Inspection Flashcards
What is the primary objective of a property inspection?
To gather accurate physical and locational information to support valuation, measurement, or other property-related advice.
What key features should be noted during an inspection?
Construction type, layout, condition, measurements, services, access, environmental factors, and evidence of occupancy or use.
What tools might you use during an inspection?
Laser measure, camera, floorplans, PPE, clipboard or tablet, and a checklist or inspection template.
What safety considerations are required when inspecting property?
Risk assessments, use of PPE, awareness of asbestos, structural integrity, lone working policies, and access hazards.
What documents might you review before inspection?
Title documents, lease agreements, planning consents, previous valuations, floorplans, and agency particulars.
Why is it important to record details accurately during inspection?
To ensure the reliability of valuations and advice, comply with professional standards, and reduce risk of professional negligence.
What is the purpose of an inspection checklist?
To ensure consistency, completeness, and efficiency during inspections, particularly for complex or multi-site portfolios.
Describe how you carried out a recent inspection.
I prepared by reviewing plans and previous records, used laser measures and a checklist on site, and documented key building features and layout.
How did you handle access limitations during an inspection?
I arranged revisits, contacted site contacts for access, or noted assumptions where access was restricted and clearly flagged limitations in my report.
How do you ensure measurements are accurate during inspection?
I use calibrated laser devices, cross-check with floorplans, and remeasure critical dimensions when inconsistencies arise.
Have you inspected heritage or listed buildings?
Yes, I noted special features, consulted listing descriptions, avoided damage, and recorded conservation constraints.
What steps do you take post-inspection?
I transfer notes, review photos, update plans or templates, and document assumptions and limitations in the inspection record.
What role does inspection play in the valuation process?
Inspection provides the physical basis for valuation inputs like area, condition, use, and compliance with assumptions.
How do you report findings from an inspection?
Through annotated plans, written summaries, photographs, and integration into a valuation or measurement report.
What limitations should be disclosed in your inspection report?
Access issues, visibility limitations, uninspected areas, or reliance on third-party information.
What challenges have you faced during inspections?
Challenges include tenant access restrictions, weather conditions, unsafe structures, or lack of property documentation.
How do you manage client expectations following an inspection?
I communicate limitations clearly, explain assumptions, and highlight areas requiring further investigation or specialist input.
How do you inspect multi-occupied or shared buildings?
I inspect communal and private areas separately, confirm demises with floorplans or tenant input, and verify services and shared areas.
What is your approach to inspecting land or development sites?
I review access, topography, boundaries, services, and contamination risk, supported by OS mapping and aerial imagery.
What legislation or guidance is relevant to inspections?
RICS Red Book, Health & Safety at Work Act, Control of Asbestos Regulations, and relevant building or planning guidance.
