INDEPENDENT ARTICLES, CLEAR INSIGHTS, STRAIGHTFORWARD ADVICE FOR INFORMED PROPERTY DECISIONS.

A snagging list covers defects, unfinished items, and workmanship issues in a property—most commonly a new-build, but also after refurbishments, extensions, or conversions. The aim is to document everything that needs putting right, clearly and methodically, so the...

Several things can stop (or seriously delay) freeholder consent for a Licence for Alterations — and most of them fall into one of four buckets: Your lease doesn’t permit the works (or restricts them heavily) The proposal creates unmanaged risk (structure, fire, water...

A Level 3 Survey (often called a Building Survey) is the most detailed pre-purchase survey option for residential property. You can expect it to give you a thorough, practical understanding of the building, with clear explanations of defects, their likely causes...

“Snags” are the defects, incomplete items, and workmanship issues that crop up in a property—most commonly in new builds, but also after conversions, refurbishments, extensions and loft conversions. Some are minor cosmetics; others are functional problems or details...

“Typical Licence for Alterations works” are the kinds of changes a leaseholder (or commercial tenant) commonly wants to make, but cannot legally proceed with under the lease without the landlord/freeholder’s written consent. These works are usually controlled because...

A Level 2 Survey (typically the RICS Home Survey – Level 2) is designed to give you a professional, objective overview of a property’s condition through a more extensive visual inspection—but it has clear boundaries. Understanding those boundaries helps you interpret...

The Licence for Alterations procedure is the formal process a leaseholder (or commercial tenant) follows to obtain the landlord/freeholder’s written permission to carry out works that are restricted by the lease. While the exact steps vary between landlords and...

A Level 2 Survey uses a simple set of condition ratings to help you quickly understand what needs attention, how urgent it is, and what you should do next. The ratings are designed to turn a long technical report into a clear, prioritised action plan—so you can decide...

A Level 3 Survey (often referred to as a Building Survey) isn’t just “a visit and a report”. Done properly, it delivers a clear set of practical outputs that help you make a confident buying decision, plan repairs, and manage risk before you become legally committed....