Smith Heritage Surveyors

At Smith Heritage Surveyors, we specialise in providing comprehensive building surveys throughout Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorset, Bath, Somerset, Berkshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, London, and the surrounding areas.

The RICS Level 3 Building Survey is an extensive inspection and report on your property acquisition. It delivers a thorough analysis of the property's condition, pinpointing defects, structural concerns, damp issues, timber decay, and maintenance requirements. Alongside these findings, it offers practical advice on repairs, estimated costs, and long-term maintenance strategies.

All surveys are conducted by our highly qualified, RICS-accredited surveyors, who have considerable experience in surveying heritage homes, listed buildings, period properties, and non-standard constructions.

We offer Homebuyer surveys across Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorset, Somerset, Berkshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, and beyond.

The RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey evaluates the condition of a property and highlights any significant defects before the sale is finalised. Our experienced building surveyor will conduct a meticulous inspection of the property and provide a detailed report on its condition. This comprehensive information will empower you to make an informed decision before moving forward with your purchase.

At Smith Heritage Surveyors, we specialise in providing listed and historic building surveys across Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorset, Somerset, Berkshire, Surrey, Oxfordshire, and beyond.

A Listed Building Survey is the most comprehensive inspection available for properties of architectural or historical significance. Comparable in depth to a RICS Level 3 Building Survey, it offers an expert evaluation of your property’s condition, with a particular emphasis on the unique challenges and legal obligations associated with owning a listed property.

Our surveys are conducted by Building Conservation Accredited professionals, ensuring that each report is customised to meet the specific needs of period and heritage properties.

We take pride in collaborating with esteemed heritage organisations, including the Thatching Advisory Service, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB), Historic Houses, and the Listed Property Owners Club (LPOC). Remember, the LPOC recommends that all owners and prospective buyers of listed properties engage an experienced heritage surveyor—someone who works with listed buildings daily and comprehends the pitfalls, defects, and regulations involved.

With us, you can be assured that you will receive unrivalled expertise, conservation insight, and a survey designed to safeguard both your investment and the heritage of your home.

Damp & Timber Surveys deliver comprehensive reports detailing the causes of damp in your property and the solutions to rectify it. Employing state-of-the-art surveying technology, Smith Heritage Surveyors will evaluate the extent of the issue and determine its underlying cause.

Crucially, the report will outline the necessary remedial repairs to address the damp, along with cost estimates for the work required.

You may need a damp survey prior to purchasing if you or your surveyor have detected damp within the property, necessitating a specialist’s expertise and further investigation.

Alternatively, if you are a homeowner grappling with a long-standing damp issue or have recently observed changes that warrant a thorough assessment of the root cause, our targeted services can provide the insights you need.

Smith Heritage Surveyors are specialists in the Party Wall Act and its implications for your property. If you are planning any work near a neighbour’s boundary, it is crucial to adhere to all provisions of the Act to prevent any legal complications. Our chartered surveyors are here to guide you through every stage of the Party Wall process, ensuring complete compliance with all necessary regulations.

If you've received a Party Wall Notice from a neighbour, we can offer assistance in verifying that all legal aspects are accurate, safeguarding your property’s interests throughout the process.

Worried about building defects? Our expert team offers thorough building defect inspections and detailed reports for both residential and commercial properties. We identify issues such as cracks, leaks, and structural problems, and provide comprehensive reports to assist you in taking the essential steps to rectify them.

Get in touch with us today for a meticulous inspection and enjoy peace of mind.

Are you aware that the average new build home has 157 defects?

When you move into a new-build property, you enter a snagging period, typically lasting two years from the completion date. During this time, it is the responsibility of the property developer to address any faults in the construction of your home. To facilitate this, you must provide the developer with a snagging list, usually within the first two months, outlining all defects found in the new build.

Ensure that your new build property lives up to your expectations with our comprehensive snagging survey. Our expert team will meticulously identify any defects or incomplete work, delivering a detailed report along with tailored recommendations for remediation. We collaborate closely with you and the developer to guarantee that your property meets all necessary standards.

Contact us today for your peace of mind.

Get an aerial view of your property with our expert drone survey service. Our experienced surveyors use the latest technology to provide high-quality images and data, helping you to identify potential issues and make informed decisions.

So, if you have a roofing defect, water coming through your roof space, or you are worried about your chimney or any other issues that can only be seen from above, then this is the survey for you.

