Condition Survey Checklist

Condition Survey Checklist

Require a condition survey for your commercial property? At Commercial Building Surveyors we’ve put together an in-depth condition survey checklist covering all 15 stages of the commercial surveying process.

When it comes to carrying our a condition survey, or schedule of condition, there is a typical approach that ensures the condition report is fully comprehensive and an accurate reflection of the property’s current condition.

If you need any further information about condition surveys or this condition survey checklist, then just drop us an email and we’ll be happy to help.

Condition Survey Checklist (15 Stages)

1. Obtain a copy of the draft lease or heads of terms – this will provide good guidance on the extent of the parties ownership and repair liability.

2. Do a desktop assessment – obtain any plans, and other associated documentation which will be useful to undertaking the survey. If not available then undertake an search engine review to look at the size and orientation etc. of the building.

3. Arrange the site inspection – get agreement of the occupier, and other relevant parties. Arrange for any access equipment and for other consultants as required.

4. Organise your equipment – make sure you have all the equipment you need ready, a camera is a must (spare battery may be required), telescopic ladder, personal protective equipment, binoculars, dictaphone, tape measure, torch etc.

5. Arrive on the day – make sure to leave plenty of time to get to site and look to arrive at the pre-agreed time.

6. Site inductions – once you arrive you will need to sign-in with the occupier, undertake any necessary site induction. If the property is vacant then be sure to notify someone so they know you have arrived safely.

7. Initial overview – it is useful to undertake a brief walkaround / overview of the building so you can get an good understanding of the layout, size, complexity and condition etc.

8. Undertake survey – complete the survey in a methodical manner. Decide if you want to start internally or externally and go through each component one after the other to ensure you record all elements. Take a photograph of the item and record the condition by hand or by a dictaphone.

9. Accurately photograph all items –make sure you record all items. My personal preference is to take on the building by breaking down the building into sizeable chunks. For an average building and example is as follows:

a.Take a photograph of the whole elevation
b.Take a number of photographs of the elevation to show closer detail
c. Take photographs of specific defects etc.

10. Accurately record details –use the same approach as the above but use this to record the construction and additional details of the defects identified. Take measurements of cracks, count the number of courses that these may go through, count numbers of missing fixings, measure areas of discolored paintwork etc. 

11. Collate information – when you get back to the office, collate all your notes and photographs etc. to reflect on your findings. 

12. Draft the report – use the relevant template to draft the report and ensure that all sections are completed in accordance with the findings. Inputting descriptions and photographs where relevant.

13. QA check – ensure a senior colleague checks the report to ensure accuracy. Make any revisions as discussed. 

14. Issue the report – send a copy of the report to the instructing party in electronic of hardcopy format depending on the requirements.

15. Signature/approval –where required, get the relevant stakeholders to sign and countersign a copy of the document. 

At Commercial Building Surveyors, we offer condition surveys in the following locations: Condition Survey Bristol, Condition Survey London, Condition Survey Manchester, Condition Survey Cardiff