Residential Building Surveys
Whether you are a first-time buyer or an experienced homeowner, 7H Chartered Surveyors specialises in identifying property defects to help you make informed decisions. Led by Alec Roxburgh, our team delivers clear, comprehensive reports to give you peace of mind.
Which Survey Do You Need?
Use this quick comparison to see what each survey includes and which one best fits your property. Still unsure? We are happy to advise.
Highlights visible defects and risks
Which Survey is Right for Your Property?
Here’s a quick guide to typical properties and the survey we’d usually recommend.
1930s Semi
Victorian Terrace with Extension
Most Flats and Maisonettes
Listed Buildings
Fixer-Upper / Project
Drone Roof & Chimney Surveys
Drone cameras are a quick and cost effective way to inspect the higher parts of buildings, roofs and chimneys. It is often difficult and potentially dangerous to access higher areas of buildings. In the past close inspection of these was only possible by long ladders or mobile platforms. Both of these have their risks, access problems, lead times and high associated costs: drone surveys are significantly lower cost. Theyare routinely included in a Level 3 Survey but can included at any level, undertaken for specific defects or general maintenance concerns. These reports include photos or video and accompanying analysis and recommendations.
Drone surveys are subject to weather conditions and sometimes local flying restrictions. We are happy to re-book if weather is a factor on the day. We are fully insured and licensed with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and compliant with CAA rules for commercial drone use.
Client Testimonials
Here's what our latest clients have to say about their experience with us.
Alec was very responsive throughout the whole process from quote to report. Professional and would not hesitate to use again
We used 7H to survey our planned purchase. We found the report to be comprehensive and insightful. Alec was happy to spend time after we had received the report to answer our questions. Very happy to recommend the company.
Thank you so very much for carrying out such a clear comprehensive survey for us. I particularly appreciate how you were able to ensure our questions about the building were answered and how well laid out the report was.
Really pleased I chose 7H for my house survey. Very efficient and friendly answering my questions beforehand, gave advice as to which survey would be best for me (in my case not recommending the most expensive one) and survey came back to me in the time specified and for a reasonable price.
In the process of buying a house, we needed a L2 survey completed and reached out to 7H after a recommendation from our friends. Very glad we did as the service was friendly, efficient and the report provided was clear and met our requirements. We were also suggested a survey relevant to our specific needs instead of proposing the most expensive option, which was much appreciated. Would not hesitate in using again or recommending to others.
Would definitely recommend Alec at 7H Surveyors. The Building Assesment report is very clear to understand and detailed. This is the second time we have used Alec and have found him very helpful and informative on both occasions.
Alec did a fantastic survey on the property we are buying.He was also very patient as the owner of a previous property we were buying decided to take it off the market whilst he was standing at the door waiting for entry to carry out the survey.We were very impressed with the comprehensive report we recieved and we highly recommend 7H.
Excellent thorough building surveyors. Clear, easy to read reports
FAQs
Find answers to common questions about our surveying services and how we can assist you.
A property is likely the most expensive purchase you’ll ever make — and even seemingly sound buildings can hide costly issues. A survey gives you an independent, professional view of the property’s condition, helping you avoid nasty surprises and often giving you grounds to renegotiate the price.
If you’re unsure which type of survey to choose, please read our complete guide here or get in touch - we’re happy to advise based on the age, type, and condition of the property you’re buying.
Most buyers need either a Level 2 or Level 3 survey. It depends on the age, condition, and complexity of the property. We’ve included a guide above, but if you’re still unsure, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to advise.
Level 1 surveys provide only a basic overview of a property’s condition and are rarely detailed enough for most buyers. At 7H, we focus on Level 2 and Level 3 surveys, which offer much more useful information — especially if you want to understand any potential issues before you buy.
Every survey is carried out personally by Alec Roxburgh, a Chartered Surveyor with over 30 years of experience. You’ll deal directly with him from start to finish.
Your survey will include a full inspection of visible and accessible parts of the property, with clear comments on condition, defects, and repair needs — plus photographs throughout to support the findings. You’ll receive a written report, not a checklist.
Site visits usually take between 2–4 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property. Reports are typically delivered within a few working days.
Yes — if anything in the report is unclear, or you need advice on what to do next, Alec is always happy to talk things through.
Ready to book or still unsure?
Send us the property link and we will recommend the right survey