Product Rules for the
SAVA Home Condition Survey
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INDEX
Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................3
1.
Scope of the Home Condition Survey ......................................................................................................3
2.
Members Skills and Ability .......................................................................................................................3
3.
Fit and Proper Requirements ...................................................................................................................4
4.
Continuous Professional Development ....................................................................................................4
5.
Insurance ..................................................................................................................................................5
6.
Obligatory Licence ....................................................................................................................................5
7.
Undertaking the Inspection ......................................................................................................................5
8.
Compiling the report ................................................................................................................................9
9.
Appendix 1 – Technical Guidance ..........................................................................................................11
10.
Appendix 2 – Home Condition Survey Terms of Engagement for the client .........................................26
11.
Appendix 3 – Disciplinary Process Tariff ................................................................................................30
Important Notice
These Product Rules must be read in conjunction with the Membership Rules. Both Membership
Rules and those Product Rules relevant to the type of report(s) you wish to produce, form the overall
Scheme Rules.
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Introduction
This document applies only to SAVA members when they are instructed to inspect a property to prepare a
Home Condition Survey and provides concise and succinct definitions to allow consistent and accurate
reporting.
Members accepting instructions to provide Home Condition Surveys under the SAVA scheme must comply
with the conditions set out in these requirements and any accompanying technical notes. No departure from
the specified mandatory elements is permitted.
You also need to read and understand the attached Appendix 1 (Technical Guidance which includes the SAVA
Protocol) and Appendix 2 (Disciplinary Tariff) together with any technical advice published by us from time to
time.
Definitions and Standard Terminology
1. The Home Condition Survey may also be called the survey or the HCS. It is a condition survey for home
buyers. The format is owned by NES Ltd and delivered by approved Home Condition Surveyors who are
members of the quality assurance regime operated by NES Ltd under the SAVA name
2. The Surveyor is a suitably qualified individual, as defined by SAVA (see Members Skills and Ability), who
understands building construction and pathology, who is a member of SAVA, and who is contracted to
prepare a Home Condition Survey by someone intending to buy a domestic property
1. Scope of the Home Condition Survey
The HCS is written so as to reflect property law in England and Wales. It is designed for lay customers who
want a professional opinion on the construction, defects and condition of the home they are thinking of
buying.
It is not:
A. A schedule of building works
B. A report on the cost of remedial works and repairs
C. An asbestos inspection, which may fall within the “Control of Asbestos in the Workplace Regulations
2002”
D. A valuation for secured lending or any other purpose
E. An opinion on the usefulness, marketability or attraction of the property or any part of it, including the
grounds and/or outbuildings
F. Designed for commercial property
2. Members Skills and Ability
A. In order to offer the HCS you must either :i.
hold the Level 4 Diploma in Home Inspection, or
ii.
hold the ABBE /PSSB Level 6 Diploma in Residential Surveying, or
iii.
hold the ABBE /PSSB Level 6 Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation, or
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iv.
have entered via the Direct Entry route for experienced residential surveyors with
membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
B. In addition, you must have sufficient knowledge of the locality in which you practice covering:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
construction types and techniques specific to that area (Common vernacular housing
styles, materials and construction techniques)
Environmental issues, including flooding, radon levels, historic and recent mining activity,
geographical features and soil conditions, major areas of potential contamination etc.
The location of the conservation areas and historic centres including an appreciation of
the socio/historical/industrial development in the area and how this has impacted on
domestic buildings
Local and regional government organisations and structures
3. Fit and Proper Requirements
You are required to provide us with a basic level criminal record disclosure on yourself, and inform us if you
have subsequently been convicted of a criminal offence in the UK or elsewhere. This must be less than 1 year
old at the time of application and renewed every 3 years.
We will contact you shortly before your criminal record disclosure becomes 3 years old to advise that you
must renew this. After the date that the disclosure becomes 3 years old, if you have not provided us with a
new disclosure that is less than 3 years old, your membership will be suspended until such time as we receive
a more recent disclosure.
4. Continuous Professional Development
You are required to carry out a minimum of 20 hours relevant CPD annually to ensure you remain competent
and up to date with the skill set required for the activities you offer. At least 10 hours of this CPD must be
formal.
i.
Formal CPD - structured learning that has clear and measurable learning objectives and
outcomes. This can be formal courses delivered face to face or online, but also includes technical
authorship and presentations
ii.
Informal CPD - is any self-managed learning including private study, on-the-job training,
attendance at informal seminars or events where the focus is on knowledge sharing
You must also maintain a written Personal Development Plan (PDP) and review it regularly to ensure it
remains relevant and meets any changes in your working practices. The PDP should be submitted when
requested and you should be able to evidence any CPD recorded in the document.
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5. Insurance
It is mandatory to have appropriate Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance if you are to
prepare Home Condition Surveys. Cover is required as follows:£1,000,000 for Professional Indemnity and
£1,000,000 for Public Liability
We provide cover to all surveyors who are members of our scheme on a report by report basis. As of 1st
August 2015, the cost of this insurance is £10 + VAT per report.
You can use a personal or employer’s Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance Policy, but you
must notify us if you are opting out of our cover and you must provide evidence when requested that you
have insurance of your own to the above levels. If you opt into using your own cover you must use this cover
for a minimum of 6 months.
If you use our cover or if you provide your own cover, you must keep all relevant documentation in a secure
and accessible format for 15 years from the date of the report. Even if you retire or stop surveying for any
reason, you will still have to respond to enquiries from the scheme of the insurer in the event that a report is
challenged. You will also be liable for any excess in the event that a claim succeeds against you.
You must notify us immediately regarding any event or action that could result in an Insurance claim.
6. Obligatory Licence
The SAVA Home Condition Survey is a product developed and owned by NES Ltd, which owns and operates
SAVA. Only SAVA members may use its name, format and content and must do so in electronic format using
our approved report writer.
You must use the specified format and description of service, without variation. Any departure from the
specified mandatory elements of the service will automatically mean that it is not a SAVA Home Condition
Survey and is therefore not covered by our insurance.
7. Undertaking the Inspection
A. By obtaining access to the home of another person in order to undertake an inspection, you may acquire
private information relating to the persons in occupation or property belonging to them, which has no
relevance to the inspection and the Home Condition Survey. Such information must not be recorded or
divulged to third parties, unless a criminal act is suspected
B. During the course of your work, you will be using information regarding the seller of the property which
may be classified as ‘Personal Data’ under the “Data Protection Act 1998”; therefore the relevant
provisions should be understood
C. Even if you are a specialist with regard to potentially harmful substances, materials or services, the Home
Condition Survey is not an Asbestos Inspection as defined in the “Control of Asbestos in the Workplace
Regulations 2002”. However, you must report if you see materials that you suspect may contain asbestos
D. You must know your limitations with regard to the types of property that fall outside the scope of your
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experience, declining any such instructions. If there is a lack of appropriate local knowledge which could
affect the survey, you must not take that instruction until you have attained sufficient local knowledge in
order to determine and allocate appropriate condition ratings on all elements of the building
E. You must possess all the necessary equipment and tools to undertake the survey in a satisfactory manner.
These will include:
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
vii.
viii.
ix.
x.
