Get a free instant quote for a property survey in Central London
The surveyor who produces your report will be local to Central London 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 Central London Made Easy with Surveyor Local
Are you planning to buy a property in Central London? 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 Central London
No matter which part of this historic city you intend to purchase in, you can quickly and easily arrange the building survey you need through Surveyor Local.
From the biggest neighbourhoods such as Farringdon, Mayfair, Finsbury Park and Paddington to picturesque and historic spots like Belgravia and Marylebone, Surveyor Local can handle your building survey.
We only work with Central London-based chartered 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 Central London.
I intend to buy a flat in Central London. What sort of survey should I instruct?
Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Central London, the decision on which building survey is best will depend on several 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 Central London 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 listed building in Central London. What should we look out for?
Some buyers have looked at purchasing a home with character. Older construction methods and materials, however, can sometimes be an issue. Central London houses built with traditional methods can be surprisingly expensive to maintain, and you could also be required to find sympathetic construction materials, such as matching stone or wood. You should bear in mind that expert knowledge may be needed. This may mean it is a good idea to discuss current upkeep needs with the seller.
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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 Central London 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 Central London 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 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.
The property we plan to purchase in Central London is built on clay soil. Can we expect the Home Survey to mention this, and what defects will be reported on?
Factors from fungal decay to acid rain can cause major repair bills for a property-owner. Clay-rich soil, for example, is a potential source of a range of issues, with severe changes in the water table level and movement of clay soil layers resulting from changes in their water content being relatively common. There are two terms used to describe clay soils likely to be problematic, 'expansive' and 'reactive'. If a homeowner is aware that the surrounding soil has a high clay content, they should monitor for possible signs, such as a sticking door in the drawing room. There is a real benefit in booking a Central London surveyor to carry out your House Survey who is familiar with local soil composition, and who has witnessed the effects first-hand. If you are particularly concerned about a crack or other sign of movement, the surveyor can also report on whether it is recent, or an indication of much earlier subsidence.
We think this property is located on a flood plain. Is there a major flood risk? Would our Central London Homebuyer Report consider possible flooding?
Flooding in Central London can cause severe damage to both contents and property, and the value of a Central London property in an at-risk area may be impacted. A flood danger alert service, with regular updates, is operated by the Environment Agency. The Homebuyer Report may also, where appropriate, advise on needed maintenance. Preventative measures can include costly but effective solutions e.g. appropriate drainage. Oral enquiries can sometimes be made of the agent, but this information may not be accurate.
What will the Surveyor consider on a stucco coated Victorian house in Central London?
Stucco is really just a kind of smooth render. Normally stucco render is layered over red brick hardens to a flat surface, often then trowled to give the appearance of stone blocks. The effect is very grand in appearance and is often found on Regency buildings. It used to have lime in it as well as a plastic under mesh to help prevent cracks. it can be problematic, and Surveyors commonly discover defects e.g. trapped water leading to the surface falling away needing repair. Other issues could include when the application has been taken down to ground level and short circuits the Damp Proof Course. Re-coating Stucco problems may be difficult as the skills are getting harder to find.
Arrange your Central London 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.