Building Surveyors Practice regulated by the RICS
Purchasing your home is probably the biggest outlay you are ever going to make; therefore, it is vitally important that you are fully aware of the property’s overall condition. A comprehensive survey of the property in Bath or Bristol can help uncover any work that may need to be carried out to the property before you buy it. There are various types of survey that can be carried out, the survey you will require depends on the type of information that is needed, the condition and the age of the property.
A homebuyer survey reports on defects in the property, its condition and actionable repairs. These types of report are compliant to the RICS format and have been designed to cover all aspects of the property but is more of an abbreviated version of the RICS full building survey. This type of survey report is generally suitable for more modern type property built after 1950’s.
The RICS Homebuyers Survey (Level 2 Survey) is ideal for properties in good condition, providing an essential overview of the property’s condition, without complexity. This service is perfect for first-time buyers purchasing modern homes or those purchasing similar homes in Bath, Bristol, Wiltshire, Somerset or Cardiff, where the property market is highly competitive.
The Homebuyers Survey focuses on key aspects such as the exterior, roof, and visible structural components, identifying defects that could affect the property’s value. With a rapid report turnaround, clients can quickly assess the condition of their potential home and decide whether to proceed with the purchase.
Key elements of the Homebuyers survey.
– Visual Inspection – A comprehensive inspection of the property’s major elements, including the exterior, roof, walls, and interiors.
– Defect Identification – Identifying visible defects, such as cracks, damp, or wear that could affect the property’s value.
– Maintenance Advice – Offering recommendations for future maintenance and minor repairs to preserve the property’s condition.
– Energy Efficiency – A brief overview of the property’s energy efficiency, highlighting any potential areas for improvement.
This type of survey provides a more detailed report than the homebuyer survey. It is recommended for older properties and those in need of work, or simply for peace of mind. Our Full Building survey gives the best and most comprehensive feedback and advice. Also known as a Structural Building Survey, the surveyor will look at the complete property and give a detailed opinion regarding the state of every single aspect of the building. This is our most commonly commissioned report and our specialist area of expertise. It is particularly suitable for older properties or properties which have had major alterations over the years or properties which appear to have problems that need further investigation. The building survey includes an inspection of the whole of the property both inside and out including entering the roof void where applicable.
As a RICS regulated building surveyor, Western Building Consultants can provide all types of residential building surveys. We can also provide advice on how to alter or extend your property including carrying out project management of the works.
For a more thorough evaluation of a property’s condition, the RICS Full Building Survey (Level 3 Survey) provides an in-depth assessment, ideal for older properties or those with hidden defects that may not be immediately visible. This is particularly valuable in areas like Clifton, Bristol and central Bath, where historic buildings often require extra scrutiny. WBC Group’s RICS Building Survey includes the following key features:
This Level 3 Survey is essential for buyers, particularly those considering older or complex properties. It provides a comprehensive understanding of any existing issues or future challenges, ensuring informed decisions and peace of mind for prospective owners.
How does our service differ from our competitors? We are not in the business of volume surveys compared to other regional practices; we provide bespoke quality building surveys in Bath and surrounding areas that are tailored to your needs as the client. This can include looking at specific items or options for refurbishment and extension or particular areas of worry. Our reports are usually turned around in 5 working days. Due to our unique multi-disciplinary approach, we provide an unrivalled after service, including where appropriate the drawing up of a schedule of repair works and project administration. We will call you after your residential building survey to discuss any major issues identified, our reports also contain an approximation of the costs involved to bring the property up to a modern standard. If we think the property will not meet your brief, we may even discuss with you not continuing with the report to save costs.
WBC Group stands out in the property consultancy and surveying market due to its unique advantages and commitment to delivering exceptional service. With a strong emphasis on RICS Homebuyers Surveys and RICS Building Surveys, WBC Group provides essential insights to help clients make informed decisions. However, it’s their added benefits and key differentiators that truly set them apart from the competition. Below are the four main unique selling points that make WBC Group the top choice for property consultancy in Bath, Clifton, Bristol, Cardiff, Wiltshire, and North Somerset.
WBC Group, formerly known as Western Building Consultants, has earned significant recognition at the prestigious Bath Property Awards, winning in three key categories: Best Consultant, Best Employer, and Best Civic Project. These accolades demonstrate the firm’s outstanding reputation and contribution to the property and construction industry. As Best Consultant, WBC Group was recognized for their exceptional expertise, service, and dedication to quality. Their Best Employer award highlights the firm’s commitment to fostering a positive, supportive work environment for employees. Additionally, the Best Civic Project award acknowledges their significant involvement in projects that have made a lasting impact on the community. These awards reflect the firm’s focus on excellence, innovation, and a community-centered approach to their work.
