Surveys
Why do I need a survey and how do I know which survey I need?
A survey will help you to make a reasoned and informed decision on whether to go ahead with buying a property.
Before you decide to commit yourself legally, you can limit the risks by asking a chartered surveyor to answer the following questions for you.
- What is a reasonable price to pay for the property?
- Are there any serious or urgent defects or specific risks with the property?
Cost-effective peace of mind
Arranging your own survey is the simple, cost-effective way to avoid unpleasant – and perhaps expensive – surprises after moving in.
In some cases, the surveyor’s report may allow you to renegotiate the price of the property. Would you buy a car without an MOT?
Level 2 Home Surveys
Under 120 years of age.
In reasonable condition.
Not a listed building.
Level 3 Building Surveys
Over 120 years of age.
In poor condition.
Is a listed building.
Help-to-Buy Valuations
For when you come to sell the house or repay the government loan.
Accurate Private Valuations
An accurate valuation from a trusted RICS Registered Valuer.
Level 2 Home Surveys
Formerly known as a home buyers report, this tends to be the survey of choice for most customers. Any conventionally built houses which have been constructed in the past 120 years would require this level of report.
The Home Survey will be carried out by an experienced RICS registered surveyor with a strong local knowledge of the area. The surveyor will produce a user friendly report which includes photos and a traffic light condition rating for each element of the building (both externally and internally).
With clear identification of any defects and advice provided on what to do to remedy any problems this survey can prove to be a vital addition to the home buying process and prevent you encountering any nasty surprises once you have been handed the keys to your new home.
You will receive a phone call from the surveyor after the survey has been carried out with verbal feedback and explaining any findings. This is a step we feel is vital in connecting with our clients, we’re approachable and here to help.
Level 3 Building Surveys
This used to be called a structural survey. A building survey is a customised service suitable for all residential properties and gives full details of their construction and condition. You are likely to need this type of survey if, for example, the property is unusually built or run-down, if the property has been significantly altered, or if you are planning a major conversion or renovation.
Building surveys are usually tailored to your needs. The report includes detailed technical information on materials and construction, as well as details of the whole range of defects.
We would usually only advise this type of survey for older properties built more than 120 years ago.
RICS Help-to-Buy Valuations
Help to Buy is a government scheme that allows purchasers meeting certain criteria to share ownership of their new home with the government. If you have purchased a home using this scheme, you will need to get an independent valuation when you come to sell the house or if you wish to repay the government loan.
Unlike mortgages from banks, the help to buy scheme loans you a proportion of the property’s value, rather than a set amount of money. The amount that needs to be repaid depends on the value of the property at that moment in time.
Our RICS qualified surveyor and registered valuer will be able to assist with this and provide you with a certified valuation document to supply to Target.
Private Valuations
If you need a private valuation from a RICS Registered Valuer we can help.
Whether that is for a private sale, to release equity, capital gains tax or whatever your reason may be, get in touch and we will assist, providing you with an accurate valuation that is recognised by all the industry bodies.
Surveys & Valuations – Call 01642 205235
Trew Surveying are professional expert surveyors and valuers. All valuations are carried out by a RICS Registered Valuer, in accordance with the RICS Valuation, Global Standard (The Red Book). Trew Surveying are a Member of The Property Ombudsman.