If you’re a homeowner or someone thinking of entering the property market, the skills and services of a RICS Chartered Surveyor can be invaluable. But what do these professionals actually do and how can they help you? Let’s find out more…
What does a surveyor do?
A surveyor is someone who can check a property for defects, issues and potential future problems. They can also accurately value a property.
What is a Chartered Surveyor?
While anyone can technically call themselves a surveyor, when you employ the services of a Chartered Surveyor, you are guaranteed a high level of quality and professionalism. That is because in order to become ‘chartered’ they must have:
- Completed a degree accredited by the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors)
- Gained extensive experience
- Passed their Assessment of Professional Competence
As a RICS Chartered Surveyor, they will also be held to account by their governing body, adhere to a strict code of conduct and complete annual training to keep their skills up to date.
What does a surveyor look for in a house survey?
So, what does a Chartered Surveyor do when they carry out a survey? The answer depends a little on what level of house survey you decide upon, but they will visit a property and use their training and experience to look for current or potential issues. They will then write a report in plain English for you to digest and use to make important property decisions.
Your Chartered Surveyor is able to:
- Offer a summary of the property including its overall condition.
- Research and provide property statistics including the property type; approximate date it was built; the approximate date of any extensions and/or conversions; the number of rooms; the energy efficiency rating; environmental impact rating; whether gas, electricity, water and drainage services are present; the type of heating; information about the location e.g. grounds and local environment.
- Inside, they will assess the roof, ceilings, walls, partitions, uncovered floors, fireplaces, chimney breasts and flues, staircases, woodwork and bathroom fittings.
- Outside they will look at the roof, chimney stacks, guttering, main walls, windows, doors, joinery and other finishes/features.
- Check services i.e. water, heating, electricity, gas, oil, drainage and common services.
- Inspect the grounds, assessing boundary walls, fences, decking, outbuildings and any common areas.
- Take note of any legal issues for the attention of your solicitor.
- Make an impartial valuation (if instructed to as an additional service).
Do I need a Chartered Surveyor for a house survey?
If you’re in need of a surveyor we would always strongly recommend the services of a RICS Chartered Surveyor. Whether a relatively small limited defect survey to inspect a single crack in the wall; a snagging survey for a new build; or an in-depth, full structural survey, they will be able to provide the best advice in the industry.
Find out more
If you’re in need of more information or would like help choosing the best survey for your property, please get in touch. Our experienced, approachable team will be happy to answer all your questions and a report from our Chartered Surveyors will put your mind at ease.