Binoculars at 10x magnification
Ladder of sufficient length to safely gain access to building elements which are 3m or less above
the surface on which the ladder is to rest
Measuring tape (note a hand held laser distance meter can be used but the surveyor must have a
measuring tape as well, for inspections where such a meter cannot be used)
Calibrated electronic moisture meter
Torch
Lifting equipment/crow bar
Pocket mirror
Plumb bob
Compass
Digital camera with optical zoom
F. This list is not intended to be definitive and you are encouraged to use additional items where they assist
with the inspection process
G. You must not be destructive or invasive when carrying out the inspection (i.e. “open-up” or cause any
significant permanent marking or damage to the building fabric), even if the client specifically requests it,
or the owner/occupier at the time of the inspection gives verbal permission for you to do so during the
survey
H. Where it becomes apparent that a complete inspection for the purposes of an HCS is impractical, you
must arrange a further inspection. If this is not possible, the failure to inspect various areas must be
stated in the report as a limitation of inspection
I. The inspection must be conducted only from within the property itself and any adjoining land to which
the public has access, using suitable vantage points to view as much of the property as possible
J. Features at high level such as flat roofs, gutters etc. will be viewed from a ladder so long as the height is
no more than 3m above the floor area
K. When undertaking the inspection internally, light items of furniture, possessions etc. may be moved with
the consent of the occupier. Where such consent is not forthcoming this must be recorded as a limitation
of inspection
L. When undertaking the inspection internally, fitted carpets, floor coverings, floorboards or insulation etc.
will not be moved and the contents of cupboards will not be emptied. The presence of such impediments
will be recorded as a limitation of inspection
M. You will not remove secure panels or undo electrical fittings but you will open concealed areas normally
opened by occupiers in normal everyday use
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N. You will not test the services, but where possible you will observe them in normal operation. If they are
turned off at the time of the survey, this must be stated in the report and recorded as a limitation of
inspection
O. When inspecting flats you should attempt to see a copy of the lease in order to determine the extent of
any repairing liabilities/service charge, but without delaying the inspection. The extent to which the
inspection is conducted beyond the immediate vicinity of the subject flat will be determined by the
extent of this liability. Where it is not possible to see a copy of the lease you will assume that the flat has
shared liability for all aspects of the structure, the common parts and services and conduct the
inspection accordingly
P. Access equipment must be used for the external survey of flat roofs, and other elements that cannot be
observed either from the ground, or from an upstairs window, always consistent with current Health and
Safety regulations and your own risk assessment
Q. When undertaking the inspection you must 'follow the trail ' to find the source and thereby extent of any
defect. The defect should be reported against the element from which it originates. Associated damages
should be reported against the affected building elements and cross referenced to the element where
the defect occurred
R. You must ‘follow the trail’ in relation to any deficiency you may identify. Where it is not possible to
determine the source of any defect through visual inspection alone you can call for further investigation
in the report, but this should not be a default position and only used when the cause of any defect
cannot be determined by visual inspection alone
S. You must make complete, accurate and comprehensive records of inspection/site notes and accurate and
comprehensive records of any desk study undertaken for each survey and maintain them securely for a
period not less than 15 years. The records must be of sufficient detail to enable an unconnected third
party to interpret them with the survey and must identify and explain all limitations of the inspection.
Nothing should be included in the report that is not referenced in the records of inspection/site notes.
All photographs, floor plans, sketches etc. included in the records of inspection/site notes must be clearly
annotated so that a third party can interpret them in future
T. All information should be marked with the property’s address and kept in a well-ordered and accessible
manual or electronic filing system
U. Records must also be kept of all queries communications, etc. relating to the property, which were raised
after completion of inspection and report. They should be clearly marked with the date and enough
information to enable interpretation of the nature and outcome of the communication to be determined
V. The source of any information that does not come from your own observations must be accurately
recorded
W. The identification of the construction, materials and condition of the property form the basis for the
assessment of the building and the Condition Ratings. Such descriptions must therefore be included in
the record of inspection. Condition Ratings must be based on the factual evidence seen or deduced
X. You should not include general comments regarding service charges or ground rents. However, you must
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appreciate the potential repairing liabilities that may exist and should record any that are identified
Y. Applying Condition Ratings
i.
The Condition Ratings are:
• Not Present at the property
• NI Not inspected
• No repair is currently needed. Normal maintenance should be carried out (Condition rating 1)
This rating must be used where there are no indications of present or potential defects that require the
undertaking of a specific repair
• Repairs or replacements are needed, but the Home Condition surveyor does not consider these to
be serious or urgent (Condition rating 2)
This rating must be used where repairs are required, but the defect is not considered to be serious or urgent
• There are defects which are either serious and/or require urgent repair or replacement (Condition
rating 3)
This rating must be used where the defect is of a serious nature or where immediate repairs are required
ii.




Z.
A serious defect is one, which is likely to:
compromise the structural integrity of the property; and/or
compromise the intended function of the building element; and/or
seriously affect the health and/or safety of the occupiers
would be of considerable cost to repair, “where considerable cost” is defined as being in excess of
2.5% of the reinstatement cost
When applying Condition Ratings, the SAVA Protocol must be used and recorded (See Appendix 1 –
Technical Guidance)
AA. When applying Condition Ratings to any of the “services that kill” if no recent test certificate is present
issued in accordance with the guidance from the relevant competent persons scheme, then a Condition
Rating 3 should be applied on the basis that further investigation is needed
BB. You must have a working knowledge of all Building Regulations that are relevant to the survey and when
the relevant regulations came into force
CC. In the case of flats, where the common areas fall under the “CAW Regulations”, you must assume that
there is a ‘duty-holder’ as defined in the Regulations, and that a Register of Asbestos and an effective
Management Plan are in place
DD. In the case of flats you will inspect those services that can be directly confirmed as serving the flat, but
will also inspect those services that are likely to be shared with other flats in a block/blocks. If on site it
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is impossible to determine which services do serve the flat, then this should be recorded as a limitation
of inspection
EE. Where it is possible to do so, the report will include a calculation of the reinstatement cost, which must
be produced using the latest edition of the Building Cost Information Service Rebuilding Costs Guide
(BCIS Guide), BCIS Rebuild Online – reinstatement costs for houses (more information may be obtained
from the BCIS www.bcis.co.uk). The Association of British Insurers (ABI), and/or the BCIS consumer
information on reinstatement costs must not be used. If BCIS Rebuild Online does not hold sufficient
data for a reinstatement cost to be determined, the reinstatement cost will not be calculated and the
client will need to obtain a manually calculated reinstatement cost from a suitably qualified person.
