Best Chartered Surveyors in Basingstoke

What does a surveyor look for during a house survey in Basingstoke?

During a house survey in Basingstoke, a Chartered Surveyor conducts an inspection of the property to assess its overall condition and identify any structural or maintenance issues.

The depth of the survey depends on the type requested, but generally inspects the following:

Internal features:

• Walls, ceilings, and floors: Checking for cracks, damp patches, or uneven surfaces
• Joinery and fittings: Examining doors, windows, skirting boards, and staircases
• Signs of damp or mould: Common in properties in older areas like Eastrop or near the River Loddon
• Insulation and ventilation: In loft spaces, roofs, and walls to assess energy efficiency
• Electrical, gas, drainage systems (these systems are not tested - only visually assessed)

External features:

• Structural integrity and signs of subsidence
• Timber and roof condition
• Environmental issues such as flood risks and nearby developments
• Walls, windows, and doors
• Roof coverings, chimneys, and flashings
• Permanent outbuildings, such as garages or garden offices
• Boundary walls and fences
• Driveways
• Presence of harmful plants, such as Japanese Knotweed

After the inspection, the surveyor will provide a report that:

• Summarises the condition of the property
• Highlights urgent or significant defects
• Offers recommendations for repairs or further investigations (Level 2 and 3)
• May include a property valuation (depending on the type of survey and if requested)

It's important to get a survey as it can; provide peace of mind, allow you to negotiate the price if issues are found, give you insight into future maintenance costs.

What is the difference between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor?

The difference between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor in Basingstoke lies primarily in professional qualifications, regulation, and credibility. If you’re buying or valuing property in Basingstoke, understanding this distinction can help you choose the right professional for the job.

A surveyor is a general term for someone who inspects buildings or land. They may work in various fields such as property, land, quantity (cost), or construction surveying.

However, anyone can call themselves a surveyor, it is not protected, so a surveyor may not be professionally qualified or regulated, their services may vary in quality depending on their experience and training.

On the other hand, a Chartered Surveyor is a surveyor who has been officially accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This professional status means:

• They have completed RICS-accredited education and rigorous training (including the APC: Assessment of Professional Competence)
• They’ve passed RICS membership exams
• They must follow the RICS Code of Conduct
• They are required to carry Professional Indemnity Insurance
• They undertake continuous professional development (CPD)

Aditionally, Chartered Surveyors are held to higher ethical and professional standards, clients can raise formal complaints with RICS, ensuring greater protection, and their reports are often required by mortgage lenders, solicitors, and insurers.

For peace of mind and a professional, accountable service, especially in property transactions in Basingstoke, choosing a Chartered Surveyor is strongly recommended. All surveyors listed on reallymoving are regulated by RICS.

What are the different types of house survey you can get in Basingstoke?

When buying a property in Basingstoke, selecting the right house survey is crucial for understanding the property's condition and making an informed decision. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offers three main types of surveys, each designed to suit different types of properties and buyer needs.

Here’s a guide to the different types of house surveys available in Basingstoke:

RICS Level 1: Condition Report

Best for:

• New builds or modern homes in excellent condition
• Buyers looking for a surface level overview of the property’s condition

What it covers:

• A summary of the property’s condition
• Highlights of urgent defects and visible risks
• Uses a traffic light system to rate different elements
• Does not include repair advice or a valuation

Average cost in Basingstoke:

£300 – £700. Takes around 1-2 hours to complete.

Suitable areas:

Modern developments in Beggarwood, Limes Park, or Chineham

RICS Level 2: Homebuyers Report

Suitable for:

• Conventional properties in reasonable condition, typically built after 1930
• Buyers who want detailed information on maintenance and repair needs

What it covers:

• A more detailed inspection than Level 1
• Reports on structural movement, damp, timber decay, insulation, and roof issues
• Identifies legal issues (e.g., boundary concerns)
• Optional property valuation

Average cost in Basingstoke:

Approximately £431. Typically takes from 2-3 hours to complete.

Suitable areas:

1930s–1990s homes in Brighton Hill, South Ham, or Kempshott.

RICS Level 3: Building Survey

Best for:

• Older properties
• Large homes
• Homes in need of renovation
• Homes with non-standard construction or visible issues

What it covers:

• A comprehensive and detailed analysis of the property's structure and condition
• Includes roof spaces, basements, outbuildings, drainage, and foundations
• Extensive reporting on defects, repair options, and maintenance recommendations
• May include repair cost estimates

Average cost in Basingstoke:

Approximately £648. Takes from 3 hours up to a full day depending on the complexity and size of the property.

Suitable areas:

Period properties in Old Basing, Cliddesden, or rural villages around Basingstoke

You can expect to receive the report back within 3-7 days after the survey.

How can I find a trusted surveyor in Basingstoke?

If you're buying a home in Basingstoke, working with a RICS-accredited Chartered Surveyor is essential to ensure you're making a fully informed decision.

You can use reallymoving to compare surveyors and quotes from RICS-accredited professionals in Basingstoke. Simply provide some details about your move and the property, and you’ll receive up to five instant quotes from local, trusted surveyors.

All surveyors on Reallymoving are:

• RICS regulated, meaning they adhere to high professional and ethical standards
• Credit checked, ensuring financial reliability
• Reviewed by real customers, helping you choose based on proven satisfaction

Remember to read testimonials and reviews: Look for surveyors with strong feedback from buyers in areas like Kempshott, Brighton Hill, or Chineham.

• Compare transparent quotes: Reputable surveyors will provide clear pricing with no hidden fees.
• Look for local experience: A surveyor familiar with Basingstoke will understand local construction styles and materials, soil conditions that may lead to subsidence in certain neighbourhoods, or flood risks near the River Loddon and other low-lying areas

Communication is key: A good surveyor will respond promptly and deliver the report on time, keeping your property transaction on track.