Surveyors in Wales Surveyors

What type of house survey do I need?

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

RICS Level 3 Survey in Wales

RICS Level 3 surveys tend to be used to inspect the condition of older properties. The most thorough of the RICS survey levels and ideal for some of Wales' older, more rural properties, a Level 3 survey highlights any maintenance issues, repairs or defects. This can include an inspection of issues such as the possibility of asbestos, flooding, structural issues, subsidence and more.

RICS Level 2 Survey in Wales

RICS Level 2 Homebuyer surveys are ideal for general surveys of residential houses, built anywhere after 1900. Monitoring the structural integrity a home, a Level 2 survey can be expected to investigate issues like the roof condition, dampness, plumbing, electrical installations and more.

Property Valuation

The simplest of the three is a Property Valuation, which purely assesses the value of a property, without any details of defects. Perfect for newer properties, a property valuation can give either buyers, sellers or even investors a much clearer understanding of the worth of a property.

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 house surveys in Wales 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.

What survey level do I need for an older building?

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 RICS chartered surveyors in Wales 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.

What survey level do I need for an abandoned property?

A Building Survey (RICS Level 3) is the right choice of home survey if buying an unconventional house - such as a dilapidated house in Wales.

A Building Survey (RICS Level 3) specifies full and significant details in relation to the house's construction as well as any maintenance needs a thorough visual inspection of the accessible areas of the house.

What are the defects commonly found in stone walls in Wales?

External wall maintenance is essential to the health of property in Wales. Regular stone walls are built with prepared or cut stone, called ashlar, and are often easier to maintain than irregular walls. Different stone types will also decay at different rates based on environmental conditions.

Property surveys should give some repair guidance, like using traditional techniques when making repairs to the fabric of older buildings. The sheer breadth of varying stone materials can make it difficult for purchasers to correctly identify the particular stone used in the building of a home. Quarries in Wales should be able to supply local stone.

What subsidence-related matters will house surveys in Wales inspect?

Movement of the foundations of a home is called subsidence. In contrast to subsidence, heave can occur when a tree has been removed moisture builds up in the soil, causing the soil to swell, forcing the foundations above upwards, and can be as destructive as subsidence.

One such issue is that soil on sloping ground is not as stable as that flat ground. In very wet or flooded conditions, the soil layer may become unstable and start to slip downhill.

Removing or even pruning a tree(s) causing subsidence may be enough to halt any further movement. If the load-bearing parts of the property have been damaged, these may be repaired with steel rods to restore the structural integrity of the building. A definite diagnosis can in rare cases take months. House surveys in Wales can offer some advice and guidance if this may be the case.

Do chartered surveyors in Wales consider flooding?

It is strongly recommended that a home is protected before water damage starts. Flood water can enter a residence through several routes, including poorly installed doors.

The home survey will also include details of any evidence of historical flooding and may comment generally about the area's propensity to flood.

Will chartered surveyors in Wales detect asbestos?

Building or house surveys in Wales 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. 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.