These initial discussions are an important part of the service and are always appreciated by our customers. Helpful and informed advice come as standard.
About us
Since 1994, Specialist Xpress has done nothing else but provide property specialist reports and services. Because it’s all we do, our business is totally focused on managing service and quality.
Understanding is KEY!
Property issues can be complex. So, understanding exactly what is needed can need talking through in some detail. When you contact our central team in Oxfordshire, you will deal with someone who understands specialist reports and has good experience of the terminology that surveyors and valuers often use.
Often they’ll ask to see the sections of your report that deal with the specialist advice needed. It helps make sure that the report you commision is the one that you need.
Much more than a directory of firms
Over the years, the services of Specialist Xpress have developed their own hallmark of quality:
Definite answers in plain English
Fixed fees
Quick turnaround
Estimates for repairs and corrective actions
Highly experienced and qualified specialists
Professionals who go the extra mile
Our Leadership Team
Summary of key reports
Asbestos
Asbestos is generally safe if undisturbed, but inhaling fibres can be a dangerous, so DIY repairs shouldn’t be attempted. Good advice can save a lot of money as well as give peace of mind.
Asbestos can be present in roofing, insulation, stippled ceilings, tiling etc. Specialist checks involve sampling and laboratory testing. Reports show recommended works and costings.
Drains Report
CTV cameras are the best way to assess the condition of underground pipework and to record the direction and condition of drains.
Blockages, root incursion, damaged seals and pipework are all reported. Septic tank/ cesspits should be cleared first to allow a detailed CCTV inspection. The report formats will be acceptable to Lenders and come with costings.
Electrical Report
Only fully qualified NICEIC or equivalent registered contractors are used for these inspections.
Periodic Reports. (This identifies problems with the electrics and lists repairs). Costings for repairs are included in these reports based on findings following testing of circuits.
Gas & Central Heating Report
Contractors are all Gas Safe Registered (This replaced the Corgi registered scheme in 2009).
Central heating boilers and systems can be checked, with pipework and radiators. Gas appliances can be tested. Costings are included in reports for any repairs needed.
Roof Report
Roofing problems like sagging or roofspread can be linked to the structure. We will advise as it’s important to get the right professional on the job so good to talk this through before instructing.
Roof coverings checked. Objective and honest answers – no exaggeration of defects or repairs. Costings are included for any repairs needed.
Structural Report
Our engineers will be qualified as MIStructE or MICE. Although they are investigating a specific structural issue, they will look at the whole of the property to ensure that all factors that may be causing the problem are assessed.
Inspections and reports, therefore, are very thorough and recommendations are clear and definite. Engineers aren’t contractors, so approximate costings are included for the recommendations they make. Engineers can also provide loading calculations, foundation design, roof structures etc.
Mortgage Lenders accept the format of reports our engineers provide.
Damp & Timber Report
All specialists are members of an appropriate professional body such as the Property Care Association (PCA). They give objective and honest answers – no exaggeration of defects or repairs.
Damp and timber reports highlight rising damp, condensation, beetle infestation, dry/wet rot etc. Costings for any repairs needed are included. Formats are acceptable to mortgage lenders.
Tree Report
Trees can cause problems to drains and subsoil which supports foundations. Removal may not be best (or even allowed). Professional advice is always the best to know how to care for trees and their effect on buildings.
Reports often include advice re removal/pruning/root action etc. These reports show recommended works and include costings.
Wall Tie Report
Wall tie problems are usually shown in regular spaced horizontal cracking or bulging of external walls.
Endoscope inspections are carried out within cavities. Costings included for any repairs needed involving replacement schemes if needed. Report formats are acceptable to Lenders.
