ASHP survey checklist: what we capture and why

A useful survey lets the designer understand the property without reconstructing the visit from an unlabelled photo folder. The exact brief varies by installer, but the record should show what was observed, what was measured and what still needs a design decision.

1) Location context

Start with the proposed outdoor-unit area and enough surrounding context to understand access, neighbouring openings, boundaries and the route back into the property.

• A wide view and close view of each proposed position
• Measured distances needed for the installer’s siting and sound checks
• Access, level changes, drainage context and visible obstructions

2) Measurements that tie to decisions

Measurements should be attached to a named room, surface or proposed equipment position. A number without that context is difficult to check later.

• Room dimensions and exposed surfaces where heat loss is included
• Existing emitters, cylinder and plant-space measurements where required
• Pipe-route, electrical and equipment-position dimensions requested in the brief

3) Photos as evidence

Each photograph should answer a question. Labels should match the report sections so the office can find the relevant evidence without calling the surveyor.

• Heating controls, boiler, cylinder, emitters and electrical intake where in scope
• Construction clues and insulation evidence used for stated assumptions
• Any inaccessible or unconfirmed item identified plainly for review

What happens before the surveyor leaves

The completed record is checked while the surveyor is still on site. If a required photograph, measurement or answer is missing, the surveyor can be asked to correct it before travelling away. Passing that check confirms the booked evidence has been captured; the installer still owns equipment selection and final design approval.