FF. You must understand and use the BCIS (or other approved guidance) currently in force
GG. Any vandalism, evidence of apparently unauthorised occupation and other irregularities found on site,
should be immediately reported to the appropriate authorities, the client and recorded in the site notes
HH. If you believe that there is a deliberate attempt to conceal defects, this should be noted in the report
II.
When carrying out the inspection you must have consideration to any risks to the property that could
originate from outside the boundaries of the subject property. You must be able to identify Japanese
Knotweed at all times of year and must report to their client that they have identified Japanese
Knotweed when:

It is within the boundary of the subject property irrespective of how far it is from any
buildings or structures
It is visible on any neighbouring properties within 7m of the boundary of the subject property.
For the avoidance of doubt a neighbouring property can be any property within 7 metres of the
boundary of the subject property and is not restricted to the immediately adjacent property.
When recording the presence or other wise of Knotweed the site notes and photographs should
together evidence: Locations from which you carried out a visual inspection of any neighbouring property
[note; neighbouring property should only by inspected from within the subject property
or from publicly accessible land]
 Any limitations that prevented a visual inspection (e.g. high fences, thick shrubs and
planting preventing access to the property boundary, etc.)
 Any plants that could be mistaken for Knotweed
8. Compiling the report
A. When compiling the report the following format should be adopted:i.
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Apply the condition rating from the drop down box. No free text is allowed here. To determine the
condition rating you must use the SAVA Protocol below and you must record the steps in the file
notes so that if ever challenged you can recall your thought process
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ii.
For sections D,E and F in the Description box you should describe the element (what it is made from
etc.). The ‘drop down’ selections are there to help write the report. You do not have to use them
and, except for the very simplest of properties, they will require editing and expanding
iii.
In the Justification for Rating Box you must tell the client why you have allocated the chosen
condition rating
iv.
It is outside the scope of the report to give the client advice on how to remedy the defect or
deficiency you have discovered. However, a well written report will be a report that the client can
understand and could give to a third party, for instance a builder, for them to provide a quote
B. All information and comment in the report should be kept concise and to the point. This is so that:
i.
ii.
iii.
The whole report is concise in fact
To avoid confusing the client by using technical terms which can be incomprehensible and off-putting
to a non technical person
To avoid giving the client advice on how to remedy any defect
C. When compiling the report you should, wherever possible, use photographs to illustrate features, issues
or defects you want to bring to the attention of your client
D. Where it is not possible to inspect any aspect or part of the building, this must be recorded at the
beginning of the relevant section, making it clear to the reader what could not be inspected and why it
was not possible to do so within the scope of the inspection (if necessary referring to the description of
service so that the reader is clear)
E. When entering information against each element, the information should be in the following order:
A. The description (construction and location) of the element
i. The justification for the condition rating (this will explain what the defect/repair is, but note that you
are not specifying the actual repair needed)
ii. The condition rating
F. When a problem, such as damp, exists in more than one element, you should record the defect in the
main element, but cross reference that element to other elements in the report. (e.g. D4:“the main
walls are affected by dampness which is rising from the ground…..Please see also Section E3” and E3:
“The internal walls are affected by dampness. Please see also Section D4”)
G. When completing the report, the default position should be to start with and edit the given ‘pick lists’ in
the system rather than writing paragraphs from scratch
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9. Appendix 1 – Technical Guidance
A. General Background Information
(i)
An attempt should be made to obtain the following basic information from the occupier/seller,
before the inspection commences:
(a) how long has the seller lived in/owned the property
(b) structural alterations/extensions/additions (including approximate date, planning permission
and building regulations approval)
(c) any known major structural repairs (such as underpinning)
(d) known defects and problems
(e) knowledge of any party wall issues
(f) location of concealed traps or hatches
(g) recent repairs, whether executed by professionals or DIY
(h) guarantees or warranties (such as in respect of timber and damp treatment)
(i) age of service installations
(j) maintenance records for central heating boilers
(k) drainage (such as if private type and the usual emptying arrangements)
(l) ownership/maintenance of shared boundaries/access areas
(m) rights of way
(n) highway adoption
(o) any history of flooding or rainwater ingress
(p) if services are connected or have been turned off
(q) evidence that gas or oil appliances have been regularly serviced
(r) the current EPC
(s) obtain consent to check normal operation of water and electricity systems, and to switch
heating systems on for the duration of the inspection
(ii)
Block plans are not required in the survey, but are useful to supplement site notes
(iii)
The survey should not include general comments regarding service charges or ground rents.
However, you must appreciate the potential repairing liabilities that may exist and should record
any that are identified
(iv)
You will apply your own knowledge of building construction to the inspection and subsequent
analysis required to decide upon Condition Ratings. You should bear in mind any or all of the
following to arrive at a Condition Rating:
(a) refer to condition only, not to reflect purely cosmetic issues that have no effect on longevity
or performance
(b) reflect any detrimental effect on other building elements
(c) reflect performance
(d) reflect on current building regulations and established best practice in building construction
and maintenance and where there is a ‘deficiency’ in construction assess if that deficiency is
likely to lead to a defect (note – if in the opinion of the surveyor a ‘deficiency’ in itself does
not necessitate a repair, this can be reflected in the condition rating applied)
(e) compare ‘like with like’, e.g. not the life expectancy of a flat felted roof with a pitched, tiled
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(f)
(g)
(h)
(i)
(j)
(v)
one
assume that normal regular maintenance will be undertaken in future
be consistent
follow generally accepted building practice
not reflect differences in product quality unless performance and life expectancy are
seriously impaired
because buildings are complex structures comprising many different interacting elements,
defects in one element will usually have an impact on others. It is therefore not enough just
to analyse defective building elements in isolation; you should also consider the
consequences that may have followed from an obvious defect, and must follow the trail
Very few older buildings remain as they were originally constructed. You should be particularly
vigilant with regard to any works or alterations which may have changed the performance of the
original design, detail, or building material (e.g. patios covering air-bricks, the application of
impervious external claddings, replaced facia boards etc.)
You must appreciate that there may be additional technical and legal issues to consider when
inspecting and reporting upon older buildings
Many older buildings may be formally protected being “scheduled”, “listed” or situated in a
Conservation Area. You must understand the implications of these on a property being protected
(vi)
When considering risk to the property you should consider risk of damage from standing trees,
and from trees that have fallen
(vii)
You should bear in mind that there may have been alterations to other sites and grounds adjacent
to any relevant water course since the last time flooding was experienced
(viii) If there is no Asbestos Register in the common part of a block of flats, you should state this.
