Surveyors in East Riding

I intend to buy a flat in East-Riding-of-Yorkshire. What sort of survey should I instruct?

Whatever type of property you intend to buy in East Riding, 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 East-Riding-of-Yorkshire 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.

Will a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) go into detail on the general state of the electrical system?

Whether carrying out a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) or a Building Survey (RICS Level 3), an East-Riding-of-Yorkshire 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.

We are purchasing a house in East-Riding-of-Yorkshire. Will the surveyor check for any flood damage, or if neighbouring property has been affected?

Your East-Riding-of-Yorkshire RICS surveyor may use several methods to determine if the house in question is in danger of flooding. In addition, the house survey may recommend maintenance. It will also include details of any evidence of historical flooding and may comment generally about the area's propensity to flood. The Environment Agency also publish details of previous flood warnings.

We are interested in buying a property in an East-Riding-of-Yorkshire conversation area. 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 an East-Riding-of-Yorkshire 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.

How will we know what effect damp weather may have had on our new property?

Regular rainfall is common in East-Riding-of-Yorkshire and across the country, but the impact wet weather can have on East Riding homes is rarely considered properly by purchasers. Signs that drainage is blocked include water pooling below gutters, which can lead to damaged foundations. Fortunately, drainage problems are usually easy to repair, if identified early. However, if the drains are poorly maintained, the resulting damage can lower the value of the property and become increasing harder to repair.

Does the chartered surveyor give details on the condition of the gas supply?

Your RICS surveyor will locate and visually examine the accessible parts of the gas system. This will include gas heaters at the home in addition to gas related fittings such as chimney maintenance and the flue. Gas fittings will not be removed, and the system will not be tested at all. Most people are aware that gas is potentially fatal. If you have any worries relating to gas installations at all, we suggest you call a gas engineer.

Gas regulations require that all landlords must complete appliance and installation inspections every year. Non-compliance penalties include heavy fines or imprisonment.