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The surveyor who produces your report will be local to Gwynedd 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.
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Surveying in Gwynedd made easy with Surveyor Local
Are you planning to buy a property in Gwynedd? 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 Gwynedd
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 towns such as Blaenau Ffestiniog, Pwllheli, Porthmadog, and Bangor to picturesque and historic spots like Llanbedrog and Aberdaron, Surveyor Local can handle your building survey.
We only work with chartered Gwyneddnsurveyors 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 Gwynedd.
I intend to buy a flat in Gwynedd. What sort of survey should I instruct?
Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Gwynedd, 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 Gwynedd 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 Gwynedd. 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 Gwynedd 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 Gwynedd 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 Gwynedd 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 Gwynedd 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.
What input does a surveyor in Gwynedd give for a 1940s home with brick walls?
Brick-constructed properties in Gwynedd demonstrate several benefits compared to other types of construction, but they can also be subject to both minor and serious issues, such as frost damaged pointing. A serious concern is rapidly deteriorating cement mortar, caused by sulphate attack. This may require outright demolition of the wall, if discovered. Styles of brickwork can range from the relatively common, like Flemish bond, featuring alternating long and short faces of bricks, to the rare, such sailor bond is a decorative bond featuring vertically oriented bricks with their widest faces parallel to the wall. Consider the advice of both the surveyor and a builder or other specialist if potential structural defects arise during the survey.
I am purchasing a Gwynedd home and am concerned that the building might be in danger of movement. Can I expect the Property Survey to mention this, and what defects will be reported on?
Factors from dry rot to low-grade construction materials can cause high maintenance costs for a property-owner. Clay-rich soil, for example, is a potential source of numerous issues. Specific issues include soil swelling. The consequences may take years to be noticed or could be felt suddenly. Signs like sticking window frames or separation of the skirting board from the floor can be early indications of very serious structural issues. Steps like immediately acting to remove standing water around a property, as a result of heavy rainfall or flooding can help maintain clay-rich soil, but a purchaser should discuss specifics with the surveyor if extensive upkeep is warranted. Additional strengthening or support of the structure's foundations may be required, including underpinning or piling.
The property we want to purchase in Gwynedd is located near a river. Is this a major flood risk and would our building survey check for flood damage?
The lives of many property owners in Gwynedd and across the UK have been affected by floods, and the value of a Gwynedd house in an at-risk area may be impacted. The Environment Agency maintains a flood danger alert service, with regularly updated risk assessments, and a property surveyor will advise on repairs or preventative measures. An awareness of characteristics of the Gwynedd area likely to affect the property also enables the building surveyor to advise flooding may be a risk. The building surveyor may ask the current owner about historical floods, although the result of these inquiries should be treated as a guide only.
What will the Chartered Surveyor look for on a stucco regency house in Gwynedd?
Stucco is in fact just a smooth type of solid render. Normally it is applied to brick hardens to form a smooth stone like appearance. The finish is highly aesthetic and is often found on Victorian buildings. It is almost exactly the same as plaster. Sometimes it can contain lime in it in addition to a wire under mesh. to help prevent cracks. Stucco is often prone to defect and Gwynedd Home Buyers Surveys sometimes show issues such as trapped moisture leading to the surface breaking. Another example of problems associated with stucco might be when the stucco is taken down to ground level and bypasses the Damp Proof Course. Re-applying problems may be dear as the skills are getting rarer.
I have read that subsidence in Gwynedd can be a problem. What subsidence issues does a Property Surveyor report on?
Subsidence is movement in a building's foundations. In the majority of cases, subsidence can be fixed. In addition, some homes in Gwynedd are built with a variety of materials, and these will have varying rates of shrinkage. Collapsed drains, including mains drains, can cause subsidence by washing away or loosening subsoil. This is an example of groundwater subsidence. A sudden, severe shift in weather can also impact a house susceptible to further settlement, either because the structural integrity is already compromised, or due to the use of cheaper materials. The root cause of any subsidence must be found before repairs can commence. The removal of trees may make the problem worse, however, so professional advice should be sought. Structural brickwork may need to be dismantled and rebuilt, or more cosmetic areas can effectively be repaired with resin filling in the cracks. This can also be time-consuming, and inconvenient. Chartered surveyors should be able to identify a subsidence problem, while structural engineers may also be required.
Arrange your Gwynedd 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.