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The surveyor who produces your report will be local to Sheffield 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 Sheffield Made Easy with Surveyor Local
Are you planning to buy a property in Sheffield? 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 Sheffield
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 established neighbourhoods such as Crookes, St Paul's, Walkley and Fulwood, to picturesque and historic spots like Dore and Hillsborough, Surveyor Local can handle your building survey.
We only work with Sheffield-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 Sheffield.
I intend to buy a flat in Sheffield. What sort of survey should I instruct?
Whatever type of property you intend to buy in Sheffield, 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 Sheffield 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 Sheffield. 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 Sheffield 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 Sheffield 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 Sheffield 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.
If we are purchasing in Sheffield, what advice would a property surveyor in Sheffield give for a property with English bond walls?
Brick apartments experience diverse problems, including weathering and crumbling mortar. For instance, thermal or other movement. Often vertical cracks appear above the level of the DPC, running the full height of the wall, where this seasonal expansion and contraction occurs and should be taken very seriously. If the surveyor does raise concerns about a brick wall defect or structural issue, it may be wise to speak to a builder before completion to assess the extent and cost of the work.
I am buying a home in Sheffield. Can clay soil foundations be an issue? Does the Sheffield Building Survey cover this, and will the Surveyor advise on upkeep?
Factors from fungal decay to low-grade construction materials can cause difficulties for a homeowner. Clay-rich soil, for example, is a potential source of several issues. Subsidence is a major concern, but there are others, including uneven soil compaction. Defects can be obvious to the naked eye or may remain undiscovered (and therefore untreated) for years, such as a difficult-to-open lounge window. Taking precautions, such as even minor landscaping so that the ground slopes away from the property, can make long term maintenance easier, and keep repair costs manageable.
Will the Sheffield property surveyor look for flood damage, or if nearby homes have been affected?
A wide variety of factors can cause flooding damage, from inadequate drainage to tidal activity. Both house purchasers and home owners in areas at a high risk of flooding are right to be worried. Your RICS surveyor may use several methods to determine if the Sheffield house in question is in danger, and a property surveyor will advise on repairs or preventative measures. Familiarity with characteristics of the local area likely to affect residence enables the RICS surveyor to surmise flooding may be a risk, even if the property has not itself flooded before, the data used to compile third-party flood assessments also takes into account flood defences and historic claims.
We are planning to buy a home in Sheffield and have spotted that the windows in the basement did not line up. What are the risks, and what subsidence issues does the Sheffield Surveyor report on?
Subsidence is the movement of the foundations of a home that compromises its structural integrity, although most homes experience some minor cracking. Heave is less common and is caused by the death or removal of a large shrub or tree and the plant stops drawing moisture from the earth, allowing it to expand and push the foundations upwards. Merely superficial cracks not caused by subsidence can be filled and repainted. Inside, keep an eye out for new cracks in the plaster, and 'rippling' in wallpaper that isn't caused by dampness. Restoration work cannot begin until the original source of the movement is found. Removing or even pruning the trees causing subsidence may be enough to halt any further movement, although this might exacerbate the problem, so expert advice and direction should be sought before starting work. Existing trees must be well-managed, and new trees should be planted at a safe distance from the exterior walls of you and your neighbours' properties. Place pine, birch and cherry trees, for example, at least 10m away. Underpinning could be the only option in some cases, unfortunately. A surveyor will be able to recommend who to speak to about the best course of action, when it comes to tree removal.
What sort of issues will a Property Surveyor look for on a stucco rendered regency home in Sheffield?
Stucco (aka pargetting) is in fact just a form of render. Usually, stucco is applied to brick that sets to a smooth surface that is sometimes scored to resemble stone. The effect is very attractive and was found on Victorian and Georgian houses. It is made from an aggregate, a binder and water. Stucco is often problematic and Sheffield Homebuyer Reports (RICS Level 2) commonly detail issues which might include trapped water resulting in 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.
Arrange your Sheffield 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.