HCS
What is different about an HCS compared to any other form of survey?
Firstly the HCS is written in plain English, no confusing technical terms.
The survey is carried out by a qualified surveyor that is trained in domestic buildings and their problems.
PI insurance cover is held by the certification scheme and not the individual surveyor and so is always current.
The survey covers the inside and outside condition of the fabric of the building, the state of the buildings services and reports on the structure of the whole property. A simple coding of 1, 2, 3. 1 being no action required (nothing wrong), 2 some defects but not considered dangerous or detrimental at this point in time, 3 requires further investigation or is dangerous.
All defects found will be accompanied by a photograph of that defect.
The survey is carried out within two days of contract and is sent out within two days of completion.
The survey is the property of the client not the surveyor.
After you receive your survey the surveyor will contact you by phone (after a short time lapse for you to read it) and go through the report with you so you can clarify any points you do not understand.
Prices vary depending upon the type of property but range from £250 - £800 + for the larger mansion!
Time on site 3-4 hours, could be longer.
Download a Sample HCS (home condition survey, pdf 3Mb).