Property Structural Inspections
Before a client purchases a property and invests a considerable amount of money, it is strongly recommended that a “Property inspection” be a carried out by a suitably qualified indemnified Architect or Engineer. If a lending institution is involved they will insist to their client to have this inspection carried out before release of funds.
Here at Planning & Development Services, Carlow we have considerable experience in conducting these surveys, with the founding member of the firm and director having 47 years experience specialising in this particular service of the business,. The survey is thorough and detailed with all necessary items inspected, from structural integrity, ventilation, dampness levels in walls & floors, accessibility, fire escape measures, areas of possible health hazard, electrical, plumbing and heating, site services, flooring and insulation to mention just a few.
After we conduct our survey we compile a report for the property based upon our survey findings and provide our client our view and recommendations of the property.
In addition if the property is in need of remedial works to bring it into compliance with modern living and use standards we provide a costing schedule for the envisage remedial works for the client.
Snagging
This is the process of inspecting a newly finished property and is the final touch that your property investment requires.
It’s also vital to do this ultimate “once over” check to spot any imperfections or unfinished items in the property that will need addressing.
The snagging process generates a “Snag List” which is basically an inventory of imperfections and items that need your builder’s attention. These items are then listed and sent to you, your legal advisor and your builder. If there is a legal requirement to fix these items before title deed, Planning & Development Services will return within the stipulated period to ensure these have been fixed.
There is a legal component to this in many developments. If a property is not inspected within the 30 day period it is legally sold “As is”. This means any defects will not be corrected by the builder as he will attribute them to wear and tear by the owners. To avoid this it is always wise to hire a professional team to carry out the inspection. You may think you have an eye for detail, but Planning & Development Services has years of experience in looking for the very defects that you may miss. We will not be distracted by enthusiastic builders or Real Estate agents attempting to divert your attention from what really matters.
Damage Reports
Damage reports on properties can be prepared and are necessary when properties have being damaged as a result of fire, flood, or structural deficiencies.
Our reports are detailed and can be used by our clients or their legal representatives to pursue insurance companies etc.
Valuations
Planning & Development Services are accredited by and are affiliated members of the M.I.P.A.V (Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valuers) and we provide a full residential and commercial valuation service and are on the panel for all major banks and building societies.
Valuations on properties are commonly associated with mortgages and the relevant lending institutes whom instruct these valuations to be carried out to verify the properties current market value in the open selling market, re-instatements costs and any other issues that are relevant to the property.
We carry out these surveys of the property promptly and efficiently without inconvenience to our client and prepare all necessary documentation for the lending institute.
Contract Tendering Documents
Upon entering into an agreement with a Building Contractor to build your property it is advisable to have a professional and legal building agreement contract drawn up and signed by both parties.
In addition to the legal contract document a detailed construction works specification document should be prepared to accompany such contract agreements.
We at Planning & Development Services provide this specialised service whereby we inspect all relevant construction plans and then proceed to draw up a detailed specification document where the programme for construction works are scheduled, including:
- Obligations & Duties of both Builder & Employer
- Health & Safety Requirements
- Time Duration for Construction Works
- Building Material Specification of all Items (as consulted with client)
A professional legal binding contract is then drafted to be agreed and signed by both parties.
Quantity Surveying & Estimates
Here at Planning & Development Services we focus on providing accurate and relevant cost control advice for all projects.
Important issues to be considered in preparing estimates are contingency plans, option appraisals and financial planning with the aim to creating realistic budgets.
Upon receiving all relevant plans and documents and after a consultation with the client we will then be in a position to compile material list and bill of estimates for the development.