Our qualified drone pilots are also RICS Building Surveyors, meaning they understand common defects, building pathology, and construction technology, helping them provide an in-depth report and assessment of your building.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you with your property survey needs.

At Smith Heritage, we specialise in comprehensive and professional thatch roof inspections to ensure your roof remains safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Whether your thatch roof is a recent installation or has been in place for many years, our expert team is on hand to assess its condition, identify potential issues, and provide solutions to help extend the lifespan of your roof.

Additionally, if you are considering purchasing a thatched property, please feel free to contact us via telephone or email. We would be delighted to guide you through the process of acquiring a unique property. Remember, many thatched properties are listed, and we always recommend a full building survey prior to purchase.

Smith Heritage Surveyors were commissioned to carry out a RICS Level 3 Building Survey on this 19th Century property located in Salisbury, Wiltshire. The property features traditional construction, consisting of solid wall construction with bedded and pointed earth lime mortars. All our surveys adhere to a systematic approach aligned with RICS and RPSA survey standards, ensuring that no area is overlooked and that the surveys and reports provide clear assessments and outcomes.

Utilising a telescopic pole camera and a drone, we conducted an exhaustive survey of the roof, chimney, and rainwater goods. The use of this high-tech equipment revealed the necessity for extensive roof repairs that would not have been apparent from ground level alone. The roof, which is pitched and covered with slate tiles, exhibited several issues, including loose, slipped, and cracked tiles. Upon inspecting the roof space, it became clear that the underside of the roof was suffering from 'sick nail syndrome', indicating that a replacement would be needed in the near future. We were able to connect our clients with a local roofing company, whom we had recently partnered with, to provide a quote prior to exchange. The estimated cost for the new roof and scaffolding amounted to over £50,000.00— a considerable expense that would have been overlooked without the thorough building survey.

Utilising the findings from the survey, our client successfully negotiated a significant reduction in the property price. Once the sale was completed, we were invited to assist with the re-roofing work, ensuring that the project was executed to the highest standards.

We limit our bookings to one survey per day, allowing us to focus entirely on your property survey. As a result, we often dedicate double the time that other surveyors might spend at a property, meticulously identifying defects, investigating their causes, and assessing the extent of any damage. This comprehensive approach enables us to thoroughly understand and investigate issues during our inspections. We also encourage potential buyers to accompany us on the day of inspection, providing an opportunity to gain a full understanding of the identified defects and to raise any questions. We are committed to maintaining high standards and delivering a complete survey service to our clients.

Smith Heritage Surveyors were commissioned to conduct a RICS Level 3 Building Survey on a period property in Bath, Somerset, showcasing traditional construction typical of the city’s historic housing stock. The building was constructed from solid Bath stone, bedded and pointed using lime-based mortars, featuring traditional details that depend on breathability and effective rainwater management. All our surveys adhere to a systematic approach in accordance with RICS and RPSA survey standards, ensuring that no area is overlooked and our reports are clear, balanced, and practical.

Utilising a drone, we carried out a comprehensive inspection of the roof coverings, chimney stacks, parapet gutters, and rainwater goods. This high-level inspection is particularly vital in Bath, where Georgian terraces typically include parapets, concealed gutters, lead-lined valleys, and intricate drainage systems that can be challenging to assess from ground level. The survey uncovered defects that would not have been visible from a mere visual inspection, including concerns around high-level junctions, flashings, and rainwater discharge points.

The roof was pitched and of traditional design, displaying defects consistent with its age, such as slipped or fractured coverings and localised deterioration of leadwork and abutments. We also identified deficiencies in the rainwater goods, including misalignments and poor falls, which heighten the risk of overflow. In Bath, this is a common cause of internal damp-related issues, as overflowing gutters and parapet gutters can saturate the upper wall fabric and allow moisture to seep through the building.

Externally, we assessed the condition of the Bath stone ashlar, closely examining weathering, previous repairs, and pointing. Bath stone is a relatively soft limestone, making it particularly susceptible to damage where it has been “patched” with hard cement mortars or unsuitable impermeable coatings. The survey noted instances where previous repairs appeared incompatible, potentially trapping moisture and accelerating decay of the surrounding stone. We provided clear recommendations on how future repairs should be approached sympathetically, prioritising compatible materials and ensuring the wall fabric can dry effectively.

