Historic Building Surveys

Gowers Surveyors are specialists in older and historic properties and offer a dedicated Historic Building Survey.

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What is a Historic Building Survey?

A Historic Building Survey is a detailed property survey designed for older, period and listed buildings. It assesses the condition of the property, identifies defects and considers traditional construction methods, historic materials and appropriate repair and maintenance requirements.

Gowers Surveyors provides Historic Building Surveys for properties across Cambridge, Stamford and Peterborough, with particular expertise in buildings constructed before 1919, including listed, timber-framed, thatched and other traditionally built homes.

Why do I need a Historic Building Survey?

This service is designed for buildings constructed before 1919 and includes unique properties and designated listed buildings. Our property surveyors in Cambridge, Stamford and Peterborough deliver Historic Building Survey Repots that are as comprehensive as a RICS Level 3 Survey, but additionally provides specific details about how to look after your character home, helping you to enjoy it for many more years to come.

The UK housing market still largely operates under the principle of ‘buyer beware’, putting the onus on the buyer to find out everything there is to know about the property before contracts are exchanged. While the seller must disclose a wide range of information on the Property Information Forms, there may be some hidden defects and issues that aren’t covered, particularly if the property has a long history.

Without commissioning an independent survey, you are leaving yourself vulnerable to problems that may not be apparent to the untrained eye but may end up costing you thousands in remedial work after you have moved in.

Why do I need a Historic Building Survey?

Our Historic Building Surveys are designed around the historic nature of the building you are about to invest in. In addition to an in-depth investigation, we provide specialist insights into many of the idiosyncrasies of these buildings’ construction techniques and materials that may affect their future stability.

With their timber frames, sash windows and thatched roofs, it’s not surprising that so many buyers are drawn to the charm and character of buildings from a bygone age. However, these unique features can create unique problems, and historic construction materials and methods will typically demand a very different approach to maintenance and upkeep compared to modern building techniques and materials.

When surveying a historic building, it is not uncommon to find problems relating to:

Solid walls
Old wiring or plumbing
Thatched or stone roofs
Exposed timber
Subsidence and heave
Dampness and timber decay
Unauthorised modifications to listed buildings

All the above features will have specific characteristics that impact the building’s structure and condition as it gets older. Whether the property you intend to buy looks immaculately cared for or is visibly in need of renovation, a professional investigation into its condition will help you to make an informed, confident decision about the purchase. A Historic Building Survey will help you get a better understanding of how to manage these as a homeowner.

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Historic Building Survey vs RICS Level 3 Survey

Feature	RICS Level 3 Survey	Historic Building Survey
Provides a detailed assessment of the property’s condition	✓	✓
Identifies defects and recommended repairs	✓	✓
Provides a comprehensive overview of the building	✓	✓
Suitable for older, larger or more complex properties	✓	✓
Provides general repair and maintenance advice	✓	✓
Includes specialist guidance on traditional materials, construction and repairs	✕	✓
Adds further interpretation for historic features and traditional construction	✕	✓
Specifically suited to older, period and listed properties	✕	✓
Particularly useful for pre-1919, listed, timber-framed, thatched or traditionally built properties	◐ Limited	✓

How old is the property?

When we talk about historic buildings or period properties, we generally refer to dwellings constructed before World War I. Depending on the era in which they were built, they each have a unique style. Below are some of the most common types of older homes in the UK and how to recognise them:

Tudor (1480-1603)

Tudor buildings are some of the earliest properties to survive to the current day. Classic features include black & white woodwork, and houses were typically half-timbered with white painted wattle & daub walls. There were steeply pitched roofs, tall, narrow doors and small-paned casement windows.

Stuart (1603-1714)

The Stuart period saw flat-fronted, bare brick-built houses with sash windows. After the Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed over 13,000 timber-built houses in 4 days, Parliament decreed that homes must be built of brick. Stuart features include wood panelling and large fireplaces, spacious parlours and richly plastered ceilings, and small rooms at the top of the house acting as servant quarters.

Georgian (1714-1830)

Georgian buildings have symmetrical, flat exteriors and balanced interior layouts. Houses were often stucco fronted and render painted in white or cream. Townhouses were arranged over 3-4 floors. Small-paned sash windows were a defining feature, with taller windows on the first two and smaller ones on the top storeys where servant accommodation was located.

Victorian (1830-1901)

The Victorians were prolific housebuilders across the social spectrum – from grand manor houses to workers’ cottages. Victorian architecture is characterised externally by coloured brickwork, high pitched roofs and gable trims. High ceilings, large sash windows including prominent bay windows, and fireplaces in every room, were key interior features. Elaborate design details reflecting the wealth of the owner included ornate mouldings, stained-glass and decorative floor tiles.

