A Guide On Building Surveyors

A building surveyor is an individual accredited to inspect buildings. Unfortunately, most real estate developers forego the services of building surveyors since they do not comprehend the work of these professionals. Below is all you need to know about building surveyors. 

Who Is A Building Surveyor? 

A building surveyor is a construction professional accredited to inspect buildings under construction or complete structures. So, why would a developer need a building inspected? The Australian Law compels developers to abide by strict construction standards. The surveyor assesses buildings to ascertain that they do not flout the construction standards, building codes, and safety regulations. 

When Do You Need A Building Surveyor?

If you intend to put up a new building, you will need a building surveyor's services at each phase of your project. For instance, the surveyor inspects the construction site and location to determine the applicable building regulations. Remember, building regulations and codes vary based on the soil structure, slope, zoning regulations and prevalence of natural disasters. The surveyor's input helps the design team determine how to design the structure. For instance, it determines the foundation and structural features, orientation, height and amenities. Once the design team completes the blueprints, the surveyor examines them to ensure they comply with the required regulations. In most cases, the surveyor contacts the local council to get the blueprints certified before you commence construction work. 

The building surveyor is a critical aspect of the construction work. Typically, the surveyor's primary responsibility is to ensure the building work follows the blueprints to the letter. The professional inspects the construction work at critical stages, such as the foundation, footings, slabs and roofing. If the building work needs correction, the surveyor issues an enforcement order that stops further construction until the contractor makes the recommended rectifications. Once the contractor completes building work, the surveyor conducts a final inspection to ensure the building is safe for future occupants. At this stage, they issue an occupation certificate that future owners can use to prove that the building complies with the required regulations. 

Building developers could need to conduct extensive renovation work on existing buildings. For example, they might want to add a basement, several storeys or an extension. This renovation work significantly affects the building's structural integrity. Therefore, the developer must consult an architect to redesign the building. In this case, they will need a building surveyor to ensure the new design and construction work does not flout construction regulations. 

Reach out to a local service, such as TRIDENT BUILDING SURVEYING, to learn more.