Internally, we inspected for signs of damp, condensation, and the effects of any alterations. Common issues in Bath properties often include moisture trapped behind modern finishes, reduced ventilation following upgrades, and cold bridging in solid walls. Our report clarified where the building seemed to be performing as expected for its age and construction, and where further investigation or targeted remedial works would be advisable. Particular focus was given to vulnerable areas such as chimney breasts, party walls, window reveals, and high-level corners, where moisture ingress or condensation may be first detected.

We never schedule more than one survey per day to ensure our absolute focus on your inspection. This allows us the time to thoroughly investigate defects, identify underlying causes, and provide clients with practical guidance that supports informed decision-making. We also encourage purchasers to visit the property with us, whenever feasible, to gain a clear understanding of the building’s condition and the priorities for repair and maintenance.

If you are purchasing a period or traditional property and require a RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Bath, we would be delighted to assist you.

Smith Heritage Surveyors conducted a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey on a classic 1950s chalet-style property in Wiltshire. We provided a comprehensive report presented in a straightforward format, designed to be easily understood by individuals without a property background.

The survey identified several issues, including condensation and penetrating damp affecting the ground floor of the property. By utilising our high-level camera, we discovered that the guttering had been improperly installed. We carried out a rain test by spraying the roof with a hose, simulating rainfall. This approach allowed us to pinpoint the malfunctioning areas of the rainwater system and provide cost estimates for necessary remedial work.

Our client was delighted with the results and proceeded to purchase the property with complete confidence.

All information and testing were conducted in the presence of the client as part of our standard walk-around service. We believe that the walk-around, which occurs at the conclusion of our surveys, is invaluable and educational. It enables us to promptly share our findings, demonstrate the defects on-site, and explain the required actions along with potential costs.

We were delighted to be commissioned to conduct an inspection of this 15th Century Farmhouse in Devon, which has previously been home to notable figures such as Anne Boleyn.

Our tailored, thorough, and comprehensive survey enabled us to identify a myriad of aspects regarding the building, ensuring our client had a detailed understanding before moving forward with the purchase. The property, which was acquired by the current owners in 2015, had undergone significant renovations and modifications. Unfortunately, these changes were executed without the necessary planning permission and did not align with the architectural style and historical significance of the building.

The report provided to our client outlined just over £1,000,000.00 worth of essential work required to restore the property to a satisfactory condition. Understandably, the client was not willing to undertake the extensive work and potential legal complications, leading them to withdraw from the purchase.

When we were commissioned to conduct a Listed Survey on a stunning Grade II* listed house on the outskirts of Windsor, we recognised that we were engaging with a property steeped in history yet fraught with potential challenges. Dating back to the early 18th century, the house boasted exquisite sash windows, intricate cornicing, and a traditional brick façade. However, like many historic buildings, it presented a variety of structural and maintenance issues that warranted meticulous evaluation.

During our survey, one of the primary concerns we identified was damp. The basement and sections of the ground floor exhibited clear signs of penetrating damp, with moisture damage impacting several of the original timber joists. A closer inspection unveiled areas of timber decay, likely attributable to prolonged exposure to damp conditions. We also discovered evidence of beetle infestation in the roof timbers, necessitating further analysis to ascertain the full extent of the issue.

The roof itself presented another area of concern. Many of the original slate tiles were either missing or displaced, rendering parts of the structure susceptible to water ingress. Surrounding the chimney, we observed that the lead flashing had deteriorated significantly, allowing moisture to seep into the brickwork. Of greater concern was the slight structural movement in one of the chimneys, suggesting previous settlement that required reinforcement to avert further deterioration.

Every building has a narrative to share, but few are as fascinating as a medieval cruck frame home. When we were commissioned to conduct a listed building survey on a 15th-century timber-framed property, we recognised that it would be a project rich in both challenges and rewards. The house, nestled in a tranquil village, has stood for centuries, but time and the elements have exacted a toll—most notably on its failing roof.

From the moment we arrived, the exquisite craftsmanship of the building was apparent. The grand oak cruck beams, gracefully arching from floor to roof, have supported the structure for over 500 years. However, as we explored the house, it became clear that the roof, once its crowning feature, is now its biggest weakness. The thatch is deteriorating, with extensive water ingress, and the structural timbers beneath have endured years of damp and insect damage.

One of the most urgent concerns was the condition of the roof’s supporting framework. Some of the primary timbers have rotted where they connect with the masonry walls, jeopardising their capacity to support weight. In certain areas, the natural bowing of the beams has been exacerbated by the burden of a failing roof covering. The property has experienced various patchwork repairs over the centuries, but it is evident that a more robust intervention is now crucial.

