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RICS Home Surveys

Buying a new home? Need a survey? We know that buying a house can be a stressful and worrying process. After all, it’s probably the biggest investment you will ever make, so you’ll want to have peace of mind that it’s the right decision.

That’s where we come in, to help and support you make reasoned and informed judgements. A survey can assess whether or not the property is a reasonable purchase at the agreed price, make clear what decisions and actions should be taken before contracts are exchanged and ultimately, can help you decide whether or not you should proceed with the purchase.

We offer the following 3 types of RICS survey which can be tailored to any specific worries or concerns you may have. Our surveyors are also happy to talk through the findings of their report with you once they have made their inspection.

1. RICS Home Survey Level 2 (Survey Only)

The RICS Home Survey Level 2 (Survey Only) is equivalent to the old style HomeBuyer Report, and includes a detailed inspection of the property and uses a ‘traffic-light’ style system, written in plain English, to highlight any defects. It also includes advice on any repairs or maintenance, and guidance to legal advisors about issues that may need to be addressed before you buy. However, it does NOT include a valuation or comment on the effect any defects may have on value.

It is useful if you are sure that you do not need the opinion of a independent valuer or if you just need peace of mind about the condition of the property and the risks it may carry.

2. RICS Home Survey Level 2 (Survey and Valuation)

The RICS Home Survey Level 2 (Survey and Valuation) includes all the features of the Home Survey Level 2 (Survey Only) Report but it also includes the surveyor’s professional opinion on the ‘Market Value’ of the property, an insurance reinstatement figure and a list of problems that may affect value.  This independent valuation is very important if you want to be sure that you are paying the right amount for a property or need help negotiating with sellers.

This option remains the most popular choice and is suited to conventional properties built from common building materials which are in a reasonable condition.

3. RICS Home Survey Level 3

Once called a Structural or Building Survey, the RICS Home Survey Level 3 is suitable if you are dealing with a large, older or run-down property, a building that is unusual or has been altered in the past or if you are planning major works. It gives detailed information about the structure and fabric of the property and is the most thorough survey you can get.

An RICS Home Survey Level 3 does not include a valuation, but this is available as a separate extra service if you wish.

Check out this short film from the RICS which helps explain why a proper survey is so important.

We cover the whole of South Wales including Cardiff, The Valleys, Newport and Monmouthshire. Our prices start from £350 plus VAT and are based not only on the level of survey required but also on the purchase price and size of the property.
To discuss which type of survey might be right for you and to get a quote, please telephone or email us today and we will be happy to arrange everything for you.

Call us on 01685 378894 or 02920 625433

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