Business Details
49 Years
experience
Expert Building Surveys in the South West
Established in 1977, we are an independent practice of Chartered Building Surveyors serving residential and commercial clients across the South West. Our expertise spans detailed building surveys, defect investigations, architectural design, and project management. With offices in Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton, we combine decades of experience with a commitment to tailored, client-focused solutions. Our team, led by Andrew Mills FRICS FCABE and Sean Mills MRICS, delivers technical precision and clear communication on every project.Clients consistently praise our professionalism, accessibility, and thoroughness in addressing property concerns. From historic buildings to modern developments, we provide actionable insights that protect investments and inform decision-making. Our services extend beyond reports to include contract administration, dilapidations, and CDM compliance, ensuring comprehensive support throughout a building's lifecycle. This enduring local presence reflects our dedication to quality and client satisfaction.
Services
Building Surveys
Defects Investigations
Architectural Design
Project Management
Contract Administration
CDM Compliance
Dilapidations
Party Walls
Measured Surveys
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We offer 45+ years of local surveying expertise since 1977
- Our team holds RICS and CABE professional accreditations
- We provide fully customised technical reporting to client needs
- Clients highlight our accessible communication and thoroughness
- We combine surveying with architectural design capabilities
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
What people say
Professional and courteous
Kept well informed
Helpful and approachable
Accurate reports
Clients recommend
Services
Building Surveys
We conduct comprehensive technical assessments of residential and commercial buildings, identifying structural issues, damp, timber defects, and compliance requirements. Our reports provide clear condition analysis with prioritised maintenance recommendations. Tailored to client needs, these surveys support informed property decisions for owners and investors.
Defects Investigations
Specialist diagnosis of specific building problems including subsidence, cracking, water ingress, and material deterioration. We provide detailed technical evaluations with repair strategies. Our investigations address both immediate concerns and long-term structural integrity for residential and commercial properties.
Architectural Design
We create architectural plans for new constructions and property extensions, balancing aesthetic appeal with structural compliance. Services include planning applications, construction drawings, and project visualisations. Our designs integrate with existing structures while meeting modern building regulations and client specifications.
Project Management
We coordinate building projects from inception to completion, managing timelines, contractors, and budgets. Our oversight ensures quality control and regulatory compliance throughout the construction process. Clients receive regular progress updates and cost management reports for complete project transparency.
Party Walls
We provide Party Wall Act 1996 services for property owners and adjoining neighbours. This includes schedule of condition reports, award preparation, and dispute resolution. Our RICS-qualified surveyors ensure legal compliance while protecting clients' interests during shared boundary works.
People
Andrew Mills
Chartered Building Surveyor
With over 45 years' experience since establishing the practice in 1977, Andrew specialises in building surveys, defect analysis, and CDM compliance. His career spans London practices Knight Frank & Rutley before settling in Devon.
Sean Mills
Chartered Building Surveyor
Joining in 2004, Sean brings expertise in project management and dilapidations from London firms Hillier Parker and CB Richard Ellis. He focuses on residential surveys and party wall matters in East Devon.
Questions
What areas do you cover?
We operate across Devon and the wider South West region, with offices in Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton serving both residential and commercial clients.
Are you RICS qualified?
Yes, both partners hold RICS membership with Andrew Mills additionally qualified as Fellow RICS and CABE accredited professional.
How quickly can you complete a survey?
Typical turnaround is 5-7 working days from site visit to report delivery, with urgent requests accommodated where possible based on workload.
Do you handle party wall disputes?
Yes, we provide full Party Wall Act 1996 services including schedule of conditions, award preparation, and dispute resolution for both building owners and adjoining parties.
Can you manage building projects?
We offer end-to-end project management including contractor coordination, budget control, and regulatory compliance monitoring throughout the construction process.
