Question 1

Is it worth getting a survey when buying a house?

Accepted Answer

It is absolutely worth getting a survey when buying a house! A surveyor will inspect the property thoroughly and inspect on any defects they find, potentially saving you hassle and cost down the line. They can also advise on issues you may wish to get the vendor to address before you buy, or give you the information you need to renegotiate the price to reflect any work that needs doing. You should always make sure your surveyor is Regulated by RICS, the professional body for Chartered Surveyors.

Question 2

How does a residential survey help buyers?

Accepted Answer

A residential survey helps buyers by providing peace of mind that there are no serious and potentially costly defects with the property they are planning to buy. It may also highlight issues you can insist on having the vendor address prior to your purchasing the property, or help you to renegotiate a better deal to reflect the costs of works that need to be done.

Question 3

What does a surveyor do when they come to your house?

Accepted Answer

When a surveyor comes to your house they will do a thorough inspection of the property, including all exterior components like roofs, chimneys, walls, windows and doors, and gutters, as well as the interior including the kitchen and bathrooms. They will access any non-habitable areas like lofts and cellars if it is safe to do so.

Question 4

What is the role of a building surveyor?

Accepted Answer

The role of a building surveyor is to advise on the health and condition of buildings. They are trained and experienced in spotting defects - both visible and hidden - that may cause homeowners expensive problems in future, and provide peace of mind to buyers that the home they are purchasing is in good condition and free of issues such as damp, timber rot, structural problems, and legal ambiguities over boundaries or rights of way.

Question 5

What degree do you need to be a surveyor?

Accepted Answer

To be a surveyor you need an RICS-accredited degree, either at graduate or undergraduate level. The RICS provides a list of accredited degrees on their website here: https://www.ricscourses.org