INIGO WREN
Building Surveyor, Chartered Builder and Heritage Consultant
Darron Carver MSc Building Conservation, IHBC, MCIOB, MIOC, ACABE, Level 3 ABBE Damp, Mould and Condensation in Buildings

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About Historic & Listed Buildings

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What makes historic and traditionally built buildings different?

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Historic buildings behave differently from modern construction. They rely on breathable materials, moisture movement, and traditional detailing. This means defects, damp, and structural behaviour must be assessed using conservation‑led principles rather than modern assumptions.

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Why do I need a specialist surveyor for a listed or period property?

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General surveyors often apply modern building logic, which can lead to misdiagnosis, unnecessary alarm, or inappropriate recommendations. A conservation‑accredited specialist understands traditional materials, moisture behaviour, and heritage significance — ensuring accurate diagnosis and sympathetic solutions.

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What qualifications do you hold?

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You are assessed by a conservation‑accredited surveyor with:

• MSc in Building Conservation

• Full IHBC Membership

• MCIOB

• ACABE

• DMCB Level 3 Damp & Moisture Specialist

• Hands‑on background in traditional craft and joinery

This combination is rare and ensures advice meets the highest professional and conservation standards.

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Surveys & Reports

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What types of surveys do you offer?

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We specialise in:

• Listed Building Surveys (Grade I, II & II*)

• Historic Building Surveys for homebuyers

• Damp & moisture investigations

• Building archaeology & interpretation

• Estate and heritage asset management

• Historic England Level 1–4 building recording

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What is included in a Listed Building Survey?

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A comprehensive, conservation‑led assessment covering:

• Building condition and defects

• Moisture behaviour and damp diagnosis

• Timber decay and structural concerns

• Inappropriate modern interventions

• Significance and heritage sensitivity

• Clear, practical recommendations

Reports are written in plain English with actionable steps.

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Do you provide RICS Level 2 or Level 3 surveys?

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We provide specialist heritage surveys that exceed the depth and relevance of standard RICS formats for historic buildings. These are tailored to the unique behaviour of older properties and are more appropriate for listed or traditionally built homes.

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Can you help before I make an offer on a property?

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Yes. We can provide early‑stage advice, review estate agent information, or carry out a pre‑offer inspection to help you make informed decisions.

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Damp, Moisture & Defects

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Do you diagnose damp problems?

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Yes — using building‑pathology principles, not chemical sales pitches. We provide independent, evidence‑based diagnosis that respects traditional fabric.

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Do you sell damp treatments or products?

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No. We are completely independent and do not sell chemicals, injections, or proprietary systems. Our advice is unbiased and conservation‑led.

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Why is damp so often misdiagnosed in old buildings?

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Many modern surveyors and contractors assume moisture behaves the same way in all buildings. Historic buildings are designed to breathe, and misdiagnosis often leads to unnecessary or damaging interventions.

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Planning, Design & Heritage Statements​

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Can you prepare Heritage Statements and Significance Assessments?

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Yes. We produce planning‑ready documents that support sensitive, successful Listed Building Consent applications.

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Do you manage the Listed Building Consent process?

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We can prepare the required heritage documentation and work with your architect or designer to support the application. We also provide guidance on what is likely to be acceptable to the local authority.

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Do I always need Listed Building Consent?

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Consent is required for any works that affect the character or significance of a listed building. This includes alterations, extensions, repairs, and sometimes internal changes. We can advise on what does and does not require consent.

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Homebuyers & Homeowners​

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I’m buying a listed building — when should I book a survey?

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Ideally as early as possible after your offer is accepted. Early specialist advice helps you understand risks, negotiate confidently, and avoid unexpected costs.

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Can you advise on repairs or alterations after the survey?

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Yes. We provide ongoing guidance, review contractor proposals, and help you plan sympathetic repairs or improvements.

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Do you work with architects and contractors?

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Absolutely. We collaborate with architects, conservation officers, estate managers, and traditional craftspeople to ensure the best outcomes for your building.

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Coverage & Practicalities​

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What areas do you cover?

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We work across West Sussex, the South Downs, Chichester, Petworth, Midhurst, Haslemere, Petersfield, and the wider South East.

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How quickly can you carry out a survey?

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Availability varies, but we aim to accommodate urgent homebuyer timelines wherever possible. Contact us to check current lead times.

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How long does a survey take?

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Most inspections take between 3–6 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the building.

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When will I receive my report?

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Reports are typically delivered within 5–10 working days, depending on complexity.

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Fees & Booking​

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How much does a survey cost?

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Fees depend on:

• Building size and complexity

• Listing grade

• Required depth of investigation

• Travel and location

We provide clear, fixed‑fee quotations with no hidden costs.

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How do I book?

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You can contact us via:

• The website enquiry form

• Email

• Telephone

We’ll discuss your needs, confirm the scope, and provide a tailored quotation.

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Additional Services​

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Do you offer ongoing heritage asset management?

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Yes. We support estates, custodians, and long‑term owners with planned maintenance, inspections, and conservation‑led management strategies.

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Do you provide building archaeology or historic interpretation?

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Yes. We can analyse the evolution, materials, and phases of your building to support sensitive repair, design, and long‑term stewardship.

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Can you record buildings to Historic England standards?

Yes — we produce Level 1, 2, 3, and 4 building records as required by local authorities.

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Contact & Support​

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How do I get in touch?

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You can reach us via:

• Website contact form

• Email

• Telephone

We’re always happy to discuss your project, even if you’re unsure what type of survey or advice you need.

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Do you offer follow‑up support after the survey?

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Yes. We provide ongoing advice, clarification, and guidance as you plan repairs, alterations, or maintenance.

If you’d like, I can also:

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Just tell me what you’d like next.

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​Do you supply surveys in London

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Yes

We also cover:

• West Sussex

• South Downs National Park

• Surrey 

• Hampshire

• Dorset

• Kent

• Chichester, Petworth, Haslemere, Petersfield

• Brighton & Hove

• London 

• Portsmouth

• Winchester

• Guildford

• Horsham

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