However, it is the duty of the legal advisors to confirm the identity of the duty-holder, the
presence, or otherwise, of an Asbestos Register and to advise whether or not there is a current
Management Plan in place, together with the level of any associated financial burdens for the flat
owner
B. Inspecting the property, assessing condition and applying Condition Ratings
When applying Condition Ratings the SAVA protocol must be used, this is illustrated by the flowchart
shown below. The notes that follow the flowchart are intended to provide additional guidance where
there is any doubt regarding inspection or applying Condition Ratings.
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(i)
Chimneys
(a) Include stacks, pots, flaunching, pointing to the stack, support to stacks, chimney breast in
roof space, flashings between stacks and roof covering
(b) Chimneys are exposed to the weather, and flue gases may have had a detrimental effect on
them
(c) Access limitation can add significantly to repair costs and should be considered when
determining if a Condition Rating 3 is appropriate
(d) Inspecting Chimneys:
• normally done from ground level using binoculars, although if an opportunity exists to
view chimneys from other vantage points this should be taken
• wherever possible, the inspection should be from all sides, noting that the inspection
should only be from the property itself and any adjoining land to which the public has
access
• always note construction methods and materials, including flashings, pots and
flaunchings, party stacks, etc.
• always check for support, any damp penetration, etc. inside the roof void
(ii)
Roofs (external)
(a) Access limitations can add significantly to repair costs and should be considered when
determining if a Condition Rating 3 is appropriate
(b) Inspecting the Roof:
• The default position will be to gain as close as contact with the roof as possible to inspect
it. However, it is acknowledged that this is likely to normally be done from ground level
using binoculars, although if an opportunity exists to view roofs from other vantage points
this should be taken (see also comments relating to guttering and facias below)
• wherever possible, the inspection should be from all sides, noting that the inspection
should only be from the property itself and any adjoining land to which the public has
access
• evaluate surrounding properties for comparison
• use a ladder to inspect flat roofs if this is possible and safe
• always note construction method and materials, including parapets and raised party walls,
valleys, dormers, domes and roof lights, overhang at eaves, service pipes and ventilation
apertures
• check for damp penetration; nail sickness, etc. in the roof void
(iii)
Roofs (internal)
(a) Where there is no Sarking Felt or other secondary barrier against water penetration, check
for defects to the roof covering, such as laminating or spalling tiles/slates.
(b) Inspecting the Roof void:
• the default position is that this will involve physical entry and access to all parts of the
roof void
• where there are limitations of access i.e. where the access hatch is not large enough, or
access would be dangerous, or where there is a risk of damage to the building, etc., a
head-and-shoulders inspection should be undertaken where possible
• all restrictions that prevent an inspection must be noted and reported
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• view without light/torch to detect holes/daylight shining through
• when entering the roof void care must always be taken to ensure personal safety and
prevent damage to the building (e.g. do not step or put weight on covered joists or any
other parts that are not visible and apparently safe)
• stored items should not be moved
• do not roll back or otherwise disturb insulation
• note the condition of chimney breasts
• note evidence of nail ‘sickness’/deteriorating tile ‘nibs’
• note spalling tiles/slates
• note any water penetration, condensation, presence of moisture etc.
• note poor support to water tanks
• note construction of ceilings, if it is possible to do so without disturbing insulation
(c) For flats, the roof space should be entered and inspected as for houses, where the entrance
to the roof space is in the flat and the roof only extends over the flat to which the survey
applies
(d) For flats where access to the roof space is in the common parts, a head and shoulders
inspection should be undertaken
(iv)
Gutters and rainwater fittings
(a) Note the weather conditions at time of inspection
(b) Where possible, ask the current home occupiers if there are any problems with the gutters
(c) The default position will be to gain close contact with gutters, facia boards etc. in order to
inspect them. However, it is acknowledged that in many instances inspection will be from
ground level using binoculars. If this is the case where an opportunity exists to view gutters
etc. from other vantage points this should be taken (e.g. from an upstairs window etc.)
(d) Wherever possible, the inspection should be from all sides of the property, noting that the
inspection should only be from the property itself and any adjoining land to which the public
has access
(e) Use extreme care when place ladders against fascias or adjacent to gutters to avoid risk of
damage
(f) Consider using a pocket mirror behind cast iron downpipes if rusting/ cracks are suspected.
View from underneath, as close to wall as possible
(g) Always note any discolouration, deposited salts, etc. to walls and fascias, hidden fixings (e.g.
used with ogee gutters), form of drainage/ discharge
(h) Check the condition of the underfelt and note any deterioration due to exposure to UV light
etc
(v)
Walls
(a) Walls include external walls (including non-load bearing), wall frames or other structures,
wall foundations, pointing, renders and other coverings and coatings, cavity ties, lintels,
masonry sills, insulation (cavity and external)
(b) Inspection is:
• normally done from ground level using binoculars, though if an opportunity exists to view
higher levels from other vantage points this should be taken
• wherever possible, the inspection should be from all sides, noting that the inspection
should only be from the property itself and any adjoining land to which the public has
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•
•
•
•
(vi)
access
note anything which limits visual inspection (presence of wall climbing creepers, hanging
baskets, close proximity to neighbouring property etc.)
check wall thicknesses at window and openings
check construction and other detail (insulation etc.) in roof void where access is possible
record all cracking found during the inspection, even if later, after due consideration, the
cracking is not considered to be a defect in need of repair
Windows
(a) Include shutters and shutter furniture and security fixtures and locks if they exist
(b) Inspection:
• upper windows will normally be viewed from ground level using binoculars, though if an
opportunity exists to view higher levels from other vantage points this should be taken
• wherever possible, the inspection should be from all sides, noting that the inspection
should only be from the property itself and any adjoining land to which the public has
access
• access limitations which could add to repair costs should be noted and should be
considered when determining if a Condition Rating 3 is appropriate
• inspect external surrounds, i.e. lintels, cills, jambs as well as frames and glazing
• inside, open and close a sample of windows to test that they work properly
• test for damp around window openings
(vii)
Doors
(a) Include patio doors
(b) Normally inspect doors by opening and closing them, view frames and surrounding walls
while doing this. Inspect frame and threshold in both open and closed position
(c) Always note construction method and materials and any locked doors
(d) Test for damp inside surrounds at base/threshold
(viii) Other outside detail
(a) This category includes fascias, barge boards and soffits, eaves ventilation if through eaves
construction, decorative/ornamental features even if non-wood materials are used for these
parts
(b) Inspection is:
• normally done from ground level using binoculars, though if an opportunity exists to view
higher levels from other vantage points this should be taken
• wherever possible, the inspection should be from all sides, noting that the inspection
should only be from the property itself and any adjoining land to which the public has
access
• note anything which limits visual inspection (presence of wall climbing creepers, hanging
baskets etc.)
