Allcott Associates Avis 

Update 10/3: lowering my rating from 3 stars to 1. After receiving the company’s response, I’m even more disappointed. Instead of addressing my concerns, they defended their report by saying it was dictated and transcribed—something irrelevant to the fact that much of it felt like generic filler. They also suggested that I should have paid for a more expensive Level 3 survey, despite their Level 2 service being priced at a premium compared to others. If they believe their Level 2 surveys are so limited, they should be more transparent upfront. Lastly, they now claim that phone discussions are always available, but this was never communicated during my experience. Their slow and unhelpful email responses contradict this claim.

For these reasons, I’m lowering my rating from 3 stars to 1. Not only was the service not worth the money, but their response confirms that they are more interested in justifying themselves than in improving customer experience. Would not recommend.
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I had a Level 2 survey conducted by Allcott. The booking process was smooth and straightforward—they handled the arrangements directly with the estate agent, ensuring clear communication and efficient scheduling.

However, the report itself was underwhelming, especially given their pricing. Allcott charges around 20% more than smaller surveyors, so I expected a higher level of detail and thoroughness to justify the premium.

While the report highlighted some obvious issues, there were areas where they could have provided more insight but didn’t. For example, the bathroom has a passive ventilation system, but instead of testing or investigating further, the report simply mentioned its presence and suggested that I check with the vendor or management company to confirm whether it was working. For the price I paid, I would have expected a more thorough assessment rather than being left to chase answers myself. Additionally, the report was 56 pages long, but most of it consisted of generic template text with only minor modifications.

From my past experiences, other surveyors typically arrange a call to walk you through their findings. Allcott, however, simply sends the report and only answers questions via email—and their response times are far from fast.

Did they complete the survey? Yes. Was it worth the money? Not at all.

We got a building survey for a house purchase and the surveyor made a basic mistake and missed that the chimney had been removed in one of the bedrooms and hadn’t been supported structurally above. A contractor pointed this out to us after we bought house. The owner of Allcott Associates point-blank refused to accept any responsibility and even refused to inspect the property in line with their own complaints handling procedure. I had to take him to court (successfully) to get the money out of them. Avoid.

It was very detailed survey and results were given in promised time period

They were able to find us time for an appointment very quickly, and even bumped us up the queue due to a cancellation!

The report we received was very thorough and gave special attention to the points of concern we had. This was produced and sent to us within a day or so of the survey being completed!

Allcott Associates were very responsive, professional, and friendly throughout the process.

Really efficient and professional. Will use them again on my next property.

Quick delivery and thorough report. Thank you!

David Alcott attended and produced a very concise structural defects report with which our builders could not refute and persuaded them to rectify without any further action.Excellent Service!

Waste of time, they advertise their ability to survey any property anywhere and provide a quotation on that basis. Once you try and book in they say they don’t cover your area even though they’ve quoted. Don’t waste your time.

Asked for quote and waiting time next thing I know my instructed Survayer cancelled as these guys had gone to my estate agent and booked in without my knowledge or a quote. Phoned them they basically just blamed it on a email not sending through to me

They were great with communicating with what was happening. They offered support if we needed help with our report after it was completed. The report came through really quick. Would definitely use them again!

I would like to personally thank Paul Barret, he was incredibly professional throughout the process. He provided clear advice which was easy to follow, especially as a first-time buyer. I will definitely be recommending Alcott Associates to my friends and family in the future because of the exceptional experience Paul has provided.

The whole process was organised and great. Any queries we had were answered straight away. Our survey report was very informative with clear outlines for any work which is needed.

Very attentive, friendly and professional women both at first contact and in subsequent admin emails.
Very professional and helpful surveyor. Thank you, all.

Did as required. Advised as to type of survey was best for our needs. Prompt return of report which was easy to read & understand

Very clear and detailed survey completed in short space of time. The surveyor also provided further feedback after the search results received. Very professional service from booking the survey to the receipt of the report. I would highly recommend Allcott Associates.

Excellent communication throughout the process, including regular updates on key actions. The final survey summary was extensive and very informative. The surveyor had also included details around future-proofing the property in light of potential climate change- related issues which was very insightful.Overall, I think that our experience was stress free and represented very good value for money, I would highly recommend!

A very thorough survey done at short notice by a competent and interested surveyor

Quick booking, raport received in a few days. Very pleased with the service.

Missed rat infestation- failed to inspect loft despite paying for most thorough and expensive Level 3 survey. Surveyor said he didn’t feel safe going in the loft and it contained belongings. Raised a complaint and was fobbed off.