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Understanding RICS Level 3 Building Surveys in the UK: Striking the Right Balance in Reporting Defects When considering the purchase of a property, particularly older or more complex buildings, many buyers turn to Rectory Surveyors for a RICS Level 3 Building Survey , often referred to as a “full structural survey.” This survey represents the most comprehensive assessment available under the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) standards. It provides a detailed app

Designing Inclusive Spaces: How Rectory Surveyors Shape the Future of Accessible Buildings Accessibility in buildings is no longer just about compliance. A ramp here or a wider door there is no longer enough. Today, accessibility is about creating environments that genuinely work for everyone from the moment they enter. True inclusivity means comfort, independence, dignity, and usability, and at Rectory Surveyors, we specialise in helping clients deliver exactly that.   Build

CPR 35 Reports in Housing Disrepair: Purpose, Problems, and Practical Perspective In housing disrepair litigation, CPR Part 35 expert reports are frequently misunderstood and, in some cases, deliberately mischaracterised. Where an independent surveyor has produced a comprehensive and properly reasoned report identifying defects, causation, remedial works and reasonable costs, it is not uncommon for defendants to reject the findings outright. Rather than engaging with the subs

Insufficient Ventilation: The Hidden Disrepair Problem Social Landlords Must Address Introduction: The Hidden Disrepair Scandal Insufficient ventilation is a major cause of damp, mould, and long-term property damage. Rectory Surveyors explain why superficial fixes fail and how social landlords can address the root cause to protect tenants and reduce costs. Damp, mould, and structural defects often dominate conversations about housing disrepair. Yet one of the most pervasive a

The Most Overlooked Property Risks: What Rectory Surveyors Are Finding Behind UK Front Doors Buying a home is exciting, but beneath the surface lies a world of potential problems that most buyers never detect on their own.   At Rectory Surveyors, we routinely see two issues topping the list of “hidden surprises”: damp and asbestos. Both are common across the UK, yet both are frequently missed by buyers, especially those who choose not to commission a professional survey. In t

Bamboo vs. Knotweed: Understanding the Hidden Threat in Property Transactions As property transactions come under increasing scrutiny, bamboo a formidable contender in the realm of invasive plants is gaining attention. While many surveyors and homeowners are well-versed in the risks associated with Japanese knotweed, the potential damage caused by various species of bamboo is often overlooked. This understanding is vital for property professionals, buyers, and homeowners alik

Embracing Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: A Commitment to Supporting First-Time Buyers As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, the integration of cutting-edge technologies is increasingly shaping how properties are bought and sold. Among these advancements, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) stand out as transformative tools that can empower first-time buyers with valuable insights into the housing market. At Rectory Surveyors, we r

Understanding Awabs Law: Key Insights and Latest Developments Awabs Law plays a crucial role in discussions surrounding property transactions and surveying in the UK, particularly in relation to housing disrepair issues. This body of law primarily addresses the condition of buildings and compliance with statutory requirements, impacting homeowners, property developers, and surveyors. Ensuring that properties meet safety and structural integrity standards is essential, as fail

Making a Grade II Home Accessible for Life When I first met Mrs. H (name changed for privacy), she was worried, frustrated and deeply...

RICS Responds to Major Changes in Home Buying and Selling The housing market in the UK has been undergoing significant shifts due to...

Navigating Property Management in London: A Comprehensive Approach Finding a reliable property management service in London can often...

Post-Purchase Roadmap: Turning a RICS Survey into a Practical Maintenance Plan for the First Five Years Buying a home is the start of a...

Who Pays the Bill? Party Wall Costs Explained for Homeowners The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 in the UK governs the rights and...

From Anxiety to Assurance: A Surveyor’s Guide to Home Surveys Buying a home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions most...

When a Level 3 Home Survey Uncovers Serious Structural Defects - A Recent Case Study and Practical Next Steps for Buyers. As a RICS...