• report if non wood material is used for any feature
(c) Access limitations can add significantly to repair costs and should be considered when
determining if a Condition Rating 3 is appropriate
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(ix)
Ceilings
(a) Ceilings include ceiling joists, covings and ornamental mouldings
(b) Inspection is:
• normally done from the floor of the room, except where visual indication indicates that
closer inspection is needed (e.g. possible damp staining)
(x)
Internal walls, stairs, partitions etc.
(a) Include party walls, and other stone or masonry work in the roof space except chimney
breast, partition walls, internal faces to external walls, skirtings and dado rails, lintels where
they exist in internal partitions, dry lining
(b) Carry out a visual inspection, coupled with tapping to identify construction and to detect
loose plaster, (which is reported in this Section even if the main fault lies with external wall
etc.)
(c) Test for damp around windows and doors
(d) Open and close internal doors to detect movement/settlement after alterations
(e) The default position is physical entry of under stairs cupboards. Where there are limitations
of access this should be noted
(f) Test fixings and spacing of banisters/rails and depth and rise of stair treads
(g) Note any unusual gaps between skirting and floor
(xi)
Floors
(a) Include the under floor structure of timber floors, floor boards, fixed floor coverings, damp
proof membranes, screeds, under floor ventilation, thermal insulation
(b) Normal Inspection:
• includes inspection of sub-floor voids where practical
• where fitted carpets exist these should be left in situ. ‘Wall-to-wall’ carpets and rugs,
which are not fitted or fixed, should be lifted in corners, if practical, without moving
furniture/items.
• includes checking the floor’s ‘spring’
• includes checking for damp in floor
• includes recording any constraints to visual inspection (presence of furniture, carpets,
laminate floor coverings, hardboard over floor boards etc.)
• includes noting the design/construction and materials
(xii)
Fireplaces, Chimney breasts and flues
(a) Include fireplaces and hearths, closed off fireplaces, chimney breasts in roof spaces and
rooms (present and removed), external flues
(b) Where old fireplaces are kept as ‘features’ only, report accordingly and do not comment on
their functionality or possibility for future use as fireplaces
(c) Note also that asbestos boarding is commonly used around fireplaces, stoves, etc. If a
potential asbestos containing material is observed, report on this
(d) Report on balanced flues if used
(e) Normal Inspection:
• includes checking that there is continuity throughout the chimney structure, (tap on
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chimney breasts to identify structure)
• includes checking ceilings and walls adjacent to possibly unsupported chimney breasts for
any signs of stress
• includes checking for dampness, noting in particular, areas around the base of the
chimney breast at the junction with the lowest floor. Hearths at ground floor, at the
junction of the chimney breast and the roof covering, and along the lines of flues serving
lower rooms also need to be checked
(xiii) Built-in fittings
(a) Include fitted kitchen cupboards and worktops, sinks and waste appliances and fitted
wardrobes. Exclude kitchen white goods. Where a kitchen is ‘freestanding’ report that this is
the case and advise that the purchaser checks the kitchen units are included in the purchase
price
(b) For built-in fitments do not comment on the original quality and/or your view on the
adequacy of the fittings. However, actual, non-cosmetic defects in the units that affect the
way they work, should be reported
(c) Open sufficient drawers and doors to determine how well the fittings fulfil their function
(d) Always inspect the cupboard under the sink
(e) You should not empty cupboards. However, where a possible defect is suspected, the
seller/occupier should be asked to empty contents if possible
(f) Note anything which limits visual inspection (including cupboard backs which prevent access
to walls etc.)
(xiv) Bathroom fittings
(a) Include baths, hand basins, shower cubicles and fittings, WCs and cisterns, bidets, splash
backs, seals around fittings
(b) Do not comment on the original quality and/or adequacy of the fittings. However, actual
non-cosmetic defects in the units, that affect the way they work, should be reported
(c) Note that if one part of a bathroom suite needs replacement, matches may be difficult and
expensive to find
(d) Turn on all taps and showers to check that there is a water supply
(e) Note and report if water is turned off
(f) Do not remove bath/other panels
(xv)
Reporting on Damp
(a) Damp does not have a category of its own but should be reported on in the element where
the Home Condition surveyor determines that moisture is present
(b) These notes cover all forms of dampness, including rising and penetrating damp, plumbing
and appliance leaks, and condensation. All should be reported where noted
(c) Moisture can only be determined by visual inspection, touch or by interpreting a surface
reading taken using a moisture meter (as a destructive investigation involving sampling of
building materials is outside the scope of the survey)
(d) You must not restrict their own checks and inspection on the assumption that guarantees or
warranties exist
(e) Internal inspection:
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• the default position is that a moisture meter will be used at 1m intervals on external
walls, except where furniture etc. prevents access, this should be noted
• for vulnerable areas take meter readings at different levels on the wall to determine the
profile of any moisture, including at ceiling level
• do not omit checking internal partition/party walls, which are, or may be, built off the
ground/over-site concrete
• check window and external door surrounds
• check airbricks or other ventilation apertures
• do not omit the checking of floors, and note any limitations to the inspection due to fixed
floor coverings
(f)
External inspection:
• should involve checking the position and material used for the damp proof course and its
distance from ground level
• where access is restricted (by vegetation etc.) this should be noted
• check airbricks or other ventilation apertures
• where there is any evidence to suggest that there may be a dry rot attack; e.g. fruiting
body, spores or mycelium, are observed, you must recommend further investigations
If you know that guarantees and/or warranties for work undertaken to minimize or prevent damp
exist, their presence should not alter the inspection methodology
(xvi) Electrical Services
(a) This includes wiring circuits, fuse boards, consumer units, electrical fittings, and permanently
fixed appliances associated with the electrical system
(b) Tests are not required, but visible defects must be noted
(c) Light switches should be turned on and off
(d) The presence or otherwise of a test certificate or authorised notification regarding the
system should be reported
(e) It is normal to carry out visual inspection on the point of entry of the electrical supply,
including subsidiary switches to other parts of the property such as to the garage or other
outbuildings, fuse boards/consumer units, switches, sockets, visible wiring and residual
circuit breakers. Check for old cables and fittings, broken and loose fittings, signs of
poor/untidy installations, earth bonding
(xvii) Gas/Oil services
(a) This includes the gas supply where it enters the property, the gas meter, distribution
pipework, permanent fittings and appliances, storage tanks (LPG or oil)
(b) The suitability, efficiency and safety in use of gas or oil installations including appliances such
as boilers and fires, cannot be assessed without appropriate tests by a ‘competent person’
(c) The report should identify if there are current gas safety certificates relating to all gas
installations at the property. If there is no current certificate relating to an appliance
installation, the advice given is that a ‘competent person’ should be instructed to check and
test the installation and appliances with a view to issuing the relevant certificates
(d) Normal Inspection:
• look to see if any alterations have been undertaken since the appropriate safety
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certificate or Building Regulations certificate was issued, any apparent visual defects and
appliances not covered by the certificates referred to above should be noted
• You should also note the presence, or otherwise, of the boiler manufacturer’s
instructions, service details and/or a log book
(xviii) Water services
(a) Includes the utility company stop valve, supply pipe where it enters the building, visible
distribution pipework within the property, external pipework and taps, water softeners, cold
and hot water storage tanks, expansion tanks, insulation to these tanks where appropriate,
and the overflow system
(b) Normal Inspection:
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
• carry out visual inspection of exposed pipe-work, tanks, stopcock, etc.
