Best Chartered Surveyors in Kent

What do building surveyors in Kent look at during a house survey?

When going through the house buying process in Kent, whether it’s purchasing a character cottage in Canterbury, a Victorian townhouse in Tunbridge Wells, or a modern family home in Ashford, arranging a house survey is crucial. A Chartered Surveyor will assess the overall condition of the property to help you avoid unexpected issues and make a well-informed purchase.

A building surveyor will carry out a thorough inspection and typically assess:

• All major internal features such as floors, ceilings, and walls
• Any signs of damp or mould, which are common in older properties and homes along the coast or in rural villages
• The quality and presence of insulation, vital for energy efficiency, especially in converted barns or period homes
• The structural integrity of the property and its foundations, especially important in properties built on clay-rich or coastal land
• Timber condition, including signs of woodworm, rot, or insect infestation
• Safety and functionality of electric, gas, and drainage systems
• Environmental concerns, such as flood risks in low-lying or riverside areas like Tonbridge or Sandwich
• The presence of invasive plants, such as Japanese knotweed
• Permanent outbuildings and outdoor features, e.g. garages

Following the inspection, the surveyor will provide a written report outlining their findings, depending on which type of survey you choose this can cover urgent issues, recommended repairs, and general observations. This can be especially useful in Kent, where many properties are listed buildings or located in conservation areas.

They may also include background information on the property and its local area. A current valuation can often be added to the report as an optional extra.

Even properties that look well maintained can have hidden problems, especially when it comes to roofing, insulation, or subsidence in older or coastal buildings.

If the survey uncovers any issues that weren’t previously disclosed, you may be in a stronger position to renegotiate the price or request the seller complete necessary repairs before exchanges which will save you time, money, and stress.

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

If you’re buying a home in Kent, understanding the difference between a general surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor is important.

While surveyors in Kent may vary in their qualifications and experience, a Chartered Surveyor is a professional who has completed rigorous training and assessment and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) - the leading body in the industry.

Chartered Surveyors are recognised for their expertise, professionalism, and adherence to strict industry standards. They’ve undertaken additional qualifications and are held accountable by RICS, meaning if anything goes wrong, there’s a clear route for complaints and dispute resolution.

This added level of assurance is particularly important in Kent, where you may be purchasing:

• A listed cottage in a conservation area like Faversham or Chilham
• A converted barn in the Weald
• Or a riverside home in Tonbridge that may come with environmental considerations like flooding

At reallymoving, all building surveyors we work with in Kent are RICS-accredited and credit-checked, so you can be confident you’re receiving a trusted, high-quality service, tailored to the unique conditions and challenges of the Kent property market.

What are the different types of surveys you can get in and around Kent?

If you're buying a property in Kent, choosing the right RICS survey is an important step in protecting your investment. With a wide variety of home types across the county, having a survey that matches the age and condition of the property is essential.

Here are the three main types of RICS surveys available in Kent:

RICS Level 1 Condition Report: This is the most basic survey, providing a general overview of the property’s condition. It identifies any urgent issues but does not include repair advice or a valuation. Best for new builds in great condition. Average cost in Kent is £300-£700.

RICS Level 2 Homebuyers Survey:  A more detailed survey that includes information on visible defects, necessary repairs, and ongoing maintenance. It may also include a property valuation. Suitable for relatively modern or well-maintained homes, such as 1930s semis in Tonbridge, or updated properties in Sevenoaks or Rochester.  The average fee for a RICS Level 2 Homebuyers Survey in Kent is £480. 

How can I find a trusted property surveyor in Kent?

If you’re buying a home in Kent, you can use reallymoving to quickly compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors across the county.

Simply provide a few details about your move, and you’ll receive up to five instant quotes from experienced local professionals who understand the unique challenges of Kent’s varied housing.

All surveyors on reallymoving are:

• Credit-checked
• Regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Trusted by Kent buyers for their regional knowledge and quality service

Before choosing your surveyor, we recommend reading customer reviews and testimonials. The most reputable surveyors in Kent will be transparent with their fees, responsive in their communication, and highly rated by other homebuyers - particularly helpful in fast-paced markets like Maidstone, Sevenoaks, or Tunbridge Wells.

A great surveyor will also be efficient and proactive, helping to move your purchase along smoothly by delivering clear reports on time - so you can move forward with confidence.