Glossary of Terms

Dawson Surveyors helps you to understand some of the more complex terms used within the property industry in our useful Glossary, as listed below.

Building surveys
A building survey is an extremely thorough survey that describes each element of the property – roofs, walls etc. Your chartered surveyor will note anything emerging from the inspection that gives cause for concern and suggest if further investigation is needed.

RICS home buyers report
A home buyer survey is a more general report that provides a professional opinion on the current state of a property. The aim of this report is to provide potential buyers with enough information to be able to make an informed decision as to whether to continue with the purchase.

Specialist in party wall matters
We have specialists in The Party Wall (etc.) 1996 Act which affects property nationwide. We can issue the relevant notices, prepare schedules and awards, and publish under the Act.

Property design & planning
We can offer a comprehensive & original approach to interior and exterior design. For individual or commercial requirements in the context of planning or refurbishment of new or existing buildings.

Project & construction management
As Construction Managers we offer building maintenance and administration, control projects, advise and guide in respect of building law, regulations, contract administration from concept to final account allowing for a comprehensive range of technical information and advice.

Legal support
We have a long-standing association with the countries leading solicitor’s practices, who have specialist knowledge and expertise in the construction industry. Security advice.

Disability discrimination act
Identify the key physical barriers, which currently make it impossible or unreasonably difficult for disabled people to effectively access property.
Identify the barriers which disabled people themselves consider to be most in need of addressing. Recommend strategies for compliance at different levels. Provide an estimate of the likely cost of compliance in the case of the NHS from Oct 99 to 2004.

Condition reports
A Schedule of Condition Report involves the examination and production of a written and photographic record as to existing condition of a building prior to a purchase, renting or change of ownership. It details any damage which is already present as well as areas likely to give problems in the future.

Structural surveys
Structural reports provide a more detail investigation with respect to a specific structural issues, for example large cracks in walls, possible subsidence and so on. Following the investigation a detail report of the findings and recommendations will be produced.

Valuation
As Valuers we assess what the interest in property and land is worth at a given time. This could be in connection with a sale, letting, leasing, investment, mortgage, rating, insurance, compensation, taxation or probate.

Dilapidation surveys
Schedules of Dilapidation Reports are normally commissioned by either landlord or tenant to protect their interests.

Property construction & standards
As Construction Managers we offer building maintenance and administration, control projects, advise and guide in respect of building law, regulations, contract administration from concept to final account allowing for a comprehensive range of technical information and advice.

Specific property laws
Property laws vary from country to country. And even within the specific region of a country. Dawson & Associates can determine your specific, legal entitlements prior to a purchase overseas or following.

Land rights
When purchasing an independent property overseas you should be aware of your rights as a property owner. This includes the entitlements on the land surrounding and specific to your property.

Office, Factory, Whole estates, Commerical complexes, Lease & Purchase Surveys
Having been in professional practice since 1970, Dawson & Associates are fully experienced in all types of surveys for a full variety of residential or commercial requirements. We are able to inform and advise on your specific requirements. Feel free to call for more details at any time.

New Build Design, Conversions, Change of use, Refurbishments, Maintenance works & Disabled adaptations
Our RICS accredited property expertise means that we can offer a comprehensive & original approach to interior and exterior design. For individual or commercial requirements in the context of planning or refurbishment of new or existing buildings.