• tests are not required; but you should check appliances and fittings while in normal
operation. This means turning taps on and off and flushing toilets etc., after seeking
permission. The report should indicate those taps/appliances which were not checked
• check overflow pipes for all required tanks and cisterns
• check insulation/lagging where required
• check arrangements for expansion
Note any constraints to normal inspection (e.g. if the airing cupboard is full of stored items, if
an empty property has been drained down, or the water is turned off at the stopcock etc.
N.B. it should not be turned on). These facts must be noted. Note the position of tanks and
stopcock, and any alterations/ additions to the original installation
If the property has a private water supply this should be noted
If anything is noticed which is in obvious contravention of a known regulation, it should be
noted
Where lead water service pipe-work is identified, you should recommend referral to current
health and safety information available from water authorities
If a property has been drained down, or the water is turned off at the stopcock etc., it should
not be turned on. This fact must be noted
(xix) Heating
(a) Includes the main heating source, heat distribution pipework, circulation pumps and valves,
heat emitters, expansion vessels which are only linked to the heating system, and ventilation
for heating system where required
(b) Normal Inspection:
• visual inspection of all accessible parts of the system
• noting partial systems (where not all of the property is covered)
• note, where appropriate, if records of regular inspection exist
(c) You should note if the system is switched on during the visit, and if not, record this as a
limitation of the inspection
(d) If the heating in only switched on just before the inspection, it is unlikely that its ability to
bring room temperatures to an acceptable level can be ascertained. This should be noted as
a limitation to the Report
(e) You should record the presence, or absence, of the boiler manufacturer’s instructions,
service details and/or a log book
(f) Any secondary sources of heating should also be noted
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(xx)
Drainage
(a) Includes above and below ground foul and grey water drainage, gullies, inspection chambers,
rodding access points, cess pits and septic tanks
(b) Normal Inspection:
• no testing is done - the inspection is visual only, though if possible flushing toilets and/or
running taps will be observed via open inspection chamber(s)
• the default position is that inspection chamber covers will be lifted unless you determine
that they or their surroundings are likely to suffer any damage as a result of the lifting,
and/or that it would not be safe to do so and/or that the chamber is not reasonably
accessible and/or that the chamber is outside the curtilage of the property
• where there are limitations preventing lifting this should be noted
• you will note construction methods and materials of pipe-work as well as gullies and
inspection chambers
• you will report any vigorous vegetation close to sealed gullies, or exceptional nettle
growth next to cess pools, which may indicate leakage. You should consider whether a
further investigation by way of a drains test is required, but only when there is a clear
indication, or local knowledge suggests, that a problem may exist
(c) Soakaways will not be available for inspection and are therefore outside the scope of the
survey
(d) Blockages by leaves and other debris is counted as a defect and should be noted
(e) Private drainage should be noted including the type of disposal. Private drainage that is
shared with other properties or outside the boundary should also be noted
(xxi) ‘Grounds’, permanent ‘Outhouses’ etc.
(a) Include garages, outside toilets, greenhouses, summerhouses/follies, tool sheds and
workshops, old air raid shelters, substantial animal housing/cages, barns, conservatories,
paths and driveways, the presence of ponds or other water features
(b) Normal inspection will include:
• a walk around the extent of the grounds
• visual inspection of external and internal permanent buildings where safe to do so and
access is available
• viewing from ground level using binoculars, although if an opportunity exists to view roofs
from other vantage points this should be taken
• wherever possible, the inspection should be from all sides, noting that the inspection
should only be from the property itself and any adjoining land to which the public has
access
• use a ladder to inspect roofs if this is possible and safe, and where the building is of a type
where a watertight fabric is likely to be important
(c) Describe the type, construction, age, dimensions and any obvious defects of Garages which
can reasonably be identified by a brief, visual inspection but do not comment on if a car will
fit
(d) Note and report if a garage cannot be used to park a vehicle (due to inadequate access etc.)
(e) Note and report any inappropriate use (e.g. if an outbuilding is being used inappropriately as
a habitable room)
(f) Note and report any health and safety issues
(g) Note and report any issue that might lead to any future disputes
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(h) As Conservatories are considered to be an important part of the property, you should report
if the planned use may be inappropriate and should consider how they are attached to the
main building and if any repair to the structure, glazing or flooring is likely and if there is any
possible deficiency in the construction
(xxii) Conservatories
For the purposes of preparing a Home Condition Survey, a conservatory is a structure attached to
the property and at least ¾ of its roof and at least half of the external walls are glazed and




Is built at ground level
Is less than 30 square metres in floor area
Is separated from the house by external quality walls, doors or windows
Has an independent heating system with separate temperature and on/off controls
Any other structure should be classed as either:

an extension, where the structure is permanent, the space is evidently used as a living space
(not just for storage etc.) and the glazing element is less than described etc.
or as an outbuilding and covered in section G
If the structure does not conform to the definition of Conservatories on the Planning Portal
(http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/ ) then it should be flagged up for the conveyance under section C1;
Issues for the Conveyancer; Planning and other permission.
(a) Note drainage from and around the conservatory (particularly if any drainage channels are
blocked by paths, patios or flower beds etc.)
(b) Check and note the junction of the roof of the conservatory with the main building
(c) Check and note the standard of the conservatory frame
(d) Check and note the standard of the joints between the glazing units and the frame
(e) Note if any permanent heating is installed
(f) Note the location and dimensions of the conservatory, and if necessary draw it to the
attention of the legal advisor for further investigation into any necessary planning or other
consents (Section C)
(g) When reporting the condition of the conservatory this should be done as a free text entry
under Section G
(xxiii) Porches:For the purposes of preparing a Home Condition Survey, an external porch is a small entrance area with
doors to an outside space and a door to the main property which is outside the footprint of the main
property or an infill area where the main front door is recessed back from the footprint of the main
property. Any other feature should be described as an entrance lobby etc. and not dealt with as a
separate structure.
As with conservatories, if the structure does not conform to the permitted development for porches on
the Planning Portal (http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/ ) then it should be flagged up for the conveyance
under section C1; Issues for the Conveyancer; Planning and other permission.
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(xxiv) Boundaries, Fences, retaining walls etc.
