What is a specific defect survey — and when do you need one?
A specific defect survey is a focused, professional investigation of one particular concern within a property. Rather than assessing the whole building — as a full Level 2 or Level 3 survey does — it concentrates entirely on a single issue, identifying the cause, assessing the severity, and giving you clear written advice on what to do next.
If you have noticed a crack that has appeared in a wall, an area of damp that keeps returning, a roof that looks as though it may be deteriorating, or any other specific concern, a specific defect survey is usually the right first step before spending money on repairs.
How is it different from a full building survey?
A full RICS Level 2 or Level 3 building survey assesses the entire property — structure, roof, walls, floors, services, grounds — and produces a comprehensive condition report. It is designed for buyers who need to understand the overall condition of a property before purchasing.
A specific defect survey is narrower in scope and faster to produce. It does not assess the whole building. Instead, the surveyor inspects the specific element of concern in depth, researches the probable cause, assesses whether the issue is active or historic, and provides a written report with clear recommendations.
This makes it lower in cost than a full survey, faster to arrange, and directly actionable — you get a report that tells you specifically what is wrong with the thing you are worried about, and what to do about it.
What issues does a specific defect survey cover?
The most common issues we investigate include:
- Cracking — not all cracks are serious, but it is not always obvious which are and which are not. A specific defect survey will assess whether cracking is structural or superficial, active (still moving) or historic (stable), and what the likely cause is. Common causes in Hampshire include clay subsoil movement, lintel failure, thermal movement, and poorly constructed extensions.
- Damp — damp is one of the most frequently misdiagnosed problems in older properties. Rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation all present differently and require different treatments. A specific defect survey will identify which type you are dealing with, where it is coming from, and what the appropriate remedy is — rather than simply recommending a damp-proofing company that has a financial interest in finding a problem.
- Roof defects — deteriorating slates, failed ridge tile mortar, lifted flashings, flat roof degradation, blocked gutters, and chimney issues are all common findings. Where the relevant area is not safely accessible by ladder, we can deploy our drone inspection capability to capture detailed aerial imagery of the roof surface and high-level elements.
- Suspected subsidence — if you have cracking that follows a pattern suggesting foundation movement, a specific defect survey will assess the crack patterns, floor levels, and any other visible evidence to advise on whether specialist structural investigation is warranted. This is important before commissioning more expensive structural engineering work.
- Failed extensions or alterations — works carried out by previous owners are a common source of concern. If an extension looks poorly constructed, a specific defect survey will assess the workmanship and advise on whether any structural or building regulations issues need addressing.
- Timber decay and infestation — rot, woodworm, and other timber defects in floors, roof structures, and joinery can range from cosmetic to structural. A specific defect survey will assess the extent of any timber decay found and recommend appropriate treatment or replacement.
Who commissions a specific defect survey?
Specific defect surveys are not just for buyers. They are equally relevant for:
- Homeowners who have noticed a problem and want professional advice before deciding whether to spend money on repairs. Getting an independent diagnosis before calling a contractor avoids the risk of being sold unnecessary or inappropriate work.
- Buyers who want a second opinion on something flagged in their surveyor's report. A specific defect survey provides an in-depth assessment of a particular concern that a standard survey may have identified but not fully investigated.
- Landlords and property managers dealing with a persistent defect that has not been properly diagnosed or that keeps recurring despite previous treatment.
- Sellers who are aware of a specific issue and want an independent report before listing, either to address the issue or to be able to disclose it transparently to buyers.
- Insurance claimants who need a formal written report from a RICS-regulated surveyor to support a claim relating to a building defect.
- Parties in a dispute — with a contractor, a neighbour, or a previous surveyor — who need independent professional evidence of the cause and extent of a defect.
What does the report include?
A specific defect survey report from Altura Surveyors will typically include:
- A description of the defect as observed
- Assessment of the probable cause
- Assessment of whether the issue is active or historic
- Advice on severity and the risk of further deterioration if left unaddressed
- Recommendations for remedial action, including whether specialist investigation — structural engineer, damp specialist, roofing contractor — is required
- Annotated photographs
The report is written in plain English and delivered within 3 to 5 working days of the inspection.
How much does a specific defect survey cost in Hampshire?
Fees vary depending on the nature and complexity of the issue and the location of the property. Because the survey is focused on a single element rather than the whole building, costs are typically lower than a full Level 2 or Level 3 survey.
For a fee indication, call us on 01252 929125 or email hello@alturasurveyors.co.uk and describe the issue you are concerned about. We will advise on the appropriate scope and provide a fee before you commit.
Book a specific defect survey in Hampshire
Altura Surveyors carries out specific defect surveys across Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire. We are an independent, RICS-regulated practice with no ties to contractors or remediation companies — our advice is based solely on what we find.
Find out more about our specific defect survey service or contact us at alturasurveyors.co.uk/contact.