If you’re in any doubt at all, it’s probably worth doing, says Peter Hart, Home Suryveing Managing Director
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people ever make. A well-informed decision matters. Knowing the property is in good condition matters just as much. Maybe the place went up last year. Maybe builders finished it the century before last. Either way, if you have concerns about ongoing costs, bring in a professional, impartial advisor.
This is where an RICS surveyor comes in.
What an RICS surveyor does
An RICS surveyor is a trained, qualified professional who inspects and evaluates property condition. Spotting issues or problems that others might miss is their specialty. You then receive a detailed report on their findings.
The value of independence
The biggest benefit? An RICS-qualified surveyor stays independent and impartial. They have no vested interest in the sale. Their assessment of the property’s condition is honest and unbiased. This matters. You learn about any issues before you proceed. Making an informed decision without worrying about hidden agendas becomes much easier.
Choosing the right survey
A good surveying firm helps you pick the right type of survey. The choice depends on the age and type of property. Whichever one you choose, the report gives you the information you need to make informed decisions. You might use it to negotiate the price. Repairs can also be requested before you complete the purchase.
What the surveyor inspects
Once you choose your surveyor, they attend the property. The structure, roof, walls, floors and other key areas all get assessed. Signs of damp, rot or pest infestations are part of the check. Any outbuildings or garages that come with the property are inspected too.
Regulations and compliance
RICS surveyors know a lot about building regulations, planning permission and building control. Whether previous changes or improvements meet these rules is something they can confirm. This gives you peace of mind. The property you’re buying is safe and legal.
Saving you money
Most importantly, hiring an RICS surveyor before you buy can save you money in the long run. You go into the purchase with all the facts at your fingertips. Knowing what you might need to spend on in future helps too. Negotiations can then be planned before you commit. We have saved some customers literally hundreds of thousands of pounds. Safeguarding people’s hard-earned cash this way is something we’re proud of.
Peace of mind
Honestly, our favourite cases involve a different outcome. The purchaser has a niggling doubt about the property. The surveyor attends and confirms the issue is not as bad as the buyer feared. The sale then progresses without a hitch. You can’t put a price on peace of mind.
Contact Home Surveying today to learn more about how our RICS-qualified surveyors can help you make an informed and financially wise property purchase.