Edwardian (1901-1914)

Edwardian houses are known for their ornate decorative details such as floor tiles, stained-glass and timber. Typically found in suburban areas and often heavily influenced by the Arts & Crafts movement, these buildings tend to be wider and less high, with bigger hallways, spacious rooms with high ceilings and large windows. Externally, red brickwork and Mock-Tudor cladding and timber at the top of the house were popular.

Client Testimonials

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
    Keir Clarke 
 7 July 2026
 
 
  Paul completed a Historic Building Survey for me on a 1842 stone cottage. Throughout the process from initial inquiry to sending of the completed the report, the communication has been outstanding. Paul and Catherine answered all of my questions clearly and confidently, providing me with the greatest assurance that the survey was going to be thorough and meet my requirements. The report took place, and Paul phoned me that day and discussed the findings, and then within the given timeframe the full report was sent. The level and quality of information provided was brilliant and the attention to detail was excellent. The report answered questions that I was going to ask without needing to, clearly demonstrating the time and effort that goes into the survey. This combined with an excellent price, ultimately formed a brilliant customer experience. I will pass on my recommendations to friends and family. Thanks again for all your hard work Gowers Surveyors!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Simon Gledhill 
 6 November 2025
 
 
  Absolutely phenomenal! Paul completed a level 3 historic building survey on a large barn conversion for me. I honestly don't think I have ever been more impressed by any proffessional in any field! I was told by the estate agent that he has a reputation for providing next level detail... and that proved to be correct! His knowledge and wisdom are extraordinary. The report (supplied both in pdf and very impressive bound hardcover book) was 132 pages. It included very relevant advice about how to care for the building, adjusted to the specific context. But 75% of the content was describing the condition of the building and what work was necessary to rectify defects. The report was easy to read and written in plain English and with photos to illustrate. Both before and after the survey, I spoke at length with Paul on the phone - he was very patient with all my silly questions! We haven't yet decided if we are going to progress with this purchase, but I can certainly say that if we pursue another house instead, I won't use anyone other than Paul to survey it!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Estella Todisco 
 6 September 2024
 
 
  I can’t thank Paul Gowers enough for the work he did on a  party wall dispute. He was professional, responsive and personable.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Ben Green 
 24 May 2023
 
 
  Having used Paul's services for a survey on our upcoming listed building purchase I can assure you that you will get the most thorough, professional and helpful service that you could wish for. The report tallied over 100 pages covering all aspects of the house, walls, frames, windows, roof space, drainage, outbuildings, render, roof tiles, water tanks, electrics, insulation, listed building consent, health and safety and much more. Not only that but Paul's report also told us how to best maintain the house going forwards, using what materials and how often things need doing. This was most definitely worth every penny and has allowed us to make an informed decision on the purchase going forwards.

A+ rating from me!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    James Marron 
 19 May 2023
 
 
  I could not recommend Paul Gowers highly enough. Excellent service and a very comprehensive, clear report. An extremely knowledgeable and helpful professional.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Brian Scull 
 15 September 2021
 
 
  I have just had a Survey completed by Gowers of Stamford. I have to say that the team there are superb.
From the first contact with Catherine who was courteous, professional and helpful and who also arranged everything. To the surveyor Paul who was marvellous, the report was clear and well presented and easy to understand. Paul was extremely helpful and prepared to spend time discussing all the sections and any issues i had.He was very professional and a pleasure to deal with.
I don’t normally do revues but felt compelled on this occasion because they deserve enormous praise and i would thoroughly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Cameron Bauldry 
 7 July 2021
 
 
  I needed a building survey doing at short notice after red flags were raised once receiving searches and the sellers paperwork back. Unfortunately Gowers and everyone else I checked with were all booked up for months however Paul took time out of his busy day to speak to me, listen to my situation and provide me with some fantastic advice which I very much appreciate. He is very knowledgeable and the advice given has helped me in the next steps of my house purchase. Thank you again.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Neil Crees 
 18 March 2021
 
 
  The value of using Paul, a local well known professional, was huge.  I received immediate personal feedback allowing me to take timely action to avoid what could have been an expensive mistake.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Sam Paul 
 10 December 2019
 
 
  We engaged Gowers to carry out a building survey for an old residential property with multiple issues. Paul Gowers was excellent in his response time to our questions and the level of professional reporting. The service we received was reassuring for us and we would certainly use Gowers again.

