S W Bedford Surveying

Independent building surveys in Warwick and the Midlands

S W Bedford Surveying is an independent surveying practice based in the historic market town of Warwick. The surveyor travels extensively around the Midlands and undertakes surveys of all types of buildings, although the main area of expertise is heritage properties. This includes many listed buildings as well as Victorian and Edwardian buildings, which the surveyor notes are largely built of similar traditional materials.

The practice offers only the most detailed level of pre-purchase survey, commonly referred to as a building survey or level 3 survey. This allows time to fully investigate all aspects of the property before and during the site inspection, and to produce a fully detailed report. The surveyor states that they make themselves available by phone or video call to discuss any matters arising both before and after the survey, on multiple occasions if necessary.

Specialisation in historic and traditional construction

The surveyor reports extensive experience with all types of traditional and historic construction materials, including timber-framed construction, mud (cobb) or stone walls and thatched roofs. The website notes that the examples of heritage properties previously surveyed are not listed buildings.

What the site survey includes

• A high-level inspection of the roofs, chimneys and rainwater goods using a telescopic pole camera or drone.
• Thermal imaging to identify any damp, hidden moisture or thermally inefficient areas of the property.
• An inspection of any accessible parts of the underground drainage system, with an approximate layout diagram where possible.

Contents of the survey report

The report covers an assessment of the various construction forms that exist at the property and how the building has evolved over time, noting that many defects are related to poorly considered alteration. It provides information about current defects, guidance on the construction and durability of the property, and the potential for future defects. Recommendations are given regarding any repair or ongoing maintenance requirements, together with the consequences of inaction. The report also details any health and safety risks and whether any part of the property is in a dangerous condition.

Advice for the client's legal adviser is included, covering permissions for any alterations, boundaries and potential party wall issues. The report contains dozens of diagrams and labelled photographs, annotated where necessary, to provide clarity. The energy efficiency of the building and its services is reviewed, with recommendations for improvement without compromising the building.

Energy efficiency and insulation concerns

The surveyor highlights that in recent years a growing number of issues are being caused by poorly considered insulation work. While it is understandable that property owners wish to improve the energy efficiency of old buildings, if the correct methodologies are not followed this can lead to current or future defects, particularly related to dampness, which can be expensive and invasive to rectify.

Contact and location

The practice is based at 30 Guy Street, Warwick, Warwickshire, CV34 4LN. The surveyor can be contacted by telephone on 07595 848070 or through the contact form on the website. For a quote, the address of the property should be included.