(a) Note any matters relating to ownership of boundary walls, fences, etc., also report serious
defects or matters, which have an impact on the safety of able bodied occupants
(b) Report on common use areas in blocks of flats, such as staircases, car parking areas,
communal garages and forecourts
(c) The condition of retaining walls should be determined and noted
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10. Appendix 2 – Home Condition Survey Terms of Engagement for the client
Home Condition Survey
Before instructing a surveyor you should understand the “terms” under which the report is prepared so you have
a clear understanding of the level of service you are buying. The “terms” of the report are set out below.
To confirm you understand the “terms” of the service, please sign two copies of this letter and return one to the
surveyor. Please keep a copy for your own records.
Introduction and terms on which this report is prepared
When you buy a home it is recommended to have an independent report on the condition of the property. The
Home Condition Survey is produced by a surveyor who is a member of the SAVA Scheme. The surveyor will
provide an objective opinion about the condition of the property which you, as the buyer, will be able to rely on
and use.
The Surveyor
The surveyor is a member of the SAVA Scheme, which is operated by National Energy Services Ltd, and has passed
an assessment of skills and holds one of the below:
 Level 4 Diploma in Home Inspection
 Level 6 Diploma in Residential Surveying
 Level 6 Diploma in Residential Surveying and Valuation
 Associate/Member of RICS whose professional competency has been approved by SAVA
In addition the surveyor will:
 have insurance that provides cover if the surveyor is negligent
 follow the scheme and product rules required by SAVA
 lodge the report with SAVA for regular monitoring of competence
 have a complaints procedure which includes an escalation route to SAVA
 have had a criminal records check undertaken
The Inspection
The surveyor must follow the inspection standards and code of conduct set by SAVA. A copy of these can be
found on www.myhomeconditionsurvey.co.uk.
The Home Condition Survey is in a standard format and is based on terms which set out what to expect of both
the surveyor and the Home Condition Survey. Neither you nor the surveyor can amend these terms for the survey
to be covered by the SAVA scheme. However, the surveyor may provide you with services beyond the report.
These services are not covered by these terms nor by the Scheme and so must be covered by a separate contract.
What this report tells you
This report will provide you with the following information:
 The construction and condition of the property on the date of inspection
 Whether more enquiries or investigations are needed
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 The reinstatement cost for insurance purposes derived from data supplied by the Building Cost
Information Service (BCIS), except where:
o the property is very large or historic
o where it incorporates special features
o if it is of a less usual construction not covered by BCIS data
In these circumstances a specialist would be needed to assess the reinstatement cost.
The main aim of this report is to inform you of:
 Any serious defects or issues that may need attention and may affect your decision to buy the property
 Areas that may require further investigation to prevent damage to the structure of the building
 Matters that should be referred to your legal adviser for further investigation
The report applies “condition ratings” to the major parts of the main building. The report will not provide a
condition rating to outbuildings. The condition rating applied will be; 1, 2, 3 or NI (not inspected - see “How the
Inspection is carried out” below).
Condition rating definition
Condition Rating 1
 No repair is currently needed. Normal maintenance must be carried out.
Condition Rating 2
 Repairs or replacements are needed but the surveyor does not consider these to be serious or urgent.
Condition Rating 3
 These are defects which are serious and/or require urgent repair/replacement or where the surveyor
feels that further investigation is required. For example, where the surveyor has reason to believe repair
work may be needed but an invasive investigation is required for confirmation. A serious defect is one
which could lead to rapid deterioration in the property or one which is likely to cost more than 2.5% of
the reinstatement cost to put right.
You may wish to obtain quotes for additional work prior to exchange of contract where a condition rating 2
or 3 is given.
What this report will not tell you:
This report will not tell you about:
 The value of the property
 Matters that might affect value (such as the location of the property or the availability of public transport
and other facilities)
 Any minor defects that would not normally affect your decision to buy
 How to undertake any repairs to remedy any defects or deficiencies
 The cost of any repair work
 The efficiency of any services installed or any features that could only be effectively monitored over a
longer period of time
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If you need advice on subjects that are not covered by the Home Condition Survey, this must be arranged
separately. The report is not an asbestos inspection under the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
What, when and how is the inspection carried out?
You should understand that when the surveyor carries out the inspection, the property does not belong to you,
but to a third party.
The surveyor undertakes a full visual and non invasive inspection (including loft spaces, cellars, all where the
access is safe). The surveyor will look at the inside and outside of the main building, all permanent outbuildings,
grounds and areas in common or shared use and the parts of the gas, electricity, water and drainage services that
can be seen.
The surveyor will carry out the inspection from all vantage points possible, but cannot:
 Report on leisure facilities or equipment
 Report on temporary outbuildings
 Trespass on adjacent private property
 Walk on any sort of roof
 Access areas that are more than 3m above the floor level – such features will be inspected from ground
level or from a vantage point within the building
 Access areas that are less than 3m above the floor level if, in the opinion of the surveyor, it would not be
safe to do so
 Take up or move carpets, floor coverings, floorboards or insulation etc.
 Move heavy furniture or remove contents of cupboards
 Move smaller items of furniture etc. without the express consent of the occupier
 Force open or remove secure panels or the fabric of the building
 Undertake a specialist test of any of the services, although where possible they will be observed in normal
operation, or turn on any services that are not connected at the time of the inspection. The surveyor
cannot comment on the efficiency of any services or renewable installations (such as photovoltaic
panels)
 Comment on sound insulation or noise of any sort
The surveyor will curtail the inspection if he/she feels it unsafe to continue for any reason (including the risk of
damage to the property itself, risks to any occupiers or visitors and risks to the safety of the surveyor etc.)
The surveyor will check for damp in vulnerable areas using a moisture meter.
Flats
The surveyor will carry out a non invasive inspection at the level of detail set out above for the main walls and
roof over the flat. The surveyor inspects the shared access to the flat and the area where car parking or the
garage for the flat are located. The surveyor will not: Inspect the rest of the block to this level of detail
 Inspect shared areas or services to other flats in the block
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


Access the roof space unless the access is within the flat and subject to the restrictions outlined above
Comment on shared drains, fire or security alarms
Comment on any terms of the lease
Property Risks
The surveyor assumes that the home is not built with nor contains hazardous material and is not built on
contaminated land. However, if any materials are found during the inspection which may contain hazardous
substances, if anything is indentified which may damage the property, or if the surveyor finds evidence to suggest
any contamination of the land, this will be reported and you may wish to seek further advice.
Risks to people
The surveyor will report on matters that may have existed for a long time and cannot reasonably be replaced or
modified but may still, in the opinion of the surveyor, present a risk to occupiers or visitors.
Your rights and responsibilities
The report is for you to use and your legal advisor to use but the surveyor accepts no liability if you or anyone else
chooses to pass this report to someone else.
