Hunter Ellis provides independent residential building surveys for property buyers across Bristol, Gloucestershire and South Wales.
A professional building survey helps you understand the true condition of a property before committing to purchase. Our inspections identify defects, structural concerns and maintenance issues that may affect the property now or in the future.
All surveys are carried out personally by Mark Tutton and reports are written clearly so that clients can understand the condition of the building and make informed decisions.
The Level 3 Building Survey is the most comprehensive inspection available and is recommended for:
older properties
buildings that have been altered or extended
properties of non-standard construction
homes where significant defects may be present
The survey includes a detailed inspection of the accessible parts of the building, including:
roof coverings and chimney stacks
external walls and structure
internal walls, floors and ceilings
roof structure and loft spaces
windows, rainwater goods and external joinery
The report explains the construction of the property, defects identified during the inspection and practical recommendations for repair or further investigation where appropriate.
This survey provides the most detailed understanding of a property's condition before purchase.
The Level 2 Home Survey is suitable for conventional residential properties that appear to be in reasonable condition and have not been significantly altered.
It is most commonly recommended for properties built using traditional construction methods where no major structural concerns are apparent.
The survey includes a visual inspection of the accessible parts of the building, including:
roof coverings and chimney stacks
external walls and structural elements
windows, doors and external joinery
rainwater goods including gutters and downpipes
internal walls, ceilings and floors
roof spaces where access is available
permanent outbuildings and boundary structures where relevant
The report highlights significant defects and matters that may affect the property’s condition or value.
Where issues are identified, the report explains the nature of the defect and the potential implications for the property. Where appropriate, recommendations may be made for further investigation.
This survey provides buyers with a clear professional overview of the property’s condition before purchase.
Drone inspections allow safe assessment of roofs, chimneys and other high-level building elements that cannot be viewed clearly from ground level.
High-resolution aerial imagery is captured to examine the condition of roof coverings, chimney stacks, flashings and rainwater goods without the need for scaffolding or specialist access equipment.
Drone inspections are typically included as part of a Level 3 Building Survey, where appropriate, and can also be arranged as a standalone inspection where access to roof areas is otherwise restricted.
Where a specific concern has been identified within a property, a targeted inspection can be undertaken to investigate the issue and provide professional advice.
Common examples include cracking, dampness, suspected structural movement or other isolated defects affecting the building.
Following inspection, a written report is provided explaining the nature of the defect, the likely cause and the potential implications for the property.
Reports are prepared clearly and impartially and are often suitable for sharing with contractors, insurers or legal advisers where professional evidence of the defect is required.