How Building Surveys Support Compliance
A building survey is not only about identifying defects. It is also about ensuring a property meets the standards required by law. Many regulations, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, place duties on property owners and employers to maintain safe premises.
During a building survey, a chartered surveyor will assess whether the structure, layout, and materials of the property could pose health or safety risks. For example, they might note missing balustrades on staircases, poor emergency lighting, or areas where the floor levels create trip hazards. These are not just maintenance concerns; they can be legal liabilities if left unaddressed.
The survey report provides a practical overview of what is safe, what is not, and what should be prioritised. It helps clients demonstrate that they have taken reasonable steps to manage risk — something the law expects every duty holder to do.
The Connection Between Maintenance and Safety
Health and safety issues often stem from poor or deferred maintenance. Leaking roofs lead to water ingress, which in turn can cause ceiling collapse or electrical hazards. Damaged paving can cause trips and injuries. Missing or deteriorated fire seals can stop a building from performing properly in an emergency.
A building survey highlights these early signs of deterioration so they can be fixed before they turn into compliance failures. Regular surveys and maintenance inspections help demonstrate a proactive approach to safety, protecting both people and reputation.
In our experience, organisations that schedule surveys every few years spend less in the long run. They catch problems while they are still manageable, avoid enforcement action, and extend the lifespan of their property assets.
Specialist Risks: Asbestos, Fire Safety, and Access
Certain building risks require specific expertise. Asbestos, for instance, is one of the most serious compliance challenges for older buildings. Surveyors will identify materials that are likely to contain asbestos and advise if further testing or a formal asbestos management plan is required.
Fire safety is another critical area. A building survey may reveal blocked escape routes, insufficient fire compartmentation, or outdated detection systems. These findings can then be cross-checked with a fire risk assessment to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.
Accessibility is also an important consideration. Under the Equality Act 2010, property owners and employers have a duty to ensure their premises are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. A building survey can flag areas where access needs improvement, such as missing ramps or unsuitable door widths, helping clients plan reasonable adjustments.
Why Businesses and Landlords Should Take It Seriously
For landlords and employers, the cost of ignoring health and safety obligations can be severe. Fines, enforcement notices, and legal claims can quickly outweigh the cost of a professional survey. More importantly, the reputational damage from a preventable accident can be difficult to repair.
Health and safety compliance is not just about avoiding penalties. It is about demonstrating professionalism and care. Whether you manage a commercial building, a residential block, or a public facility, you have a duty to ensure that everyone who enters is safe.
A comprehensive building survey gives you the information needed to meet that duty. It allows you to plan maintenance, prioritise improvements, and prove that you have taken all reasonable steps to protect occupants.
The Bottom Line
Building surveys and health and safety compliance go hand in hand. A well-executed survey does more than find defects — it helps property owners and businesses stay compliant with the law, protect users, and prevent costly future failures.
At Harrison Clarke Chartered Building Surveyors, our surveys are designed to be practical, informative, and compliant with the latest standards. We help clients identify risks, plan remedial work, and keep their buildings safe and legally sound.
If you are responsible for a property and want to ensure you are meeting your health and safety duties, contact our team today.
For more expert advice on surveying and property matters, check out our range of informative videos on our website or YouTube channel. Harrison Clarke Chartered Surveyors is here to guide you every step of the way!
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