Local information
Based on reallymoving data from January 2021 to May 2023
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Average property price:
£304,827
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Average number of bedrooms:
2.20
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reallymoving movers:
1,560
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Average distance moved:
90 miles
This data is shared by reallymoving customers who used our Chartered Surveyors in Exeter. It shows the average Exeter property price, the number of rooms in the property, how many home movers chose a Chartered Surveyor in this area, and how far they moved for the Exeter property.
*Average saving based on data from Jan 2024 to Jul 2025.
What do building surveyors in Exeter inspect during a house survey?
Whether you're buying a Georgian townhouse in St Leonard’s, a Victorian terrace in Heavitree, or a modern flat in the city centre, arranging a property survey in Exeter is a smart move.
A Chartered Surveyor will carry out a thorough inspection of the property to highlight any defects or risks. This can give you the confidence to proceed or the evidence you need to renegotiate the price.
The depth your surveyor will go into when inspecting a property will depend on the type of survey you get. A typical house survey in Exeter includes:
- Structure and interior condition: Checking walls, ceilings and floors for cracks, movement, or other structural concerns
- Damp and mould: Common in older Exeter homes with original stonework or dated damp-proofing
- Roof and drainage: Especially important in hilly areas like Pennsylvania, where water run-off and roof condition play a key role
- Insulation and ventilation: Energy efficiency is often lower in older homes around Mount Pleasant or Stoke Hill
- Timber condition: Identifying rot, woodworm, or beetle infestation, particularly in period homes and cottages
- Utilities: Basic checks on visible electrics, plumbing and heating, important in student lets or older housing stock
- Subsidence risk: Properties in Exeter can sit on varied ground types, so movement checks are essential, especially in areas like Alphington
- Invasive plants: Including Japanese knotweed, sometimes found near railway lines or waterways such as the River Exe
- Outbuildings and boundaries: Checking sheds, garages, garden walls and fences
Once complete, you’ll receive a written survey report detailing urgent issues and areas of concern. Level 2 and 3 surveys will also include repair recommendations and general observations. Depending on the survey level, it may also include a market valuation and notes on the surrounding area.
In a growing market like Exeter, with rising demand from young professionals, families, and students, this report can help you avoid costly surprises or secure a better deal.
What’s the difference between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor?
If you’re buying in Exeter, understanding the difference between a general surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor is important for your protection.
- A general surveyor may have no official qualifications or oversight
- A Chartered Surveyor is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). They meet strict professional and ethical standards and must carry professional indemnity insurance
This is particularly important if you're buying:
- A listed property in Exeter’s Cathedral Quarter
- A converted student house in St James
- Or a riverside home in Exwick with potential flood risk
At reallymoving, all building surveyors are RICS-accredited and credit-checked, giving you peace of mind that your inspection is being carried out by a qualified, trustworthy expert.
What types of surveys are available in Exeter?
The best survey for your property depends on its age, condition, and type. Exeter has a mix of historic homes, 20th-century housing, and new-build developments, so picking the right survey is essential.
RICS Level 1 - Condition Report
- What it includes: A simple overview of the property’s condition
- Best for: New-build flats or modern homes in developments like Monkerton or Tithebarn
- Doesn’t include: Repair advice or valuation
- Typical cost in Exeter: £300-£700
RICS Level 2 - Homebuyers Survey
- What it includes: Identification of visible defects, repair suggestions and maintenance advice
- Best for: Homes built from the 1930s-1990s, such as in Whipton, Countess Wear or Pinhoe
- Can include: Property valuation
- Typical cost: £432 in Exeter
RICS Level 3 - Building Survey
- What it includes: A detailed inspection of structure and materials, including hidden defects
- Best for: Older or altered homes, ideal for Georgian or Victorian properties, barns, or extended houses
- Includes: Long-term maintenance advice
- Typical cost in Exeter: £580
How long does a survey take?
- Level 1: Around 1-2 hours
- Level 2: Typically, 2-3 hours
- Level 3: Up to a full day, depending on size and complexity
Survey reports are usually delivered within 2 to 7 working days, depending on the property and the surveyor’s availability.
How can I find a trusted surveyor in Exeter?
Using reallymoving, you can easily compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors in Exeter in just a few minutes.
Every surveyor on our panel is:
- Credit-checked and insured
- Familiar with Exeter’s varied property types
- Reviewed by local homebuyers
You’ll receive up to five instant quotes, tailored to your move, whether you’re buying a flat near Exeter Quay, a family home in Topsham, or an investment property for students.
Tips when choosing your surveyor:
- Look at customer reviews and turnaround times
- Make sure they’ve worked with similar properties to yours
- Confirm how soon they can deliver the report—especially if you're working to a tight deadline
A quality surveyor won’t just inspect your home thoroughly, they’ll communicate clearly and deliver a timely report, helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.
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