Another key strength of WBC Group is their ability to provide fast reports and quotes. With a large in-house team of experts and administrators, they are able to quickly deliver accurate assessments, allowing clients to move forward with their property decisions without delay. In today’s fast-paced property market, timely service is essential, and WBC Group’s streamlined processes ensure that RICS Homebuyers Surveys and RICS Building Surveys are delivered quickly and efficiently, without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renovating, WBC Group ensures that clients stay on schedule, minimizing delays and helping them make informed choices with confidence.
WBC Group’s multidisciplinary approach is another major advantage. Their team, which includes Surveyors, Structural Engineers, Architects, and other specialists, collaborates seamlessly on each project. This integrated approach ensures all aspects of a property transaction, survey, or construction project are aligned, leading to improved project cohesion, faster decision-making, and clearer communication. If any additional defects need further investigation or expertise, the team can quickly mobilize and recommend the appropriate course of action, making the process smoother for clients. This cohesive teamwork saves time, reduces confusion, and ultimately enhances the efficiency of each project, whether it’s identifying structural problems, planning alterations, or designing architectural extensions.
WBC Group’s in-depth local knowledge is another key differentiator. Having operated for over 20 years in Bath, Bristol, Cardiff, Wiltshire, and North Somerset, they possess a wealth of expertise and an understanding of the regional property market that is unparalleled. This extensive experience allows WBC Group to offer tailored advice based on local trends, property types, and common building issues specific to these areas. Their knowledge also extends to building regulations, planning laws, and construction challenges unique to the region, helping clients navigate local complexities with ease. With WBC Group, clients gain access to advice that is not only relevant but also rooted in a deep understanding of the local market.
WBC Group is proud to be RICS, CIAT, and Trading Standards approved, which assures clients that every service is conducted to the highest professional standards. RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) membership signifies their commitment to technical, ethical, and regulatory excellence. The firm’s CIAT (Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists) approval ensures the delivery of top-quality architectural services, while their Trading Standards accreditation guarantees that they operate transparently and with integrity. These industry recognitions not only reassure clients of WBC Group’s expertise and professionalism but also emphasize their dedication to offering the best possible service at every stage of a project.
WBC Group’s combination of award-winning service, fast response times, multidisciplinary expertise, local knowledge, and professional accreditations makes them the ideal partner for property consultancy and surveying services in Bath, Clifton, Bristol, Cardiff, Wiltshire, and North Somerset.
Bath, Clifton in Bristol and Cheltenham contains a large density of Listed Buildings; knowledge of their construction is very important and many building surveyors outside of the area lack the expertise to deal with the issues facing the historic stock. Our surveyors are fully equipped and skilled to carry out surveys on historic or sensitive Listed buildings in Bath and carry out defect analysis across a whole range of properties across the city.
If you need advice about your property purchase, Western building Consultants can help. We provide home buyer reports and residential building surveys to help you make an informed decision on whether you should proceed with the purchase of your property. Buying a house is an important and expensive investment getting the correct building survey will help you decide if the purchase price is reasonable, and also inform you if the property has any significant defects or serious risks affecting the property.
WBC Group is renowned for its expertise in conservation architecture and surveying services, offering specialised services that ensure the preservation and enhancement of historic and listed buildings. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges associated with maintaining older properties, their conservation architecture team provides tailored solutions in Clifton Bristol and Bath that respect the historical integrity of buildings while ensuring they meet modern standards. This includes sensitive renovations, repairs, and restoration work that adheres to the strict regulations governing heritage properties, ensuring that each project preserves the building’s character while improving its functionality.
Their surveying services are an essential part of this process. WBC Group’s RICS Building Surveys are particularly valuable for clients dealing with heritage properties, as these surveys thoroughly assess the condition of structures, highlighting any defects, wear, or potential issues that need addressing. The RICS Full Building Survey (Level 3 Survey) is especially beneficial for older buildings, providing detailed insights into structural elements, potential risks, and the level of conservation required. These surveys, combined with expert advice on materials and techniques, ensure that restoration work is carried out to the highest standard, preserving the building’s historical value while making it safe and functional for modern use.
WBC Group’s conservation architecture and surveying services offer a seamless blend of technical expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to safeguarding architectural heritage. Whether it’s a listed building or a historical property in need of restoration, WBC Group provides clients with expert guidance and solutions that balance conservation with practicality, ensuring that these properties are preserved for future generations.
WBC Group provides a specialised Single Fault Assessment Service across Bristol, Cardiff, Wiltshire, and Bath, offering expert evaluations and advice when a specific issue arises in a property. Whether it’s a structural problem, a defect in the building fabric, or a damp issue, their team of experienced Chartered Surveyors, Structural Engineers, Architectural Technologists, and Architects can quickly identify the root cause and recommend or design the most effective solutions.
