Get a free instant quote for a property survey in Cardiff
The surveyor who produces your report will be local to Cardiff with knowledge of the area. We work with RICS qualified surveyors around the country who offer high quality property surveys at a great price. Surveyor Local gives you piece of mind and offers RICS HomeBuyer Reports, Building Surveys and Property Valuations.
Fast turnaround
The reports are a fast turnaround while still being accurate, so you'll have everything you need in no time.
RICS qualified
You can trust our reports as they are all regulated by RICS, assuring standards and professional guidance.
Traffic-light ratings
Each report comes with a handy traffic-light system to illustrate all aspects of the property clearly.
Surveying in Cardiff made easy with Surveyor Local
Are you planning to buy a property in Cardiff? Then one of the first things you'll need is a property survey. Getting a property survey doesn't have to be complicated. At Surveyor Local we can help you make an informed decision about any property you plan to buy.
We offer Homebuyer Reports (RICS Level 2), Building Surveys (RICS Level 3), and Property Valuations. So get things moving in a matter of moments with an online quote, call us on , or request a callback.
Arranging a building survey in Cardiff
No matter which part of this historic region you intend to purchase in, you can quickly and easily arrange the building survey you need through Surveyor Local.
From the biggest communities such as Adamsdown, Butetown, Caerau, and Canton to picturesque and historic spots like Cyncoed and Llandaff, Surveyor Local can handle your building survey.
We only work with chartered Cardiff surveyors registered with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to guarantee the highest quality service at affordable prices.
Read on to find the answers to our most frequently asked questions about building surveys in Cardiff.
I intend to buy a flat in Cardiff. What sort of survey should I instruct?
Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Cardiff, the decision on which building survey is best will depend on a number of factors. For example, a full structural survey known as a Building Survey (RICS Level 3) will provide a more in-depth examination and explanation of the fabric of a building. This might be more appropriate when buying a flat or apartment because the surveyor can be asked to provide an opinion on shared areas of a property, such as the roof area, hallways and stairwells.
We're cash buyers. Do we need to bother with any kind of structural survey or will a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) be enough?
It's always best to be forewarned about any potential issues with a property, and those buying without a mortgage need to protect their investment just as a lender would. A Building Survey (RICS Level 3) is the most comprehensive and technical survey offered by Cardiff RICS surveyors working with Surveyor Local. An examination of the property's accessible areas - both interior and exterior - will inform an in-depth report on its construction, any visible defects and their causes, and any recommendations on repair and maintenance options. A Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2)would also identify any structural issues, such as subsidence, but this will not be as thorough an examination as the Building Survey.
We are interested in buying a barn conversion In Cardiff. Which type of survey will reveal if the age of the property is an issue?
The method of construction used in a property may dictate which kind of survey you choose. Older properties built using traditional methods and materials may be more expensive to maintain, while any defects may not be obvious without a detailed inspection. When you instruct a Cardiff RICS chartered surveyor through Surveyor Local, you get the opportunity to discuss whether the property you intend to buy has any specific issues related to its age or construction type. The surveyor can advise on what survey would best suit your circumstances.
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What kind of roof issues would a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) reveal?
A Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) uses colour-coded condition ratings that give those purchasing a property clear understanding of any issues. Access to loft or attic space can reveal issues with trusses and supports, torn or punctured damp proofing or missing tiles. Where it is not possible to access the roof for a more thorough inspection, the final report will make this clear.
I'm bidding on a Cardiff property that hasn't been renovated in decades, and I'm concerned there may be asbestos in the interior roof tiles. Will a survey show if asbestos is there?
A building survey will not be able to confirm whether asbestos is present, but the surveyor will note any possibility of the fibre's use and advise where further investigation is required. Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre that was used in building materials such as flooring and fireplace lining because of its resistance to heat. The product was also used as insulation in ceiling tiles. Asbestos is a hazardous substance, and prolonged exposure to its fibres can lead to lung cancer or asbestosis. Where asbestos is found, it must be removed by professionals who are licensed by the Health & Safety Executive.
The electrics in the Cardiff terraced house we're bidding on are very old. Does a surveyor look at the safety of the wiring?
Whether carrying out a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) or a Building Survey (RICS Level 3), a Cardiff chartered surveyor will look at the condition of the electrics, including an overview of the fuse board, its age and condition, any visible wiring, plus electrical fittings such as showers and light fittings. If the electrics are in an unsatisfactory or dangerous state of repair, the surveyor will highlight this in their subsequent report. The surveyor will also examine any documentation from electrical wiring tests carried out by an electrician where this is available.
If we are purchasing in Cardiff, what recommendations will a Cardiff property surveyor make for properties with Fletton brick? Is age a factor?
Brick Cardiff residences will be affected by a range of defects, from frost damage to badly applied render. For instance, brick rot, resulting from decades of exposure to condensation or damp at ground level, should be taken very seriously.
The home we plan to purchase in Cardiff is built on clay soil. What should we expect a Cardiff Property Survey to include?
A common source of queries that surveyors face from home buyers is subsidence, particularly in areas where the soil is rich in clay. Specific issues include movement of clay soil layers resulting from changes in their water content. Defects can be obvious to the naked eye or may remain undiscovered and therefore untreated for years, such as cracked plaster. During the Homebuyer Report or Building Survey, the effect that the soil make up could have on the property will be considered. Additional strengthening or support of the structure's foundations may be required, including underpinning or piling.
We are buying a house in Cardiff, does the building survey inquire into flooding damage, or if neighbour's houses have been affected?
Contrary to popular opinion, the distance a Cardiff property is from the nearest river or coast is not the only measure of flood risk. It is strongly recommended that prevention methods are considered, before flooding occurs, and a property surveyor will advise on repairs or preventative measures. Section J of the survey report contains details where applicable, of flooding risks found within the boundaries of the property or on adjacent sites. Also included on Environment Agency's flood danger alert are details of local rivers and other bodies of water prone to flooding.
Arrange your Cardiff building survey with Surveyor Local
Get an online quote or call now on to talk to our friendly team today. You can also request a callback at a time that's most convenient to you. We're open late Monday to Friday and from 10am until 4pm every Saturday.