Mason & Oak Surveyors

Building surveying and heritage consultancy in Lancashire

Mason & Oak Surveyors Ltd is an independent firm of building and heritage surveyors. Its work focuses on period and traditionally constructed properties, with particular emphasis on Level 2 and Level 3 surveys and practical defect diagnosis. The company operates across Lancashire and the North West of England.

Its approach is based on the belief that buying a home is one of the largest financial commitments a person will make, so the advice is aimed at helping clients understand the true condition of the property before proceeding with the purchase. Reports are written in plain English and focus on the most relevant issues: structural movement, dampness, roof coverings, defects, maintenance needs and areas requiring further investigation.

A service tailored to each property

Every instruction is approached as a bespoke professional service rather than a standardised tick-box exercise. The firm maintains that no two properties or clients are the same, and it tailors the scope of work to the age, construction type, condition and complexity of the building, as well as the specific concerns and requirements of the purchaser.

Before formalising the instruction, clients can discuss the property's characteristics, any known defects, future plans for the building and the level of detail required. This ensures the survey is suited both to the property and to the client's objectives.

Level 2 and Level 3 surveys

The Level 2 survey is designed for conventional properties of traditional construction that appear to be in reasonable condition. It provides an overview of the property's condition and highlights significant defects, urgent repairs, maintenance needs and areas requiring further investigation. The report is written in clear language to support decision-making before proceeding with the purchase. Before the instruction, a consultation is held about the property, its age, construction type and any concerns already identified by the client, so that the inspection and report focus on what matters most. Where the property is of historic interest, the firm can put the client in touch with heritage consultants.

The Level 3 survey is a comprehensive, detailed inspection suitable for older properties, altered or extended buildings, non-standard construction or properties showing signs of defect or deterioration. It examines the structure, construction and condition of the property in depth, and includes possible causes of defects, repair considerations, maintenance priorities and potential risks associated with the property. Every Level 3 instruction begins with a detailed pre-survey consultation to understand the client's intentions for the property, planned alterations, known concerns and overall expectations, allowing the inspection to be tailored to each case rather than applying a generic approach.

Specialisation in historic buildings

The firm offers specialist services for historic, traditional and character properties, including stone-built dwellings and period homes constructed using traditional materials and methods. Inspecting a historic building requires a different approach from that used for modern structures: traditional construction behaves uniquely, and inappropriate repairs or alterations can lead to deterioration over time.

Heritage consultants pay particular attention to factors such as moisture movement, ventilation, the integrity of historic fabric, previous alterations and the compatibility of repair materials. This work is highly bespoke and begins with an in-depth consultation before the inspection, covering the client's concerns, future plans for the building and the specific nature of the property, so that the survey reflects both the complexity of the construction and the needs of the purchaser.

Timescales, follow-up and working values

All reports are delivered within four working days of the inspection. In addition, clients receive a follow-up call on the day of the survey to discuss initial findings, relevant concerns and immediate considerations before the written report is issued. The firm remains available for support and advice after the report is delivered, so clients can raise further questions and approach the purchase process with greater clarity.

The company sums up its way of working in three principles: thoroughness in the inspection of every property, straightforward advice with clear explanations and realistic recommendations, and independence, as its conclusions are based solely on the condition of the property and what is best for the client.

Location and contact

Phone: 03330 540 086 · Email: info@masonandoak.co.uk