This service is particularly valuable for homeowners, property investors, or developers who face a single, isolated problem that requires a detailed investigation. Often, clients seek out a Single Fault Assessment after a concern has been flagged in a Level 2 Homebuyers Survey or Level 3 RICS Building Survey, but they require further analysis or a second opinion on the severity of the issue. WBC Group offers a thorough inspection of the affected area, followed by a comprehensive report detailing the findings, potential risks, and recommended actions or further investigations.
With extensive local knowledge of common issues in Bristol, Cardiff, Wiltshire, and Bath, WBC Group addresses regional challenges with precision and efficiency. Whether the issue is an unexpected crack in the wall, damp problems, or foundation movement, the Single Fault Assessment Service ensures accurate diagnosis and the right remedial measures are put in place to prevent further damage.
WBC Group’s fast and reliable service helps clients address property issues promptly, reducing the risk of escalation into larger, more costly problems. Their tailored approach ensures that the issue is resolved efficiently and effectively, giving clients peace of mind that their property is in expert hands.
Being socially responsible and promoting excellent ethics is at the forefront of our business. Our staff are happy and content and this is shown through our positive approach to your project. We work to the highest professional standards as required by both the RICS and CIAT. You can rest assured that when you employ WBC you will be supporting an organisation that champions local, national and international projects through schemes such as FairTrade, Mentoring Plus and the Bath percent club. This is backed up by a rigorous Corporate Social Responsibility Policy. We sponsor many grass roots sports clubs such as Combe Down Rugby Club, Frome Park Bowls Club & Cardiff Harlequins.
We are realistic with timescales and honest about what you will receive. Most people underestimate the time involved with a building project, but we are upfront about what is involved and will be clear about how long a project might take. Throughout the project we will continue to update you about progress and will advise you if there will be a disruption in the timetable.
We have vast planning experience and are adaptable to most architectural styles and ages of buildings. We are perfectly able to adapt to the style of your property from contemporary to traditional, urban to rural. We have designed projects in most styles and can use our broad experience to help design the best solution for your property, using whatever construction technology best suits your needs. Whether you plan a modest alteration or something spectacular WBC can help you achieve your project goals.
We employ qualified professionals with a variety of skill sets and the latest training. many of our employees have specialist post graduate qualifications. We also train selected staff through university programmes and professional qualifications to ensure our clients get the best trained surveyors and up to date advice. You will receive a professional, comprehensive and cohesive consultation and guidance throughout the project, ensuring that your development is handled with a consultant level of knowledge.
We are here for you when you need us, with our survey to completion guarantee. You won’t be left alone, we will fit in wherever you need us in the project or guide you through the whole process. You will have the knowledge that someone is always at hand whatever level of service you need.
Whilst offering exceptional value for money we also bring a positive, approachable, pragmatic, realistic and well rounded attitude to your project. You will feel at ease discussing issues with your project, our pragmatic approach to design and refurbishment means that we can often deliver built in VALUE. One example of this is recognising where cost savings can be made in the design without compromising the overall scheme and offering a higher standard of technical specification over many of our competitors, this reduces the need for outside engineering input and ultimately saves you money in fees. We are grounded which means that we can deliver a build in a cost conscious manner in order to make sure our projects are buildable.
Where we do not have the in house skills to tackle an element of a project we are well networked locally to utilise outside consultants that we have built up relationships with over many years. You will get the best of local knowledge and be introduced to like minded trusted suppliers with excellent professional services.
We can provide the majority of services required for a small project in house, making us practically a one stop shop. Having most services in house means that we are often fully accountable for the professional services on your project, this ensures simplicity, communication and efficiency. By utilising a multi-disciplinary approach we are able to keep professional costs for the project extremely competitive and hassle free, essentially you only pay for one set of overheads.
We have unparalleled technical knowledge and produce comprehensive architectural designs and surveys. You will be getting market-leading technical advice that has been approached with imaginative problem-solving techniques. This helps us to identify potential problems with a build before they arise.
Our knowledge adds value, an example of this is that most architects do not provide any advice on the structure of a building during the building regulations approval stage, relying on a structural engineer to produce all work relating to the super structure. At Western Building Consultants we provide structural advice on many areas, such as timber design for floors and roofs, limiting the scope of the engineers work and saving you money.
Having a large team of surveyors means that your project is unlikely to be held up due to other circumstances, there will always be at least two surveyors familiar with the project therefore continuity and a personal service will be retained. On larger schemes a bigger team will be assembled with the required specialist knowledge to fully support your project.
Merlin House
No 1 Langstone Business Park,
Priory Drive
01633982588
Commerce Park, Unit R17, Marshall Way
01373488566
Western House,
2 Rush Hill
01225789307
Sophia House,
28 Cathedral Road
02922679366
Kingston House,
Lydiard Fields
01793234516
Studio 1a,
31 Berkeley Square
0117 3294290
Unit 2, Byre Workshops, Winterbourne Court Farm Barn, Church Lane, Winterbourne
0117 3294290