Commercial Pre-Acquisition Surveys

Before you buy or lease a commercial property, it is important to understand its condition and what it could cost you. We provide pre-acquisition surveys for commercial landlords, tenants and companies acquiring property for investment, leasing or their own occupation.

For Buyers

A pre-acquisition survey sets out the condition of the building, identifies defects and their likely causes, and gives guidance on the cost of repairs. This allows you to negotiate on price, plan future expenditure and raise any points with your solicitor before completion.

For Tenants

Most commercial leases place some or all of the repairing liability on the tenant, and under a full repairing lease that can include putting right defects that existed before you moved in. A survey before you sign tells you what you are taking on. Where there is existing disrepair, we can prepare a schedule of condition to be attached to the lease, limiting your liability at the end of the term.

What the Survey Covers

The scope is agreed with you at the outset and depends on the property and your plans. It typically includes:

the structure, roof coverings, external walls, windows and doors
internal finishes and fittings
visible condition of building services, with specialist testing recommended where needed
compliance matters to raise with your advisers
an assessment of repairs, with priorities and indicative costs

Residential Purchases

If you are buying a house or flat, see our RICS Home Surveys.