Book an inspection
For most projects we will carry out a number of site inspections. This is to ensure works are being completed in accordance with the building regulations. It is your or your builder’s responsibility to contact us at each stage to allow an inspection to be carried out. Depending on the project, some of these can be undertaken at the same time.
How to book
To book an inspection or if you want advice from your surveyor before you start any building works call 01622 602701.
What happens next
You must tell us at least 48 hours before you begin any work, this will be your first inspection once work has started.
When you request an inspection, we aim to complete this by the next working day, if the request has been made before 4pm. If you call us before 10am where possible we will aim to come out that same day, this will depend on our workloads. We are unable to give an exact time for the inspection, but if you request morning or afternoon, we will try to accommodate this.
Checks we carry out
Commencement
This first site inspection allows us to discuss the project with the builder, including any conditions that may apply to the application and checking that the site is as shown.
Excavation for foundation
This allows ground conditions to be checked. We will consider all or some of the following:
- how deep the existing foundation is
- what capacity the ground can bear
- how close and deep drains and manholes are
- how close trees are or recently removed trees
- whether the building is on made up ground
- if Southern Water approval is required, as you may be building over a public foul sewer
Drains
All new drainage is inspected before it is covered. We will check:
- suitability of material used
- fall and line of the drain
- the material used for bed and surrounding
- access points
Covering a DPC (damp proof course) or casting a floor slab
The damp-proof membrane is checked for thickness and sufficient overlap between new and existing damp-proof courses. Floor insulation may also be inspected at this stage.
Structural elements
We check the size, grade, centre, lateral restraint strapping and herringbone strutting of the floor joists and roof timbers. We also check the size of any steel beams and their bearing capacity.
Completion
This is the final inspection and checks that all works are complete, in accordance with the approved application and comply with the building regulations.
In addition, we will also check that any conditions have been cleared, certificates as required have been provided and any other detail that has been requested during the build by the surveyor has been submitted.
Records of site inspection will be retained for 15 years after completion. For larger residential or commercial projects, a record of the inspections may be kept on-site as a record for both parties.
Completion certificate
We will give you a completion certificate when the work is complete and we are satisfied that it complies. Keep the certificate in a safe place as you will need it if you want to sell the property.