Surveys & Other Services
Surveys
Which Survey do I need?
If you are buying a home, we can offer you a Homebuyer Survey, known as a Level 2 which is the most popular choice or a Building Survey (also called a Level 3)
Knowing what you are buying can even save you money. Your report can be used to negotiate the price of the property and will help you decide whether to proceed with the purchase.
These surveys can also be helpful if you are selling, so that you are aware of any potential issues. This could help prevent difficult negotiations or a sale falling through at the last minute.
Buying a property?
Riddle & Co. provide RICS-approved chartered surveys that give you the facts you need to make an informed judgement about your purchase.
What do the different Surveys cover?
| Service Features | Level 2 (survey only) | Level 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Describes the construction and condition of the property on the date of inspection. |  | |
| Aims to identify any problems that need urgent attention or are serious. | | |
| Aims to identify things that need to be investigated further to prevent serious damage. | | |
| Aims to tell you about problems that may be dangerous. | | |
| Aims to show up potential issues and defects, before any transaction takes place. | | |
| Aims to help you decide whether you need extra advice before committing to purchase. | | |
| Aims to enable you to budget for any repairs or restoration. | | |
| Aims to advise you on the amount of ongoing maintenance required in the future. | | |
| Aims to establish how the property is built, what materials are used and how these will perform in the future. | | |
| Aims to describe visible defects, plus exposing potential problems posed by hidden defects. | |
Homebuyer Survey
The most common type of survey, also known as a ‘Level 2‘ survey and covers all aspects of a house.
Building Survey
Also known as a ‘Full structural‘ or ‘Level 3‘ survey. This is the most thorough type of property survey.
Why have an independent building survey?
Many buyers question the need of a survey once they have received a mortgage lender’s valuation report. However, a valuation report, which is often carried out as desktop evaluation without even visiting the property, is not comprehensive enough to tell you anything you need to know about the condition of the property.
RICS surveys are essentially property health checks. They are detailed inspections that check a property’s condition and structure. When buying a property, we would strongly advise any buyer to arrange an independent survey to ensure they are aware of any issues and future costs, for example, a new roof, or flooring due to rotten timbers.
Why have an RICS-approved chartered survey by Riddle & Co.?
Riddle & Co. assessed RICS surveys are thorough assessments of the condition of the property. This provides detailed, technical reviews and advice.
Our experienced surveyors are available at every step of the way to answer any questions you might have.
The right survey for your home
Riddle & Co. survey all types of residential property. We pride ourselves on a committed approach to individual client needs. Our process starts with a discussion about the property to ensure you get the survey you need.
If you have any questions about which would be the best choice for your property,
please give us a call
Other Services
Valuations & Specific Surveys
A Market Valuation will assess how much the property is worth using the criteria set out in the RICS ‘Red Book’ guidance document and will be carried out by an RICS Registered Valuer. The valuation is reached by considering property attributes and recent comparable sales for an evidence-based assessment, independent from estate agent appraisals.
If you are a homeowner and have concerns about particular aspects of its structure or condition, a Specific Defect Survey will provide insight. You will also receive advice on remedial measures and associated costs.
RICS surveys are essentially property health checks. They are detailed inspections that check a property’s condition and structure. When buying a property, we would strongly advise any buyer to arrange an independent survey to ensure they are aware of any issues and future costs, for example, a new roof, or flooring due to rotten timbers.
Market Valuations
If you have bought a house through a shared equity scheme, you may be required to carry out an RICS valuation.
Specific Defect Survey
This type of suitable if there is a particular aspect of the property that you are concerned about.
