Best Chartered Surveyors in Bradford

What does a surveyor look at when inspecting a property in Bradford?

A crucial step in the house-buying process is getting a property survey. When you book a house survey in Bradford, a qualified RICS surveyor carries out a thorough inspection of the property to assess its condition, and structure, and identify any potential problems.

The exact details depend on the level of RICS survey you choose (Level 1, 2, or 3), but generally, here’s what the surveyor will check:

• Structural integrity: condition of roofs, walls, floor, ceilings, and foundations
• Damp and moisture: Homes in steeper parts of Bradford, such as parts of Allerton or Thornton, may be more prone to water ingress due to hillside positioning
• Roof space/lofts
• Heating, plumbing, and electrics (surveyors will not test systems but can highlight any visible faults)
• Windows and doors
• External areas
• Legal considerations e.g. shared access issues, planning permission, or Building Regulation compliance

If your survey uncovers issues that weren’t previously disclosed, you may be able to renegotiate the purchase price or ask the seller to fix the problems before completion.

This is especially important in Bradford, where many properties may have age-related defects like damp, outdated electrics, or roofing issues. If your RICS survey reveals concerns such as structural cracks, damp ingress, or roof deterioration, you could:

• Negotiate a lower offer to reflect the cost of necessary repairs
• Request that the seller addresses the issues
• Reconsider your offer entirely, particularly if the issues are more serious than anticipated

A well-documented survey report provides strong evidence to support your position and can help prevent overpaying for a property in Bradford’s competitive housing market.

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

When buying or selling property in Bradford, it's important to understand the distinction between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor, as it can directly affect the quality and reliability of your property inspection.

A surveyor is a general term for someone who assesses the condition, value, or structure of property or land.

• They may carry out home condition reports, valuations, or inspections.
• However, not all surveyors are formally qualified or regulated, meaning their standards and expertise can vary.
• While some surveyors may have years of experience, others may lack formal accreditation or oversight.

A Chartered Surveyor is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)—the leading professional body for property specialists.

To qualify, they must:

• Complete RICS-accredited training and education
• Gain substantial hands-on experience
• Pass the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC)
• Chartered Surveyors are regulated, insured, and held to strict ethical standards.
• They are entitled to use professional titles like MRICS or FRICS, which reflect a recognised level of trust and authority.

By choosing a Chartered Surveyor, you’re ensuring that your property is assessed by a highly qualified, accountable professional, giving you peace of mind in what is often your largest financial decision. All surveyors on reallymoving are RICS-regulated.

What types of house survey can I get in Bradford?

If you're buying a home in Bradford, a survey from a qualified RICS surveyor can help you understand the condition of the property and avoid costly surprises. There are three main types of RICS home surveys, each designed for different property types and situations:

RICS Level 1 Survey - Condition Report

Best for new builds or nearly new homes or modern properties in great condition. Ideal for newer developments in areas like Apperley Bridge, Thorpe Edge, or parts of Allerton.

What it includes:

• A summary of the property's condition
• Highlights of any significant issues
• Advice for legal advisors

What it doesn’t include:

• No valuation
• No repair advice
• No in-depth analysis

RICS Level 2 Survey - Homebuyers Survey

Best for conventional homes built after 1900 in reasonable condition

What it includes:

• A visual inspection of the property
• Identification of common problems (damp, subsidence, etc.)
• Repair and maintenance advice
• Optional market valuation and insurance rebuild costs

RICS Level 3 Survey - Building Survey

Best for older, larger, or listed buildings, properties needing renovation or with known defects, and unusual or non-standard construction

What it includes:

• A detailed inspection, inside and out
• In-depth analysis of condition and structure
• Advice on repairs, timelines, and costs
• Optional valuation (if requested)

In Bradford, a Level 3 Survey is highly recommended for Victorian terraces in Manningham, heritage homes in Saltaire, or any period property with visible or suspected defects.

If you're unsure which survey you need, a local RICS Chartered Surveyor in Bradford can recommend the most appropriate survey based on your needs and the local housing stock.

How can I find a trusted surveyor in Bradford?

You can use reallymoving to compare surveyors and quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors in Bradford. Simply provide a few details about your move, and you’ll receive up to five instant quotes from trusted professionals.

All of our Bradford-based surveyors are credit-checked and regulated by RICS, giving you peace of mind that you’ll receive a high-quality, reliable service.

It’s important to read reviews and testimonials when choosing your surveyor. This helps ensure you find the best deal for your needs, whether you're buying a Victorian terrace in Manningham or a semi-detached home in Wibsey. 

Reputable surveyors will be transparent about their fees and will have positive feedback from real customers.

A good surveyor will also be prompt and professional in their communication, helping your home-buying process in Bradford go as smoothly as possible.