Portfolios Archive - David Simmonds Building Solutions

West Heath Birmingham property Survey by David Simmonds Surveyor

West Heath – Birmingham

West Heath – Birmingham Survey

Surveying this 2011 property for Ron and Janet was a pleasure in West Heath, Birmingham.

Carefully and with my knowledge of all things structural I begin with looking for all the signs of potential problems with the building. Although on this occasion not a full structural survey, my report does mention this element and my visual views on the subject as I look from the front and then the rear of the property for cracks in the mortar and other signs of a structural defect, only a knowledgeable surveyor would pick up on.

Inside I head straight for the loft so I can have a good look at the roof felt and rafters and all things loft space, I carry my own access equipment, so there’s no reason not to have a look as I scan the whole loft area for tell tail signs of defects and potential future issues.

After this, I survey the rest of the property meticulously looking for issues with the building’s fabric makeup and defects and of course making notes and praising the good things I find.

I cover all aspects of the house including utility supplies and write a short report on the grounds also.

This property was originally a Persimmons Homes, and I was glad to report that it was in good condition for its age.

I use a colour coded traffic light system in the report red = being a more serious defect to green = all is well.

I wish Ron and Janet many years happiness in their new home.

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Condition Survey on house

Condition Survey

Condition Survey

In our latest project with a domestic property, we surveyed to a level 3 in depth survey of this old parsonage for our client.

History revealed many interesting and notable survey conditions, as we meticulously worked our way around and through the property, we looked and checked all aspects of the building using our building pathology expertise in writing a comprehensive report for our client.

We inspect everything from the chimneys and roof, down to the base wall construction then move inside for a careful visual survey. If requested, we can conduct a forensic survey if we deem that this may be necessary whilst we work through the property. We take many photographs, as pictures can speak a thousand words.

We produce your condition survey within a reasonable time, to help expedite things for you within your project goal timeline, we understand the frustrations of waiting for things to happen, especially if you are the potential new buyer or want to start your refurbishment program of works as soon as possible.

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David Simmonds Surveying Corporate Work

Corporate Surveying

Corporate Surveying

We are currently focusing on a large Local Authority Project, using our in depth expertise and surveying experience helping move things forward for their long term regeneration programme.

As expert Corporate Surveyors we meticulously enter details of their buildings and housing stock conditions on data sheets for the organisation, flagging up any visual disrepair or structural issues, so they have the information to maintain and manage the properties, whilst also them having access to up to date reliable details for insurance purposes as well as other aspects involving the properties.

A Good knowledgeable Corporate Survey allows for informed decision making and can potentially save an organisation financial burdens that are unnecessary. When a repair programme is instigated at an early stage the cost for this far out ways long term unmanaged dilapidation issues arising.

Disclaimer On Tower Blocks and Multiple Occupancy Properties:

Whilst we survey building conditions and any structural aspects that we can see visually on a HRRB our fire risk survey is FRA V4, often the inspection also involves HHSRS.

We can appoint a Fire Risk Officer/Specialist to attend the site for a separate survey assessment and further investigations. In and obvious fire risk situation such as communal doors being blocked or an item blocking fire/exits/vandalised apparatus we will report these matters to the relevant parties involved. Where appropriate in any HRRB we will appoint or recommend a structural engineer if we see a potential issue involving the buildings fabric/material make up, but expressly state we are not responsible for any action needed to resolve any subsequent issues.

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Flyford Flavel House Renovation

Flyford Flavel

Flyford Flavel

We Project Managed this originally 1950’s house set back off the road. From the beginning we helped the client with design and feasibility, taking many of their ideas and implementing them in a practical way to achieve their vision and desires. We incorporated CDM (Construction Design Management) and Operated continuous Project Management throughout engaging and managing Trusted Tradesmen to directly do the work. The building was not re configured in size and shape, but each room was cleverly converted with a large modern kitchen, bedrooms and bathrooms installed.

What brings this house into the modern 20^th Century era, is the windows and front door design, bifold doors and chalk white spray rendering. Our management included Engineering and Specific Client Representation in Landscape Design and Building Solutions.

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The Almonry restoration in Worcestershire rear view

The Almonry

The Almonry

This was a complex project from the start and involved us dealing with all things with planning and engineering solutions. We devised a repair plan after completing a Level 3 in depth Building Condition Survey. The repair plan was designed and formulated ready for the Listed Building Consent application, and also based on the budget restrictions that the client had. Once the Listed Building Consent application was approved we managed specialist tradesmen to repair the building, whilst complying to heritage repair methods, and South Worcestershire Development Plans (Articles 6,21,24)

This Iconic building near the Abbey once part of the abbey grounds, with its original natural stone fireplaces, associated with possibly being once part of the Abbey allowed us to excel in our consultation, practical surveying and project management skills.

Managing this difficult project with our continuous surveying and engineering capabilities involved, brought out the passion we have for Condition Surveys and Management of the built environment and historic interests.

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