What a home survey actually checks

Every installation quote starts with a survey. It is worth knowing what it covers, because these are the items that turn a straightforward job into an expensive surprise if nobody looks.

The flue. Whether there is one, whether it draws, what it is lined with and what condition the lining is in. A chimney that has not been used for decades is not automatically usable. If it needs lining, you should know at the start.

The opening. Width, height and depth, and whether it is square — older openings rarely are. This decides which surrounds physically fit.

The hearth. Constructional hearths have minimum dimensions under the Building Regulations, and solid fuel appliances need more than gas. If the existing hearth is too small it has to be built up.

The wall build-up. Particularly for hole-in-the-wall fires and media walls: what is behind the plaster, whether the wall is structural, and whether it can carry the appliance.

Ventilation. Some appliances need a dedicated air supply, and a well-sealed modern home can change the requirement.

Access and services. Where the gas supply runs, whether there is power for an electric fire, and how a heavy stone or marble surround will get into the room.