What Is The Role Of A Building Surveyor
Did you know that a building surveyor is someone trained to understand and interpret building law? Their role is significant and can span both residential and commercial properties.
Building surveyors provide professional advice on both the design and construction of new property as well as the restoration of existing ones. Whilst ensuring all plans are compliant with the appropriate regulations they are also responsible for the safety of the building.
Typical work activities of a building surveyor
The work undertaken by a building surveyor can be very diverse and is rarely routine given the wide range of area they can be involved in.
Experts in construction standards, they interact with architects, engineers and builders to ensure that the techniques followed, materials used and overall design ticks all the legal boxes.
Their tasks can include:
- Deal with planning applications
- Determine the condition of existing buildings with a view to identifying defects or areas for repair
- Carry out inspections of work being undertaken
- Monitor the overall environmental impact of a construction including energy efficiency ratings
- Ensure building designs meet the needs of those with disabilities
- Oversee the health and safety aspects of a property
A building surveyor inspects the design and construction process from the start including issuing building permits right through to completion; their role is critical.
Building surveyors must have insurance
A building surveyor is only legally allowed to practice if they are covered by the required insurance.
Does the owner of the building interact with the surveyor?
There are many instances when the owner of a building being constructed does directly engage with the building surveyor however typically the builder or architect does this.
Whilst a building surveyor can be called upon to perform a wide range of roles, overall it is clear that they are responsible for making sure that all buildings are safe, as energy efficient as possible and appropriately designed for those in need.
Their knowledge of legislation and advice provided can significantly influence the design of a building.
Contact Action Property Inspections today for more information on a building surveyor. They are the experts ready to answer your questions.