Best Chartered Surveyors in North London

What do North London surveyors look for during a house survey?

A Chartered Surveyor in North London will carry out a comprehensive inspection of a property to assess its current condition and identify any potential issues.

A building surveyor in North London will examine the following key areas:

• All major internal features: Including ceilings, walls, floors, doors, windows, and staircases - particularly relevant for converted flats and multi-level homes.
• Damp and mould: Common in older period properties across Camden, Crouch End, and Highbury, especially where insulation or ventilation is inadequate.
• Insulation and energy efficiency: In roofs, lofts, walls, and floors, important for buyers concerned about energy bills in older homes.
• Structural integrity and foundations: Key in areas built on clay-rich soil, such as parts of Barnet and Finchley, which may be prone to subsidence or ground movement.
• Timber condition: Checking for woodworm, dry rot or wet rot, especially in homes with original joists, sash windows, or exposed beams.
• Electric, gas, and drainage systems: Visual checks for age, safety, and signs of wear, with recommendations for specialist inspection if needed.
• Environmental risks: Including proximity to high-traffic roads, flight paths, flood zones, or historic landfill sites.
• Invasive plants: Such as Japanese Knotweed, which is a known issue in some North London postcodes and can affect mortgageability.
• Outbuildings and outdoor features: Including garden structures, boundary walls, extensions, and rooftop terraces, assessed for condition and compliance

Given the diversity of North London’s property stock, from century-old townhouses to modern developments along the Thameslink and Overground routes, a thorough survey helps you:

• Avoid expensive surprises post-purchase
• Understand structural risks like subsidence, damp, or poor alterations
• Make an informed offer or renegotiate the price if hidden issues are discovered

What is the difference between a surveyor and a chartered surveyor?

It's important to understand the difference between a general surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor before commissioning a property survey when buying a home.

Surveyors in North London may have varying levels of training and experience. While some can offer useful advice, they are not necessarily regulated or formally qualified. This means the quality, depth, and reliability of their assessments may vary. Their reports might not be accepted by mortgage lenders or solicitors.

In contrast, a Chartered Surveyor is a property professional who has:

• Completed rigorous training and qualifications
• Gained accreditation from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Agreed to follow a strict code of ethics and professional standards
• Is insured and subject to RICS complaints and redress procedures

This gives you extra peace of mind, especially when dealing with older properties, listed buildings, or homes with alterations, which are common throughout North London.

All surveyors on reallymoving are RICS-regulated and credit-checked.

What are the different types of surveys you can get in North London?

Commissioning the right type of survey is key to understanding your future home’s condition and protecting your investment.

There are three main types of RICS surveys, each suited to different types of properties typically found across North London.

RICS Level 1 - Condition Report:  A basic, snapshot overview of the condition of a property. This can uncover any major visible issues with a property, but will not offer advice on repairs or maintenance. Suitable for new builds. Average cost is £300-£700.

RICS Level 2 - Homebuyers Survey:  This more detailed survey includes an inspection of the property’s visible condition, identifies any major problems, and offers advice on necessary repairs and maintenance. It often includes a market valuation as well. Suitable for well maintained 20th century homes. The average cost of a Level 2 Survey in North London is £498.95.

RICS Level 3 - Building Survey: The most detailed and comprehensive survey. Provides an in-depth analysis of the complete structure and condition of a property. Includes repair advice and maintenance suggestions. If your property is older, such as a period build, you will need to get a Level 3 Survey. The average cost of a Building Survey in North London is £661.29.

The length of the survey depends on the survey type and complexity of the property:

• A Level 1 survey might take 1-2 hours

• A Level 2 survey could take 2-3 hours

• A Level 3 survey may take several hours or a full day for larger or older properties

Typically, you’ll receive your survey report within 2 to 7 working days after the inspection, depending on the the surveyor's schedule and the complexity of the report. 

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in North London?

You can use reallymoving to easily compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors in North London. Simply provide a few details about your move, and you’ll receive up to five instant quotes from experienced local surveyors who understand the unique property landscape of North London.

All surveyors on reallymoving are:

• Credit-checked
• RICS regulated
• Highly experienced with North London's property market

Before making your final decision, it’s important to read the reviews and testimonials from previous customers. A trustworthy surveyor will be transparent about their fees, responsive in their communication, and will deliver a detailed, clear survey report. This can help avoid costly surprises down the line.

A good surveyor doesn’t just inspect the property, they will also help ensure that your homebuying journey is as smooth, informed, and stress-free as possible.