Buying a house is one of the most significant purchases most people will make in their lifetime. It’s an exciting and nerve-racking time, filled with emotions and decisions that could affect your future. One of the most important decisions you’ll make when purchasing a home is whether or not to have a survey done. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of surveys carried out by Building surveyors in Norwich when buying a house.
What is a Survey?
A survey is an inspection of a property by an RICS qualified surveyor. It is best to choose a surveyor who is a member of the RICS, as this professional body enforces the highest possible professional standards. Surveyors will examine the building’s structure, condition, and any potential problems that may need attention. They look for things like damp and structural defects, as well as problems like drainage issues and anything that might affect the value of the property.
The main two surveys most homebuyers choose are:
RICS Home Survey Level 2 – homebuyer’s report: A report that focuses on the condition of the property and highlights any major defects or issues like rising damp and subsidence.
RICS Home Survey Level 3 – building survey: A more detailed report which covers all aspects of the property, including how the property is built and potential problems that may arise from hidden defects.
Learn more about both of these surveys on our website.
Why is a Survey Important?
A survey is essential when buying a house because it can highlight any potential problems that may not be immediately visible to the untrained eye. For example, a building may have a structural issue that needs fixing, or there may be rising damp or rot that could lead to further damage down the line. A survey can provide a comprehensive report on the condition of the property and help you make an informed decision on whether or not to proceed with the purchase.
Legal Requirements
While there is no legal requirement to have a survey carried out by an RICS approved surveyor when purchasing a property, it is strongly recommended. However, if you are taking out a mortgage, your lender may require a valuation survey to ensure the property is worth the amount you are borrowing. This survey is not as detailed as a building survey, and it only assesses the value of the property rather than its condition.
Saving Money
While a survey may seem like an unnecessary expense when purchasing a property, it can save you a lot of money in the long run. If a survey identifies any significant issues, you may be able to renegotiate the sale price or ask the seller to fix the problems before completing the purchase. This could potentially save you thousands of pounds on repairs in the future.
Peace of Mind
Buying a home is a significant investment, and a survey can provide peace of mind that you are making a sound investment. Knowing the condition of the property can help you make an informed decision on whether or not to proceed with the purchase. It can also provide reassurance that the property is safe and won’t require costly repairs in the near future.
A survey carried out by Surveyors in Norwich is an essential part of buying a house in the UK. It can provide valuable insight into the property’s condition and highlight any potential problems that may not be immediately visible. Speak to us if you are not sure which survey to go for.