Get a free instant quote for a property survey in Dorset
The surveyor who produces your report will be local to Dorset 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 Dorset made easy with Surveyor Local
Are you planning to buy a property in Dorset? 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 Dorset
Found a property you want to buy and need to arrange a building survey in Dorset? No matter which part of this historic county you intend to purchase in, you can arrange the building survey you need through Surveyor Local.
From the biggest towns such as Bournemouth, Ferndown and Wimborne Minster to picturesque and historic spots such as Christchurch and Shaftesbury, Surveyor Local can arrange the essential Dorset building survey you need.
We only work with chartered Dorset surveyors registered with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to guarantee you the highest quality service at affordable prices.
Read on to find the answers to our most frequently asked questions about building surveys in Dorset.
Do I need to upgrade to a building survey prior to purchasing a converted, Edwardian basement apartment in Dorset?
Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Dorset, 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.
Will there be any factors we need to verify if buying a period property in Dorset in a conservation area?
There are around ten thousand designated conservation areas throughout the country, which are governed by local authorities. Surveyors in Dorset must have sufficient knowledge of relevant local considerations and any relation they have on the building and its value. Property prices tend to be higher because many period properties have retained their original character and these areas are largely unspoilt. However, many conservation areas have been neglected and are in a poor state, mostly caused by unauthorised alterations to the fronts, roofs and chimneys of buildings.
RICS surveyors are expected tell you if the property is or might be within a conservation area and Section I of a Dorset Homebuyer Report will advise that further enquiries are conducted by the solicitor or conveyancer. Unauthorised adjustments to the building should be noted but these should be investigated by your conveyancer.
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What impact should high levels of rainfall have on a property in Dorset? We're concerned about replacement costs.
Regular rainfall is common in Dorset and across the country, but the impact heavy rainfall can have on homes is often overlooked by home buyers. If you have only seen the property you intend to purchase in dry conditions, issues may have been hidden and you may wish to ask your surveyor for more detail. That is not to say that drainage problems should cause you to reconsider a purchase. They are usually a simple matter to resolve, if caught early. However, if drains are left untreated, the resulting damage can lower the value of the property and become increasing harder to repair. In the worst-case scenario, deterioration of a building's foundations can become fatal to its structural integrity, risking collapse.
The estate agent mentioned there is a risk that panel boards below the windows are made of asbestos. What is asbestos and what are the risks?
Asbestos is a dangerous substance formed from metamorphic rocks. Often found in different materials, including duct connectors, it was commonly used for its good heat and chemical resistance properties. All forms are ultimately hazardous and can lead to lung cancer following prolonged exposure. If found, care should be taken on no account to move it yourself. Professional advice must be taken as soon as possible. Surveyors cannot tell you whether there is asbestos during the survey. Your Dorset surveyor will report on the potential of asbestos being present and should inform you of the options.
Does a RICS surveyor check out the safety of the gas appliances?
A RICS surveyor will locate and visually check out any easily accessible parts of the system. For instance, the survey will include the location of the meter in addition to gas affiliated installations, such as fixed external ventilation hearths. If there are any gas fittings, they will not actually be taken off. The system will not be tested. Most people are aware that gas can be deadly and if there are any concerns relating to gas installations, call a gas safe engineer.
We intend to offer on a partially constructed Bath stone house. What should we be aware of?
Buyers in Dorset should be aware that stone walls can be much weaker than they appear, with issues including deteriorating mortar affecting many stone-walled properties. Some defects affect regular or irregularly cut stone equally, whereas others will not, and may require a local surveyor's expertise to identify. A survey will include a range of suggestions or requirements for maintenance, such as clearance of nearby trees and plants. Pulling these up can cause more damage, so your surveyor may recommend a specialist perform the work. Quarries in Dorset should be able to supply local stone.
I'd like to find out more about the flood risk in Dorset. Does a Home Buyer's survey (RICS Level 2) check for flood damage, or whether flooding has affected nearby homes?
The distance a Dorset home is from the nearest river or coast is not the only measure of flood risk. In an exposed area the value of a property can decrease even if it has never flooded. The Environment Agency maintains a flood risk alert service, with regular updated risk assessments. Flood water can enter a house through several routes, including seepage through external walls. Section J of the survey report contains details, where applicable, of flooding risks found within the boundaries of the house or on adjacent sites. The Environment Agency also publish details of previous flood warnings.
Arrange your Dorset 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.