If you have discovered a home that you like and are in the process of purchasing it, it is a good idea to hire a surveyor who organizes a survey when buying a house for any damage or faults that could be costly to address later on. A building survey will give you information about the property and any relevant problems such as structural flaws, dampness, dry rot, and potentially hazardous threats such as asbestos.
Is a house survey essential?
When you’re already shelling out big bucks to buy a house or apartment, a survey may seem like an unnecessary extravagance. However, it is far preferable to be aware of any issues before purchasing a home so that you can make an informed decision about how much you are ready to spend for it and, if necessary, budget for any necessary repair work. You may also be able to use the survey results to haggle with the seller.
how to locate a surveyor
House surveyors differ in size from small one-person operations to major corporations. Regardless of who you use, be sure they’re a member of a trade group. Some homebuyers also use local classifieds, personal recommendations, and comparison websites to locate surveyors. In some situations, the estate agent or your mortgage lender may recommend a surveyor; but, before following their advice, you should conduct your own research to ensure you’re getting the best bargain possible, as the agent or lender may often receive a commission for making the recommendation.
How to Select a Surveyor
Finding a trustworthy chartered surveyor can be difficult, but don’t be afraid to ask your surveyor questions, so you know exactly what they’ll be doing for you. The majority of the owners purchased their property without a survey, resulting in hefty repair bills later on. It would help if you did not undervalue the importance of finding a qualified and certified surveyor. Here are some other methods for locating a reputable surveyor.
Location
You may have received suggestions for surveyors, but if they are not in your region, they are useless. If you now live in London but plan to relocate to York, you may be at a loss for recommendations. It’s critical to choose a specialist in the proper area, especially if they have local knowledge or a grasp of common building work in that area.
Price
It’s simple to go with the cheapest choice, but sometimes it’s worth looking at the alternatives and seeing if you can get anything more for your money. Remember that while a survey will cost you money, it will save you a lot of money in the long run.
Speed
Maybe you have a tight deadline? Choose a surveyor who specializes in speedy turnaround. This will also be dependent on availability. You don’t have to choose this service if you’re not in a hurry, although efficiency is usually beneficial. Before you book a surveyor, ask about their schedule and how long it takes them to write up the details.
Conclusion
Choose a surveyor who is willing to communicate with you, whether that means answering your questions before you book, explaining which survey you require, or calling you to go over the report after you’ve received it to ensure you understand it.