The majority of our damp-related enquiries originate from London, and in November last year, we were commissioned to assess a large Victorian terrace in Battersea.

We were contacted by a homeowner who had been informed by her surveyor that there was significant damp throughout her property and that further inspection by a damp specialist was necessary. Following an extensive telephone conversation and a review of the previous survey findings, we conducted a comprehensive damp and timber survey of the property.

Smith Heritage Surveyors performed a detailed Damp & Timber Survey to identify the underlying causes of the damp issue and to provide expert advice on the necessary remedial works.

A double application of our expert chemical injected damp proof course! If it doesn't work the first time, why not give it another go?

Consider the entire picture – Ground levels revealing between 3 to 4 bricks all around your property. Damp Proof Course (DPC) – A double layer of slate, still intact, exhibiting no signs of deterioration. The original lime and breathable mortar remains sound and in situ. Was there ever any dampness to begin with?

If you request a salesman to inspect your premises, you'll find that you will only need exactly what they're offering. There's no such thing as a free lunch; if the surveys are complimentary, you can be certain that the solution will come at a hefty price. Chemical damp proofing is often a ruse; it is ill-suited for traditionally constructed properties and may inadvertently cause damp issues through poor methods that create cold spots and allow water to infiltrate.

We are here to provide you with proper advice, offering professional and sympathetic solutions that won't break the bank.

Our team was engaged to act as party wall surveyors for a dispute between two neighboring residential property owners. The argument started when an owner wanted to do renovations that involved digging near the property line.

The second owner, who had a shared wall with the first owner, worried about their property getting damaged during the digging. They were also concerned about noise, dust, and disruption that could be caused during the works.

Our skilled surveyors helped both parties communicate and negotiate, resulting in an agreement that satisfied their concerns. We provided clear instructions on the rules of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Our goal was to ensure that both parties understood their rights and duties under the law.

During a routine residential property survey, our team detected signs of foundation movement in a property located in a suburban area. Our expert surveyor identified cracking in the foundation and exterior walls, and noted that the floors appeared uneven. The client was immediately notified of our findings and provided with a detailed report outlining the extent of the damage.

Upon further investigation, we discovered that the foundation movement was likely caused by the soil beneath the property expanding and contracting due to seasonal changes. We recommended that the client engage a foundation specialist to carry out repairs and prevent further damage.

Our team continued to monitor the property for several months after the initial survey, to ensure that the recommended repairs were effective in stabilizing the foundation. The client was pleased with the detailed report and expert advice provided by our team, and appreciated our ongoing support throughout the repair process.

Comprehensive Snagging Survey Identifies Defects in Newly Built Properties

Our dedicated team was commissioned to conduct a snagging survey on a newly built residential property situated in a suburban area. Our experienced surveyor identified several defects, including incomplete or substandard finishes, missing or damaged fixtures, as well as issues with the electrical and plumbing systems.

We provided the client with an in-depth report, clearly outlining all the issues discovered during the survey. We recommended that the developer rectify these issues prior to the client assuming ownership of the property. Our team also offered to perform a follow-up inspection to ensure that all defects were addressed appropriately.

The developer successfully resolved all defects highlighted in our report, and we conducted a follow-up inspection to confirm that the remedial work was completed to a high standard. The client expressed satisfaction with our meticulous and professional approach, appreciating the peace of mind that came with knowing their new home was free from defects.

Drone Survey Uncovers Hidden Roof Damage in Residential Property

Our expert team was commissioned to conduct a drone survey on a residential property situated in a picturesque rural setting. The client had observed signs of water damage on the interior ceiling and was apprehensive about potential issues with the roof.

Using state-of-the-art drones equipped with high-resolution cameras, our skilled surveyors meticulously captured detailed images of the property's roof. The survey revealed significant damage to the roof tiles and guttering that was not visible from the ground level.

We delivered a thorough report to the client, which included the high-quality images obtained during the survey, along with actionable recommendations for remediation. This report enabled the client to collaborate effectively with a roofing contractor to undertake the essential repairs.

Thanks to our drone survey, the client was able to detect the concealed damage to their roof before it led to more severe problems, such as leaks or further water damage. The survey empowered the client to take proactive measures and make well-informed decisions regarding the necessary repairs.

The Smith Heritage team was commissioned to carry out an inspection of a Grade II listed property in Hampshire, as part of a property acquisition by a developer.