Private Client – Blackbushe Business Park, Yateley

BAS Property Consultants recently completed a comprehensive pre-acquisition building survey of a property at Blackbushe Business Park, Yateley, providing a prospective occupier with a detailed assessment of the property’s condition prior to entering into a lease assignment.

Strand House is a substantial 33,224 sq ft industrial and office building comprising warehouse accommodation, two-storey offices, welfare facilities, a secure delivery yard, extensive parking and associated external areas. The survey was commissioned to identify any defects, maintenance liabilities and future repair obligations that could impact the client’s occupation and ongoing property management strategy.

The inspection included a detailed review of the building fabric, external areas and site infrastructure. In addition, the building services were assessed by Unova Consulting, providing specialist mechanical and electrical due diligence as part of the overall pre-acquisition process.

Due to the property’s close proximity to Blackbushe Airport, the use of drones for roof inspection was not feasible. To ensure a thorough assessment of the roof and other high-level elements, BAS Property Consultants undertook a second site visit using a cherry picker, enabling close inspection of areas that would otherwise have been inaccessible.

During the survey, several maintenance and repair items were identified. These included corrosion to roof perimeter capping sheets, impact damage and redundant service penetrations within sections of the external cladding, areas of ponding water to hardstanding surfaces, uneven pathways presenting localised trip hazards, ageing window systems approaching the end of their service life, and wear to warehouse resin flooring. Vegetation management issues were also noted, with overgrown shrubs and trees affecting access routes and external building elements.

The survey further highlighted the need for additional review of the site’s drainage infrastructure, together with verification of testing and maintenance records relating to electrical and fire alarm installations.

Overall, the property was found to be in generally good condition, with the majority of defects relating to routine maintenance and lifecycle repairs rather than significant structural concerns. By identifying these issues before completion of the lease assignment, the client gained a clear understanding of future maintenance requirements, potential liabilities and anticipated expenditure.

Pre-acquisition building surveys play a vital role in commercial property transactions, helping occupiers, investors and landlords make informed decisions based on the actual condition of a building. Through detailed inspection and practical advice, BAS Property Consultants provides clients with the information they need to manage risk, negotiate effectively and plan for future property ownership or occupation.