepared for the lender - not for you, the borrower. It answers only the lender's questions concerning the appropriate security for your loan. You cannot rely on it to answer the questions which concern your personal interests.

What choice of surveys do I have?

There are two main types of survey:-

	HOMEBUYER Survey & Valuation	Building Survey
Type of property	Conventional houses, flats, bungalows, etc., in apparently reasonable condition	Any residential or other property, in any condition
Type of service	Economy package in standard form	Custom-made to client's individual needs
Objects of service	To assist client to: (i) make an informed judgement on whether or not to proceed; (ii) decide whether or not property is a reasonable purchase at agreed price; and (iii) assess urgent and significant matters before exchanging contracts	To provide client with: (i) assessment of construction/ condition of property; and (ii) technical advice on problems and on remedial works
Special features	Focus on urgent and significant matters	Details of construction/ materials/defects
Valuation	Integral part of HOMEBUYER Service	Provided as agreed extra
Form of Report	Compact, fixed RlCS/lSVA format	Usually much longer, in surveyor's format

Why use an Architect?

Architects are trained to take your brief and can see the big picture – they look beyond your immediate requirements to design flexible buildings that will adapt with the changing needs of your home or business.

How much does it cost?

Architect’s fees can be based on a percentage of the total construction cost, on time expended, or a lump sum. You can select all or part of an architect’s service, from an initial design discussion through to the final delivery of the project on site.

Working with an architect

Whether you intend to construct a new building, expand your current facility, or adapt an existing structure, it makes sense to consult a professional.

Writing the brief

The ultimate success of your project depends on the quality of your brief i.e. your ability to clearly describe for your architect the requirements and functions of your building, and proposed methods of operation and management.

The planning process

You are obliged to comply with legislation concerning planning, Building Regulations and health and safety.

Preparing to build

With planning approval in place, your architect can recommend an appropriate form of building contract and will prepared drawings with technical specifications which describe your agreed proposals, for selected builders to cost.

Work in progress

Your architect can, if you require, monitor the builder’s work in terms of meeting the standards required, finishing on time and not exceeding the contract figure.