It is very likely that any building survey report will contain the advice to the client to get a further investigation.

However, some surveyors have been seen to almost rely on this rather than providing the advice themselves.   From the client point-of-view this is not helpful and it can especially be seen as a way of trying to avoid liability.

The RICS Home Survey Standard 2019 provides a benchmark against which surveys are to be judged.   This applies to residential surveys, but the principle is equally valid for commercial and other non-residential property.

Paragraph 4.9 of the Home Survey Standard 2019 provides clear reference to this point.

“The RICS member should exercise professional judgement and must not call for further investigations only to cover him or herself against future liabilities.”

Appendix A2 and A3 also refers to further investigations and in the case of a Level 3 it says..:

“… referrals should be the exception rather than the rule.  A Level 3 report should aim to provide the client with all the information they need to make a decision”.

This Lunchtime CPD session will explore this topic and help you identify situations when a further investigation is actually required, and when you can help the client by providing the advice yourself.