Are you buying a listed building?

Many historic homes are more than just ‘period properties’; they may have designated listed status – Grade I, Grade II*, or Grade II. A building may be listed for any number of reasons, but the overall aim is to protect building features that are deemed to be of special architectural or historical significance. A building’s listed status may apply to the exterior, the interior, any object or structure fixed to it, and any object or structure within the grounds.

The grade refers to how the protected building features should be treated and maintained. Most listed buildings are Grade II listed. Making improvements and alterations to a listed building is not impossible but it needs to be done with extreme care and requires prior Listed Building Consent.

Purchasing a listed building requires a keen commitment on the part of the buyer to become the custodian of a valuable heritage asset. A Historic Building Survey is absolutely essential to providing you with a specialist assessment of the property.

At Gowers Surveyors, our Historic Building Surveys are perfectly placed to give you an in-depth insight into listed buildings from any period. Our experienced team specialises in comprehensive surveys of older, historic properties, providing you with a premium quality report on how the old building works, how to look after it, and what you can and cannot do to a listed building.

What does a Historic Building Survey include?

A Historic Building Survey provides a detailed assessment of the property’s condition, with additional guidance on historic construction, appropriate repairs and long-term maintenance.

It can include:

assessment of the building’s current condition
identification of visible defects and areas of concern
recommendations for appropriate repairs
advice on traditional materials and construction methods
guidance on damp, moisture and solid-wall construction
information on ongoing maintenance requirements
advice on energy efficiency in older properties
details that may be relevant to your legal adviser
consideration of listed-building or conservation restrictions where applicable
recommendations for further specialist investigation where required

As with any of our reports, your surveyor will be happy to go through any questions you may have and highlight any areas that require further specialist investigation.

How to choose the right surveyor for a historic building

Whether you have your heart set on a thatched cottage, a Victorian semi or a listed heritage home, the skills needed to expertly survey these types of buildings are clearly very different to those needed for modern properties. So, what should you be looking for in a historic building surveyor?

Start by seeking out an experienced member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). RICS surveyors adhere to a strict code of conduct, while robust disciplinary, complaints and arbitration procedures are in place to ensure each client receives a professional service.

Gowers Surveyors is headed up by Paul Gowers who is a RICS fellow with 25+ years’ experience.

Next, look for other professional qualifications and specific expertise in old, historic or non-standard buildings. Does your chosen surveyor have advanced knowledge oftraditional building materials? Do they have the necessary tools to carry out historic building surveys? What about a demonstrable passion for protecting our national architectural heritage?

Gowers Surveyors tick all the above boxes. Paul Gowers is a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Chartered Association of Building Engineers and the Faculty of Building. He is also a long-standing member of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB). We’ve been conducting Historic Building Surveys for a wide variety of heritage homes for decades and have the experience and technical know-how to provide homebuyers with all the expert advice they need.

Historic Building Surveys FAQs

What type of survey is best for an older property?: The right survey depends on the age, construction and condition of the building. Older or traditionally constructed properties may benefit from a more specialist survey that considers historic materials, previous alterations and appropriate repair methods, rather than looking at the building in the same way as a modern home.
Is a Level 3 Survey enough for a period property?: In many cases, a Level 3 Survey may be suitable for an older property. However, if the building is listed, particularly old or constructed using traditional materials such as solid walls, timber framing or thatch, a more specialist assessment can provide additional guidance on repairs, maintenance and historic fabric.
Should I get a specialist survey for a listed building?: It is often advisable. Listed buildings can have specific repair and alteration requirements, and previous work may also need to be considered carefully. A surveyor with experience of historic buildings can assess the property while taking its construction and protected features into account.
What will the survey actually look at?: The survey can assess the overall condition of the building, visible defects, signs of damp or timber decay, structural movement, roof condition, traditional materials and previous alterations. It can also provide guidance on suitable repairs and ongoing maintenance.
What common problems are found in older homes?: Common issues can include dampness, timber decay, structural movement, defects affecting solid walls, roof problems, ageing services and repairs carried out with unsuitable modern materials. The significance of these issues depends on the individual property and how it has been constructed.
Are Victorian and Edwardian homes treated differently from modern properties?: Often, yes. Many Victorian and Edwardian homes were built using materials and construction methods that behave differently from modern buildings. Understanding features such as solid walls, lime-based materials and older timber structures can be important when diagnosing defects and recommending repairs.
How much does the survey cost?: The fee will depend on the size, age, complexity, condition and location of the property, as well as whether it is listed or has unusual construction features. A tailored quotation can usually be provided once the property details are known.

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