You need a full structural survey. This should include:
- Checking the structural condition of the premises.
- Confirming that they comply with building regulations and health and safety regulations.
- Assessing whether any alterations will be needed to make the premises accessible for disabled people.
- Identifying any dangerous materials (inlcuding asbestos) which may need replacing or making safe.
- Estimating the costs of current and future repairs.
The survey will also include a valuation which can be a useful negotiating tool.
Discuss your requirements with the surveyor, and agree in writing what the survey will cover. In some cases, the surveyor may also recommend a specialist survey: for example, if the premises include lifts or air conditioning.
If you will be mortgaging the premises, check that the survey will be acceptable to your bank. Do not rely on a survey or valuation carried out for the bank. As you are not the surveyor's client, you will not usually have any claim against the surveyor if the survey fails to uncover faults.