Upon instructing the surveyor you have a 14 day cooling off period; however, if you request that the surveyor
carry out the inspection during this 14 day period, you will be liable to pay the full fee.
I confirm that I have read and understood the terms of engagement.
Signed
Date
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11. Appendix 3 – Disciplinary Process Tariff
Severity
Tariff
element
Performance Criteria
Minor
Serious
Initial Action
Secondary Action
Personal and Professional standards
1.
All information given to the Scheme in
respect of your membership should be
accurate and complete
X
Termination of Membership
2.
You should not attempt to transfer your
Membership, or use of it , to another
person
X
Termination of Membership
3.
You should act professionally and with
integrity, honesty, trustworthiness and be
open and transparent in your dealings
X
Co-operate with scheme
investigations and evidence
appropriate work practices within 3
days. If the allegation is serious, we
reserve the right to suspend
immediately pending investigation
Failure to respond to initial sanctions
results in suspension for a maximum of 28
days after which time non response will
result in termination of your membership
4.
Recognise the limits of your competence
and keep your skills up to date
X
Respond to any specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate improvement within
28 days
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
5.
Work with reasonable skill and care
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
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Severity
Tariff
element
Performance Criteria
6.
Have a ‘Duty of Care’
7.
Treat all customers’ information as private
and confidential. You should contribute to
the security of their property or
information relating to their property
8.
Minor
Serious
Secondary Action
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
X
Co-operate with scheme
investigations and evidence
appropriate work practices within 3
days
Failure to respond to initial sanctions
results in suspension for a maximum of 28
days after which time non response will
result in termination of your membership
Do not accept gifts or inducements which
may be perceived to affect your judgement
X
Co-operate with scheme
investigations and evidence
appropriate work practices within 3
days
Failure to respond to initial sanctions
results in suspension for a maximum of 28
days after which time non response will
result in termination of your membership
9.
Do not use your position improperly.
Clearly indicate any perceived or actual
conflict of interest with any parties
connected with the production of the
Home Condition Survey
X
Co-operate with scheme
investigations and evidence
appropriate work practices within 3
days
Failure to respond to initial sanctions
results in suspension for a maximum of 28
days after which time non response will
result in termination of your membership
10.
Assist the Scheme in any disciplinary
enquiry that it may decide to hold within 3
days
X
Suspension with requirement to co- Failure to respond to initial sanctions
operate with scheme investigations results in continued suspension for a
maximum of 28 days after which time non
response will result in termination of your
membership
Filename:
Reference:
Date:
Version:
X
Initial Action
Product Rules for the SAVA HCS
Reg 73
1/7/2015
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31
Severity
Performance Criteria
Tariff
element
Minor
Serious
Initial Action
Secondary Action
11.
You must comply with all Scheme Rules
X
Suspension with requirement to cooperate with scheme investigations
and evidence appropriate work
practices prior to reinstatement
and a reinstatement fee
Failure to respond to initial sanctions
results in continued suspension for a
maximum of 28 days after which time non
response will result in termination of your
membership
12.
You must not do anything that damages the
reputation of the Scheme
X
Co-operate with scheme
investigations and evidence
appropriate work practices within 3
days
Failure to respond to initial sanctions
results in suspension for a maximum of 28
days after which time non response will
result in termination of your membership
13.
Continuous repeated suspensions,
whatever their cause
X
Termination of membership
X
Co-operate with scheme
investigations and evidence
appropriate work practices within 3
days
Failure to respond to initial sanctions
results in suspension for a maximum of 28
days after which time non response will
result in termination of your membership
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 7 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days by calling for
another audit. This may be subject
to a fee
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
Health and Safety
14.
You must ensure your actions do not
endanger the health and safety of others
and must abide by instructions given by a
responsible person when on site
Inspection, Reporting and Other Operational Requirements
15.
Filename:
Reference:
Date:
Version:
You must undertake a full, methodical
inspection and must make and keep, full,
accurate and legible records
X
Product Rules for the SAVA HCS
Reg 73
1/7/2015
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32
Severity
Tariff
element
Performance Criteria
Minor
Serious
Initial Action
Secondary Action
16.
You must securely maintain all records for
15 years, making sure they are readily
accessible on request
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 7 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days by calling for
another audit. This may be subject
to a fee
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
17.
You must abide by the rules and
conventions when inspecting the property
and preparing the report
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days. This may be subject
to a fee
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days. This may be subject
to a fee
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) Requirements
18.
You must provide evidence of your CPD on
a yearly basis or when requested by the
Scheme
Specific operational requirements
19.
Filename:
Reference:
Date:
Version:
The Home Condition Survey must only be
based on factual evidence either seen or
appropriately deduced
Product Rules for the SAVA HCS
Reg 73
1/7/2015
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Severity
Performance Criteria
Tariff
element
20.
The inspection must not be destructive or
invasive
Minor
Serious
Initial Action
Secondary Action
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days. This may be subject
to a fee
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
Customer Enquiries and Complaints
21.
You must have your own formal complaints
procedure which is based on a process of
escalation, starting with attempts to
resolve the issue by you
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days. We may charge a
fee related to this
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
22.
If a customer complaint is escalated to the
Scheme all required documents and
information is to be provided to the
Scheme within 3 working days and in the
specified format
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 4 days with a
warning of suspension if
requirement not met
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
23.
After exhausting the complaints and
appeals procedure, the decision of the
Scheme is final. You must comply with the
Scheme’s decision.
X
Fit and Proper
Filename:
Reference:
Date:
Version:
Product Rules for the SAVA HCS
Reg 73
1/7/2015
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34
Severity
Tariff
element
Performance Criteria
Minor
Serious
Initial Action
Secondary Action
24.
You must provide a new basic level criminal
record disclosure if required to do so in
order to facilitate with the investigation of a
complaint
X
Failure to provide a new disclosure
within 28 days of the date of the
request will lead to suspension.
Failure to respond to initial sanctions results in
continued suspension for a maximum of 28
days after which time non response will result
in termination of your membership
25.
You must provide a new basic level criminal
record disclosure on or before the date on
which your current disclosure becomes 3
years old
X
Failure to provide a new disclosure before the existing one becomes 3 years old
leads to suspension of membership until a new disclosure is provided
Monitoring Procedures
26.
You must upload evidence within 3 working
days when requested to do so for a desktop
audit
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days. We may charge a
fee related to this
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
27.
You must respond to any feedback from an
audit within 3 working days unless
otherwise specified by the Scheme
X
Respond to specific scheme
requirement within 3 days and
demonstrate general improvement
within 28 days. We may charge a
fee related to this
Initial breach and subsequent failure to
respond to initial sanctions results in a
breach of tariff element 11
Filename:
Reference:
Date:
Version:
Product Rules for the SAVA HCS
Reg 73
1/7/2015
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35