Surveyors in London Surveyors

What type of house survey do I need?

Each of the different RICS surveys has different focuses, which should be considered by potential buyers based on their requirements.

RICS Level 3 surveys in London

This survey aims to pick up on structural issues and maintenance advisements.

RICS Level 3 surveys tend to be used to inspect the condition of older properties pre 1900, and detect issues that may be related to the property's age. These issues may include subsidence, flood risk, the safety of electrical wiring, the possibility of asbestos and more. 

A Level 3 survey in London will also take into account communal areas and roof spaces in blocks of flats or apartments, something that neither of the other survey levels will inspect.

RICS Level 2 surveys in London

Level 2 Homebuyer surveys are ideal for general surveys of residential houses, built anywhere after 1900. Level 2 surveys assess a home's condition, inlcuding its structural integrity, dampness, the condition of its roof, plumbing, electrics and more.

Property valuation in London

The simplest of the three is a Property Valuation, which purely assesses the value of a property, without any details of defects. They are great for newer properties in London and allow buyers, investors and developers alike to understand the worth of the property. So if you're looking to budget for a freehold purchase or buy the rest of your home to get an in market valuation, you may benefit from this survey level.

Take a look at our compare surveys page to get a more detailed understanding of each of the three survey levels.

How much does a survey cost in the UK?

Depending on the service that you require and your property's size and value, the cost of surveying your property can differ. Let us know what type of survey you need for your property and receive either a Property Valuation Quote, a RICS Level 2 Survey Quote or a RICS Level 3 Survey Quote.

Will RICS surveyors in London detect asbestos?

A property survey in London 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. 

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.

Does rendering make a difference?

Brick-constructed properties feature several advantages. However, they can also indicate a range of defects, such as inadequate damp-proofing, which may be present in older London homes. A defect often found is rusted ties (this decay can be accelerated by black ash mortar often found in older properties). This expansion of the ties as they rust causes horizontal cracks leading to structural issues. 

Will a RICS surveyor in London report on a property's clay soil foundations?

Issues with clay soil range from compression of layers of the sub-soil to swelling of the soil, both of which can put a property's foundations under great strain.

In London's relatively mild climate, the variations in volume which clay soil experiences will be barely noticeable but extended dry or wet spells may well impact the soil's stability and affect the property itself. For example, small cracks in the kitchen floor may be benign, or a clue prompting a more thorough investigation.

Do London surveyors check for flood risks?

For those living around the River Thames or Rodney and Lea Valley areas, water related issues are far more prevalent in London. As with many aspects of home ownership, flood prevention is better and cheaper than a cure. The surveyor may ask the estate agent about historical floods, although the result of these inquiries should be treated as a guide only.

What sort of issues will London Surveyors look for on a stucco rendered regency home?

Particularly for those living near London's rivers and valleys, stucco is often problematic and London Homebuyer Reports (RICS Level 2) commonly detail issues with damp problems. Other potential problems could include attacks from salts derived from wet bricks. Re-covering problems may be dear as renderers are getting more difficult to find.