Domestic Construction Inspection
An independent inspection of domestic building works at key construction stages, providing quality assurance and identifying issues before they are covered up. Essential for homeowners managing their own building projects or those who want independent oversight of their contractor's work.
When you invest in a construction project — whether an extension, renovation, loft conversion or self-build — you need to know the work is being done properly. Our construction stage inspections give you an independent, professional assessment at the critical points where quality matters most, before the next stage of work covers everything up.
Domestic Construction Inspection
Our Home Surveyor & Property Valuer Accreditation & Professional Membership
Our Domestic Construction Inspections are carried out by qualified surveyors who belong to the professional bodies that set UK property standards. Every report is prepared to recognised guidance and is completely independent, so you can rely on the findings when you buy, sell or value a home.
What Is a Domestic Construction Inspection?
A domestic construction inspection is a professional, independent assessment of building works at critical stages of a construction project. The surveyor attends the site at agreed milestones — such as excavations and foundations, damp-proof course installation, superstructure erection, roofing, first fix, plastering and practical completion — and inspects the work that has been carried out. Each inspection is documented in a written report with photographs, identifying any defects, non-compliance with building regulations or departure from good practice so that issues can be rectified before the next stage of work conceals them permanently.
What It Covers
- Excavations and foundation works before concrete is poured
- Damp-proof course installation and ground floor construction
- Superstructure: walls, floors, lintels, beams and structural openings
- Roof structure, felt, battens, tiles or slates, and roof coverings
- First fix: electrical cabling, plumbing pipework, heating installation
- Plastering, dry-lining and second-fix carpentry
- Practical completion — final inspection before handover or occupation
- Compliance with building regulations and statutory requirements
What It Does Not Cover
- A market valuation of the property or land
- Project management or day-to-day site supervision
- Structural engineering calculations or design assessments
- Enforcement of building regulations (that is the building control body's role)
- Guarantee of future work quality or contractor performance
- Legal advice on construction contracts or disputes
- Testing of underground drainage beyond visible inspection
Is a Construction Inspection Right for You?
A domestic construction inspection is ideal for anyone undertaking or overseeing building works who wants independent assurance that the work is being carried out to the required standard.
Suitable For
- Self-build and self-managed renovation projects
- Homeowners who want independent oversight of contractor work
- Key construction stages: foundations, structure, weatherproofing, completion
- Ensuring building regulation compliance
Not Suitable For
- Minor DIY projects
- Cosmetic decorating (not a construction inspection)
- Completed works where a retrospective survey is needed
Not sure which inspection you need? Speak to a surveyor for free, no-obligation advice.
What Is Included in a Construction Inspection
Every domestic construction inspection we produce includes the following as standard.
Stage Inspections
Inspections at critical points: excavations and foundations, damp-proof course, superstructure, roof, first fix, plastering, second fix and completion.
Quality Assurance
Independent check that workmanship and materials meet the required standard before the next stage proceeds.
Defect Identification
Issues identified and photographed while they can still be rectified — not after the works are complete.
Contractor Oversight
Objective, professional assessment of your builder's work — giving you confidence or early warning.
Written Reports
A report after each stage inspection with photographs, findings and any recommended actions.
How the Construction Inspection Process Works
From your first enquiry to receiving your inspection report — straightforward, professional and independent.
Discuss Your Project
Contact us to discuss your construction project, its scope and the key stages where you want independent inspection. We help you decide which stages matter most.
Agree the Stages
We agree the inspection milestones — foundations, superstructure, roof, first fix, plastering, completion, or any combination that suits your project.
Inspections Carried Out
The surveyor attends site at each agreed stage, inspects the work thoroughly and photographs everything. Issues are flagged immediately so they can be rectified without delay.
Receive Your Report
A written report is provided after each stage inspection with photographs, findings and any recommended actions — giving you a clear, professional record of the project's quality at every stage.
Domestic Construction Inspection Questions
At which stages should I have a construction inspection?
The key stages for inspection are: (1) Excavations and foundations — before concrete is poured; (2) Damp-proof course and ground floor construction; (3) Superstructure — walls, floors and roof structure, before plastering; (4) First fix — electrics, plumbing, heating, before covering; (5) Plastering and second fix; (6) Practical completion — the final inspection before handover. You do not need all of these; we can agree the stages that matter most to your project.
Can you help if I am in dispute with my builder?
Yes. An independent construction inspection provides an objective, professional assessment of the work carried out to date and any defects identified. This can be used as evidence in discussions with your contractor or, if necessary, in formal dispute resolution. Where work does not meet the required standard, the report gives you a clear, factual basis for requiring rectification.
How much does a domestic construction inspection cost?
Construction stage inspections cost from approximately £250 plus VAT per stage visit, depending on the size and complexity of the project and the number of stages you require. We can provide a fixed-price quote for a series of inspections once we understand the project scope. The cost of independent inspections is typically a small fraction of the total project budget but can prevent defects that would cost far more to rectify later.
Get a Fixed-Price Construction Inspection Quote
Free, no-obligation quote within 24 hours. Professional stage inspection reports delivered after each visit. Covering Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Northamptonshire, Greater London and Oxfordshire.