David George Surveying & Conservation

Specialist Conservation Services

I’ve always had a fascination with buildings, design, old structures and history, the latter two inextricably linked in my view.

Often referred to as a frustrated Architect, my appreciation of design has influenced my approach to traditional building surveying and I certainly don’t see myself as a typical Chartered Building Surveyor. This has also driven me to challenge the common perception of the abilities and the role of the Building Surveyor as regards Historic Buildings, in particular in the undertaking of Church Surveys (usually the realm of the Conservation Architect) and in the design process.

The layperson and professional are bombarded with numerous interpretations of the meaning of Heritage Asset preservation and conservation; there is an extensive catalogue of invaluable guidance and advisory information available, however my primary aim and professional role is simple: to strive to understand the Heritage Asset in both an Historical context, as a living, ‘breathing’ often organic structure and to inform the client accordingly and appropriately to preserve the Asset’s context, integrity and long term future.

Recent Projects

Stables in Iddesleigh

David George has acted for a number of charities and funded institutions including Farms for City Children. Previously underused stables at their Iddesleigh site were converted to a food tech/kitchen.

Associated advice includes Planned Maintenance programmes to the main house as well as repairs and reconstruction to walled garden features.

David was responsive to queries and prompt … managed to get the Survey Report to us only a few days after conducting it………. thorough but realistic approach. ….suggested different routes for remedying problems, … Unlike some surveyors, did not cause us to panic ….his report was very detailed and in-depth. … has a good knowledge of architectural history and was able to fill us in about the likely origins of the property.

David has been consulting on my family estate for over a decade, advising on our grade I listed Robert Adam home and other residential properties on the estate, listed and not listed alike. Whether it is ad hoc advice, full maintenance and restoration plans or large projects, I know that I will always get enthusiasm, professionalism and experience. I couldn’t put the conservation of my family home in safer hands. Alexander Clifford

We have now used David George as our house surveyor on two properties we have purchased. We have been extremely happy with his survey reports and are equally impressed with his knowledge on both conservation and advice on ensuring buildings are repaired in the correct fashion. We would definitely recommend him to anyone looking for a good surveyor.
Keith & Judith Tomline

David George did a survey for me on a very complicated Grade 11 listed house with a history going back to the 15th century. His survey was very thorough and well presented. His specialised knowledge and expertise in old buildings was evident. He also added advice for the management of a few issues and estimated costs. A good chap to deal with.
Peter Byles.

We were passed Davids details via recommendation, and happy to say he did not disappoint. We’re moving from London to Devon and needed some local expertise with a homebuyer survey. David was very responsive and broke down the detail on the survey for us. He raised some great points that we took away to seek further clarification on. We can’t wait to be finally living in the area and would highly recommend David to anyone looking for piece of mind when undertaking a move, Liam Thomas

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