Frequently Asked Question

Included in our Service

We offer a range of surveying and valuation services, including Homebuyers Surveys, Building Surveys, and Valuations.

A survey is an essential step when buying a property as it can help identify potential issues with the property, provide peace of mind, and ensure that the buyer is making an informed decision.

The duration of a survey depends on the type of survey you require and the size and condition of the property. Typically, a Homebuyers Survey will take around 1-2 hours to complete, while a Building Survey may take longer.

The cost of a survey varies depending on the type of survey you require, the size and value of the property. Try our instant quotation form us for a quote.

All of our surveys are carried out by RICS Chartered Surveyors who are highly trained and experienced in their field.

You can book a survey by filling out our online booking form or by calling our customer service team.

We provide our customers with the ability to monitor and download their report from our online client portal, creating a transparent and seamless process. We also offer continuous support thereafter, including a free consultation with a RICS Chartered Surveyor.

We cover a wide range of areas throughout London and the surrounding home counties. Contact us to find out if we cover your area.

Your survey report is valid for the length of time specified in the report, typically one years, depending on the type of survey you have received.

Valuation Q&A

A valuation report is a document that provides an estimated value of a property, usually for the purpose of buying, selling, or refinancing.

A valuation report is focused solely on determining the value of a property, while a homebuyer's survey provides a more detailed assessment of the condition of the property and any potential issues that may need to be addressed.

We offer a variety of valuation reports, including those for tax, probate and inheritance, help to buy, shared ownership, and purchase and sale.

The time it takes to receive a valuation report can vary depending on the specific type of report and the complexity of the property. However, we strive to provide our clients with timely and efficient service within 3-5 working days from our inspection.

A valuation report typically includes details about the property, such as its location, size, and condition, as well as an analysis of the local property market and comparable properties in the area. It also includes a final valuation figure and any assumptions or limitations that were made during the valuation process.

Yes, we offer valuation reports for both residential and commercial properties.

Our valuation reports are recognised and accepted by housing associations in the UK, making them a reliable and trusted source of information.

You can order a valuation report through our website or by contacting our team directly. We will work with you to determine the type of report you need and provide you with a competitive quote.

Help to Buy valuation is a property valuation required by the Help to Buy scheme, which is a government-backed initiative designed to help people buy their own homes. The valuation is necessary to determine the market value of the property and to ensure that it meets the scheme's eligibility criteria.

If you are using the Help to Buy scheme to purchase your home, you will need a Help to Buy valuation. This is because the scheme requires that the property meets certain eligibility criteria and is valued at or below the regional price cap.

An equity share valuation is a property valuation required when buying an equity share (or share of leasehold) in a property. This is a common arrangement in shared ownership schemes, where you buy a percentage of the property and pay rent on the remaining share.

You need an equity share valuation to determine the market value of the percentage of the property you are buying. This is important because it will affect the price you pay for the equity share, as well as the rent you will pay on the remaining share.

The process for a Help to Buy or equity share valuation is similar to a regular property valuation. An RICS qualified surveyor will inspect the property and provide a report detailing its value. This report will be used by your lender to determine the maximum mortgage amount they are willing to offer you.

The length of time it takes to carry out a Help to Buy or equity share valuation depends on a number of factors, such as the size and complexity of the property. Generally, it takes around 3-5 working days to receive the valuation report. However, this can vary depending on the surveyor's availability and workload.

A Help to Buy or equity share valuation report will detail the market value of the property and any factors that may affect its value, such as repairs or maintenance required. The report will also confirm whether the property meets the eligibility criteria for the Help to Buy scheme or equity share purchase.

Homebuyers Q&A

A homebuyer's survey is a detailed inspection of a property carried out by a qualified surveyor. The survey is designed to provide the buyer with a comprehensive report on the condition of the property, identifying any potential problems or defects.
The surveyor will typically examine the property both inside and out, looking for any signs of damage, wear and tear, or other issues that could affect the property's value or safety. They may use specialist equipment such as thermal imaging cameras or moisture meters to detect hidden problems. The report produced by the surveyor will outline any problems identified during the survey, along with recommendations for remedial action. This information can be used by the buyer to negotiate a better price for the property or to make informed decisions about any repairs or maintenance that may be required.
There are different types of homebuyer's surveys available, with varying levels of detail and cost. A basic survey might focus on the main structural elements of the property, while a more comprehensive survey might cover everything from the condition of the roof to the functionality of the heating system. Overall, a homebuyer's survey is an important step for anyone considering purchasing a property, providing valuable information and helping to ensure that the buyer makes an informed decision.

