It’s a part of doing due diligence when buying a new property – it’s an unfortunate but necessary part: getting the building surveyed. It’s sad that many people skip this crucial step (especially first-time buyers), either because they don’t understand the importance of the survey, or because they don’t want to spend more money than they need to. However, having a survey done can literally save you thousands, if not ten thousands of pounds down the road.
The wise have a survey done. Still, there are many kinds of surveys out there, and even more surveyors who claim to give the best service for your money. So how do you select the right one? And where do you begin your search? Here’s how to select the best chartered building surveyor for your requirements.
Why get a survey?
Not only does the survey inform you of potential problems with the property (as well as its valuation), it also ensures you can plan your renovations or have a great bargaining chip with the seller regarding the price if you don’t like what you see. It can potentially save you tremendous amounts of money and time.
What kinds of surveys can I get?
Basically, there’s the condition report, the homebuyers report and the building survey. The latter gives the most detail and is always highest recommended, especially by expert surveyors Chelmsford such as those from Chekes & Co.
How do I select the right surveyor?
Here are some helpful hints:
- Check the qualifications. There needs to be a certain standard of knowledge and professionalism you can rely on. Make sure they are registered members of RICS (Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors). They are bound by certain standards that ensure your quality of service.
- Experience counts. Ask potential surveyors about their experience, and how they go about their job. Ask questions.
- Do they have references? It pays to know what work they have done before. A good surveyor will actually be proud to present references of past work done.
- First impressions matter. Follow your intuition; you need experience and knowledge, but you also need good communication.
- Ask for a price. Whilst price should come secondary, it’s important the price that is given to you is in line with the current market expectations.
In general, the building survey is the best kind of survey you can get – yes, it’s more expensive, but it gives you the most detailed report, and hence the best valuation of the property. This gives you not only the opportunity to plan your (possible) expenses of the future, it also allows you to negotiate with the seller and the mortgage lender, and it makes you sleep well at night knowing there won’t be any nasty surprises in the future. Choose your surveyor wisely – you won’t regret it.
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