When you purchase a property, the most important thing you can do is check that it is in sound condition. A residential surveyor plays a key role in this process by providing you with expert, unbiased information about the property. Here’s some information I’ve put together to give you an understanding of what I do as a qualified residential surveyor and why a survey is crucial for you to make an informed decision about your new potential property.
What is a residential survey?
Firstly, let’s get an understanding of what a residential survey is. It is an inspection of a property conducted by a chartered surveyor. My job is to assess the condition of the property, identify any potential issues and provide a detailed report to you the buyer. These surveys are very important for older homes or properties where they may be concern about the building’s structure or damp issues.
My reports highlights areas that need repair, any potential risks and future maintenance requirements. This can help you make informed decisions about whether to proceed with the purchase, negotiate on price or request repairs before you complete the purchase.
Types of Residential Surveys I Offer And What’s Included
In the UK there are a number of different types of residential surveys. Each serve a slightly different purpose but here’s a breakdown for you:
Snagging Inspection
A basic snagging inspection report which will report visible defects and issues that need rectifying. This is aimed at new builds, refurbished or converted properties to ensure all works done meet the required standards. If these aren’t met, a snagging list is compiled for the builder to fix before the job is complete.
Homebuyers Survey
Homebuyers surveys are aimed at the majority of modern properties that have been kept in good condition and not older than 50 years. It will bring to light any major problems and confirm any defects that need urgent attention.
What should be included:
- Inspection of all internal areas including roof spaces
- Inspection of all exteriors and any permanent outbuildings
- Inspection of the roof
- Inspection of any visual parts of gas, electricity and water services
- Inspection of any boundaries, ie walls, fences and shared areas
- Any background information on the property and its location
- Inspection of damp proofing and damp tests of the walls
- Drainage
- Inspect the condition of the building’s timbers (including woodworm / rotting)
- Provide estimated costs of urgent repairs and maintenance
What’s not included:
- Efficiency or the safety of energy sources (gas / electricity)
- Efficiency of the plumbing, heating or drainage, or if they meet regulations
- Internal condition of any chimney or boiler
- Contamination or other environmental dangers, ie asbestos (if the surveyor suspects a problem, they should advise further investigation)
- An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for the property
Full Building Survey
This survey is also known as a structural survey, the most comprehensive of all survey’s offered. These are normally carried out on larger properties, those over 50 years or those that have previously had alterations and/or extensions carried out. If you are wanting to extend the property, this level of survey is ideal.
What should be included:
All that’s mentioned in the homebuyer’s survey as well as
- Detailed information on potential defects or risks
- Detailed information on the urgency of any repairs required
- Detailed inspection of all visible and accessible parts of the property, inc. roofs, walls, floors, windows, doors, chimneys, cellars and outbuildings
- Able to ask your surveyor to look into any concerns you may have about the property
- Able to ask your surveyor for a property valuation
What’s not included:
- Any guarantees. No survey report is 100% foolproof
Reasons Why You Need A Residential Survey
Having the expertise from a residential surveyor, like myself, is one of the most valuable tools at your disposal when buying a home. By having a clear understanding of the property’s condition, you can:
- Avoid unexpected costs: The survey can reveal costly repairs or issues that aren’t immediately visible during a viewing.
- Negotiate on price: If the survey uncovers defects, you may be able to negotiate a lower purchase price or request the seller makes the repairs.
- Plan for future maintenance: Knowing about potential problems allows you to budget for necessary repairs and maintenance in the future.
Why Choose A Residential Surveyor?
As a professional, qualified residential surveyor, I pride myself on providing thorough and reliable reports. Whether you are buying a property in London or the Southeast, my services ensure you have a full understanding of the property’s condition before making one of the biggest investments of your life. The surveys I write are clearly written, easy to understand and full of actionable insights so you can make the right decision.
Within my fee, I offer a follow-up consultation to discuss on the phone any issues or questions that you might have. I also stay with you through the process to completion to be on hand as much as needed to assist you or your legal advisor with any queries.
If you would like to find out more about the surveys, I offer then please get in touch.
