D B & Paul

Business Details

34 Years

experience

Trusted Building Surveyors and Architectural Design Services in Wells

We are a long-established firm of chartered building surveyors and architectural design specialists based in Wells, Somerset, with over 30 years of experience serving the Mendip area and beyond. Our team of RICS-accredited professionals brings extensive expertise in residential and commercial surveying, planning consultancy, and architectural design, delivering tailored solutions for diverse projects. With a focus on technical excellence and client collaboration, we manage projects from initial concept through to completion, ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Our deep local knowledge and commitment to sustainable practices enable us to address both historical and modern building challenges effectively. We pride ourselves on transparency, reliability, and providing clear, actionable guidance to support informed decision-making for property investments and developments.

Services

Building Surveys Architectural Design Planning Consultancy Contract Administration Measured Surveys CAD Drawings Extensions and Conversions Tenders for Works Project Management Condition Surveys

Details

Year established: 1992

Highlights and features

We offer over 30 years of local expertise in building surveying and architectural design.
Our team includes RICS chartered professionals with proven project management capabilities.
We provide comprehensive services from planning permission to building regulation approval.
Our client-focused approach ensures clear communication and tailored solutions.
We combine technical excellence with a commitment to sustainable and sensitive design.

Associations and certifications

RICS

What people say

Exceptional service Clear and comprehensive reports Professional and knowledgeable team Helped renegotiate property prices Delighted with project support

Website

Update Listing

Services

Building Surveys

We conduct detailed building surveys to evaluate structural condition, identify defects, and provide actionable recommendations. Our RICS-accredited surveyors deliver clear, comprehensive reports for residential and commercial properties, ensuring clients understand their investments. With expertise in listed buildings and complex renovations, we support informed decision-making for purchases, insurance, or refurbishment projects.

Architectural Design

Our architectural design services cover residential and commercial projects, from concept to completion. We specialise in extensions, conversions, and new builds, blending creativity with technical precision. The team produces detailed CAD drawings and specifications, ensuring compliance with planning and building regulations while meeting clients' functional and aesthetic needs.

Planning Consultancy

We assist with planning applications, listed building consent, and regulatory approvals. Our local knowledge and experience streamline the submission process, addressing potential challenges proactively. We work closely with clients and authorities to secure permissions for residential, commercial, and heritage projects across Mendip and Somerset.

Project Management

We provide end-to-end project management for building works, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met. Our services include contract administration, contractor coordination, and compliance monitoring. With expertise in residential and commercial developments, we deliver seamless execution from design to handover.

Condition Surveys

Our condition surveys assess the state of residential and commercial properties, identifying urgent repairs and maintenance needs. These surveys are ideal for pre-purchase evaluations, insurance reinstatement, or managing investment portfolios. We provide clear, prioritised reports to guide repair strategies and budget planning.

People

Nicholas German

Managing Director & Building Surveyor

Nicholas has over a decade of experience in building surveying, leading complex projects with a focus on residential and commercial developments. He joined D B & Paul in 2014 and became Managing Director in 2019, driving innovation in surveying and design.

Robert Arnell

Chartered Building Surveyor

Robert specialises in residential surveying, offering expert advice on property defects, listed buildings, and regulatory compliance. He joined D B & Paul in 2022, bringing extensive experience in homebuyer reports and renovation projects across Somerset.

James Paul

Consultant Building Surveyor

James founded D B & Paul and served as director until 2019. With over 40 years in the profession, including RICS fellowship since 1989, he provides consultancy services, leveraging unparalleled local knowledge of Wells' architectural heritage.

Robert Knapp

Architectural Design Technician

Robert has over 30 years of architectural experience, working on NHS, government, and private projects. He joined D B & Paul in 2018, offering expertise in feasibility studies, concept design, and project management for diverse sectors.

Jake Ford

Building Surveyor

Jake joined D B & Paul in 2024 after achieving AssocRICS membership. He specialises in residential surveys, providing detailed assessments and guidance for property buyers. His local expertise ensures clients receive practical, location-specific advice.

Questions

What areas do db+PAUL cover?

We primarily serve Mendip, Somerset, and surrounding regions, offering surveying and architectural services for residential and commercial properties.

Are your surveyors RICS accredited?

Yes, our team includes RICS chartered building surveyors with expertise in residential and commercial sectors.

Can you assist with listed building projects?

Yes, we provide specialist advice on listed building consent, renovations, and compliance with heritage regulations.

What types of architectural projects do you handle?

We design extensions, conversions, new builds, and commercial developments, ensuring compliance with planning and building regulations.

How quickly will I receive my survey report?

Reports are typically delivered within the agreed timeframe, often before the estimated date, as highlighted by client feedback.

Do you offer project management services?

Yes, we provide end-to-end project administration, from tendering to completion, ensuring quality and compliance.

Reviews (3)

Write a Review

Steve Mahoney

Nov 29, 2020 Report

Sincere thanks to Nick German once again for another invaluable assessment on our new home. Nick seemed to understand exactly what we were after and has the ability to explain everything in layman's terms. He gets on with the job, is generous with his time and above all he is an absolute professional. We will not hesitate in using his service again as the need arises in future. We highly recommend Nick and the team at db & Paul for their friendly and efficient service.

Pam Robertshaw

Aug 26, 2020 Report

Professional, friendly and very helpful. That sums up my experience with db & Paul. My first contact was with Jeni, who was very pleasant and understanding. The visit from Nick German was excellent in terms of both the advice given and the report. He was helpful in recommending a suitable person to make repairs and liaising with us both.

Jan Mills

Sep 28, 2019 Report

I have used db+Paul several times over the last few years, firstly to do full building surveys on two properties that I subsequently purchased, and secondly to investigate a damp problem in a bedroom. They have always been prompt and proactive and their surveys comprehensive and helpful. They will always be my surveyors of choice, and I would highly recommend them.