A homebuyer's survey is an essential step for anyone looking to purchase a property. Here are three to six benefits of a homebuyer's survey:

    1. Identifying Potential Problems: A homebuyer's survey can help identify any potential problems with the property before you commit to purchasing it. For example, a survey can detect issues with the roof, foundation, or heating system that might not be immediately apparent during a viewing.
    2. Cost Savings: Identifying any potential problems early on can help you negotiate a better price for the property or avoid costly repairs down the line. This can save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
    3. Peace of Mind: A homebuyer's survey can provide peace of mind by giving you a clear picture of the condition of the property you are interested in buying. This can help you make an informed decision and reduce any stress or uncertainty you might feel during the homebuying process.
    4. Better Understanding of the Property: A survey can help you understand the layout, construction, and unique features of the property better. This can help you plan any renovations or upgrades you might want to make in the future.
    5. Helps with Insurance: A homebuyer's survey can provide valuable information for insurance purposes. Insurance companies may request a survey to assess the property's risks and determine appropriate coverage and premiums.
    6. Legal Protection: Finally, a homebuyer's survey can provide legal protection if any issues arise with the property after you purchase it. If a survey identifies any problems that were not disclosed by the seller, you may be able to seek legal recourse to rectify the situation.

A homebuyer's survey is an important step for anyone considering purchasing a property. Here are some reasons why someone might need a homebuyer's survey:

    1. Identify any hidden defects: A homebuyer's survey can uncover any hidden defects or issues with the property that might not be visible during a regular viewing. This could include problems with the roof, plumbing, heating, or electrical systems.
    2. Negotiate a better price: If a survey identifies any problems with the property, this can provide an opportunity to negotiate a lower purchase price. This can potentially save the buyer a significant amount of money.
    3. Plan for future repairs: A survey can help a buyer understand what repairs or maintenance might be required in the future. This can help them budget accordingly and avoid any unpleasant surprises down the line.
    4. Gain peace of mind: A homebuyer's survey can provide valuable information and reassurance to the buyer, helping them feel confident in their decision to purchase the property.
    5. Meet lender requirements: Some lenders may require a homebuyer's survey as a condition of granting a mortgage. This is particularly true if the property is older or if there are concerns about its condition.
Overall, a homebuyer's survey is a worthwhile investment for anyone considering purchasing a property. It can help identify potential issues, provide peace of mind, and ensure that the buyer is making an informed decision.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Homebuyers Survey is a type of homebuyers survey that is designed to provide potential buyers with a detailed assessment of the condition of a property. There are two levels of RICS Homebuyers Survey: the RICS HomeBuyer Report (Level 2), the RICS HomeBuyer Report with Valuation (Level 2) and RICS HomeBuyer Report (Level 3).
Here's a breakdown of the different levels of the RICS Homebuyers Survey:

    RICS HomeBuyer Report (Level 2): This is a mid-level survey that is suitable for most types of properties that are in reasonable condition. The survey provides a visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property, including the roof space, cellars, and outbuildings. It covers key aspects of the property's condition, including defects, repairs, and maintenance issues. The report will also include advice on any further investigations or specialist inspections that may be required.
    RICS HomeBuyer Report with Valuation (Level 2): This is a more comprehensive version of the RICS HomeBuyer Report that includes an additional valuation of the property. This type of survey is suitable for most properties that are in reasonable condition and provides a detailed assessment of the property's condition and value. In addition to the visual inspection, the surveyor will also provide a market valuation of the property, which can be used for mortgage and insurance purposes.
Both levels of the RICS Homebuyers Survey are designed to provide potential buyers with the information they need to make an informed decision about a property. They highlight any significant defects or issues that may affect the property's value or its suitability for the buyer's needs. It's important to note that the survey does not cover every aspect of the property and is not a guarantee of its condition, but rather provides an expert opinion based on a visual inspection.
    RICS Building Survey (Level 3): This is the most comprehensive survey available and is suitable for larger or older properties, or those with complex or unusual features. It includes a detailed examination of all visible and accessible parts of the property, and may involve intrusive inspection methods, such as lifting floorboards or removing panels. The survey provides a thorough assessment of the property's condition, including any defects or potential issues, and provides advice on necessary repairs and maintenance. The report will also include an estimated cost for repairs and an assessment of the property's value.
The RICS Building Survey is recommended for properties that are more than 50 years old, have undergone significant alterations, or have a unique design or construction. It provides the most detailed assessment of the property's condition and is designed to help buyers make an informed decision about the purchase.