Feasibility study vs condition survey vs options appraisal
The three terms are different deliverables produced by different disciplines and required at different points in a capital bid. CIF Section B needs condition evidence; Section C needs a fundable narrative. Bursars muddle them at their cost.
The three definitions
Condition survey: a structured walk-through of a building or estate scoring elements against a recognised condition scheme. Options appraisal: a weighted comparison of alternative scope options for a given project. Feasibility study: takes the chosen option to concept design and Cost Plan A.
Who produces each
Condition survey: chartered building surveyor. Options appraisal: architect with QS support. Feasibility study: multidisciplinary team.
CIF Section B vs C
Section B wants condition evidence dated within twelve months - that is the condition survey. Section C wants a fundable cost narrative - that is the feasibility output (Cost Plan A under NRM1) [source: CIF 2025-26 guide, verified 2026-06-24].
Fee deltas and overlap
Condition survey: £3,000-£12,000 standalone. Options appraisal: £4,000-£9,000 standalone. Feasibility study: £18,500-£40,000 multidisciplinary. The three commonly bundle together in a Stage 0-2 brief.
Can they be packaged in one engagement
Yes; most CIF-shaped briefs commission all three from a single consultant team. The fee envelope is the multidisciplinary feasibility number plus the survey package; do not double-count.