At MSW Surveyors, we believe that it is very important to really spend the time necessary in each property to understand the whole picture.

Services

Our independent structure allows us the discretion to spend as long as we need within the property (typically, about three hours on site) to provide a thorough inspection.

This is unique within the market and really allows us the time to focus on providing the best Survey product possible. We are happy to meet our Clients on site at the end of a Survey, or have a follow-up call to identify any issues that have been raised in advance of the full Survey.

All our Surveys meet level 3 inspection criteria

Each of our Surveys provides Clients with a comprehensive document to fully inform them about every aspect of the property, giving them an invaluable resource to use with contractors in the future.

Our Photographic Survey

This Survey is designed to be thorough but concise as time is of the essence in the property buying process. It has a similar on-site process to that of the Building Survey, but differs primarily in terms of the length of the written report.

The advantage of the Photographic Report is that it provides the Client and their Legal Advisors with the headline points about the property in a clear and succinct manner, so that these can be considered, prior to exchange of contracts.

Our Building Survey

This Survey details the visible condition and state of repair of the property in a more extensively written report. Like the Photographic Survey, it contains many annotated photographs. The report examines other elements such as historical background, flight-paths and broadband.

Where necessary, we recommend specialists to address specific issues identified.

Our Snagging Survey

This Survey examines the internal spaces carefully, and identifies issues such as water flows to each outlet, hot water response time, leaks to sinks, showers and baths. The space is tested from a user perspective, checking doors, windows, heating (including underfloor heating). General finishes are also inspected culminating in a snagging summary that can be linked to a sales contract.

In addition, we can organise a mechanical and electrical (M & E) inspection by an M & E specialist, to help ascertain the quality and suitability of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing installation, and identify whether the relevant certification for such a system is in place. This too will deliver a summary of actions which can be linked to the sales contract.

Our Drone Service

Many properties in London have limited or no access to the roof which can be one of the most expensive elements of maintenance and repair on a property. Drone footage of such areas will ensure you are able to move forward with a full picture of your potential liabilities. The drone service is available at an additional cost.

Charles Miéville,
Forsters Partner

“Charlie and the MSW team are always super responsive on what are usually time pressured purchases. Their phone call summary to Clients post Survey is hugely appreciated, as are their thorough reports – highly recommended!”

Edward Peers,
Hamptons

“I have been recommending MSW for many years. Their straightforward advice during what can sometimes be an extremely stressful process for all parties is invaluable and their willingness to work with their clients after the survey report has been completed to reach a successful purchase/sale is unrivalled. Having dealt with countless surveyors in my Agency career MSW are a level above the competition.”

Wynne Davies
Developments

“We can vouch from MSW. We have dealt with them for over a decade and their professionalism has been paramount. Charlie Mactaggart is thorough, realistic, and very personable. His knowledge of the London market is excellent, as a result the Surveys have been spot-on when navigating a complicated property acquisition. We trust Charlie’s judgement implicitly and would highly recommend him, and the MSW team to anyone in the business.”

Recent Client

“Your Report was super useful and clear. Your quick turn-around and thoroughness are much appreciated”

Recent Client

“I wanted to say that I'm blown away by the excellent quality of this Survey – I would highly recommend you to anyone. This was way above what I was expecting and it's extremely helpful. Thank you very much!”

Chris Anderson
CEO TED, Client

“Thanks for this, Hugh. It’s a powerful report.”

Helen Marsh,
Partner, Forsters LLP

“Hugh’s Reports are clear, easy to understand and very helpful. He also provides excellent follow-up advice and guidance. His Clients are very well served.”

Janet Armstrong-Fox,
Head of Private Client Property, COLLYER BRISTOW

“Not only are Hugh Watson’s Survey reports thorough, incisive and easily understandable by the Client, as one would expect from such an established and experienced Surveyor, but he also helpfully follows up on issues arising out of his Reports, has a solutions-based approach and is an excellent communicator.”

Rupert Wiggin,
Rupert Wiggin Property Consultants

“Harry has done a number of Surveys on behalf of my Clients. Not only is he very efficient but most importantly for me he is a brilliant communicator. He goes beyond what is usually expected”