Best Chartered Surveyors in Plymouth

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

Booking a house survey is an essential step in your Plymouth home-buying journey. A survey can make sure that you have a full picture of the property you are purchasing and can avoid unexpected costs down the line.

During a survey, a Chartered Surveyor will carry out a detailed inspection of the property to assess its condition and flag any issues that could affect its value, safety, or future maintenance.

The level of depth that your surveyor will go into will depend on the type of survey you choose. Things a building surveyor in Plymouth will typically inspect:

• All major indoor features: walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows, and staircases.
• Signs of damp or mould, especially in older stone-built or coastal properties where moisture issues are more common.
• Insulation and ventilation: Assessing the thermal performance of the property, especially important in pre-1960s homes.
• Structural integrity and foundations, including checks for subsidence or movement, which can be a concern in some parts of Plymouth with clay soils or historic land use.
• Timber damage: looking for signs of rot, woodworm, or decay, particularly in period homes or loft spaces.
• Electric, gas, and drainage systems: visual inspections for outdated or potentially unsafe installations.
• Environmental issues for example, flood risk (especially near the River Plym or the waterfront), noise pollution, or historic mining activity.
• Dangerous or invasive plants, Such as Japanese Knotweed, which can be found in parts of Devon and can cause property damage and mortgage issues.
• Permanent outbuildings and outdoor features: garages, sheds, boundary walls, and extensions, all assessed for condition and legal compliance.

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

The key difference between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor lies in qualifications, experience, and professional recognition.

• Surveyor: This is a general term that refers to anyone who conducts property inspections or land measurements. A surveyor may work in various areas such as building surveys, valuations, or construction monitoring. However, not all surveyors are formally accredited or qualified by a professional body.
• Chartered Surveyor: A chartered surveyor is a professional who has met the high standards set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). To become chartered, surveyors must undergo rigorous training, have relevant academic qualifications, and pass the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC). They are entitled to use the designation MRICS or FRICS and must adhere to strict ethical and professional standards.

In Plymouth, where the property market includes a mix of historic homes, coastal developments, and modern housing, using a Chartered Surveyor ensures a higher level of assurance. Whether you're buying an older Victorian property near the Hoe or investing in new builds around Derriford, a chartered surveyor can provide in-depth, reliable assessments backed by industry regulation and insurance.

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

What are the different types of RICS surveys I can get in Plymouth?

When buying a property in Plymouth, you can choose from three main types of RICS surveys, each suited to different property types, ages, and conditions. These are designed to help you understand the condition of a property before you commit to purchasing. It is important that you get the right survey.

RICS Level 1 Survey - Condition Report

This is the most basic RICS survey and is ideal for new build properties in good condition.

A Level 1 Survey will include:

• A summary of the property's condition
• Identification of urgent defects
• Basic guidance on legal issues

What it doesn't include:

• No valuation
• No detailed advice
• No repairs guidance

In Plymouth this might be suitable for newer builds in areas like Sherford or parts of Derriford.

RICS Level 2 Survey - Homebuyers Survey

This is the most popular choice for typical buyers and is suited to conventional properties in reasonable condition, and properties built within the last 100 years

A Level 2 Survey includes:

• A more detailed inspection
• Advice on repairs and maintenance
• A market valuation (if requested)
• Insurance rebuild costs

In Plymouth this is great for 1930s–1970s houses in areas like Peverell, Hartley Vale, or suburban Plymstock.

RICS Level 3 Survey - Building Survey

This is the most comprehensive option and is best for older or listed buildings, properties in poor condition, and renovation projects or non-standard constructions

What it includes:

• An in-depth structural assessment
• Detailed advice on defects, repairs, and maintenance
• Commentary on potential hidden issues
• Market valuation upon request

In Plymouth this is highly recommended for Georgian or Victorian homes near the Hoe, waterfront terraces, or rural properties in areas like Roborough and Wembury.

The right survey depends on your property’s age, condition, and location. If you're unsure, a local RICS chartered surveyor can advise you based on Plymouth’s unique property mix.

How can I find a trusted surveyor in Plymouth?

Arranging a reliable survey is a key step to making an informed property purchase in Plymouth.

With reallymoving, you can easily compare quotes from RICS-accredited Chartered Surveyors who understand the local property landscape across Plymouth and the surrounding areas.

Simply enter a few details about your move, and you'll receive up to five instant quotes from RICS-regulated and credit-checked surveyors operating in and around Plymouth.

Whether you’re buying in Plympton, Stoke, or Sherford, you'll be matched with surveyors experienced in everything from historic naval buildings and period terraces to modern seafront apartments.

When searching for a surveyor make sure to read customer testimonials to find trusted local surveyors with a track record of quality service in Plymouth.

Look for surveyors who are transparent with their pricing and clearly explain what each survey includes. A good surveyor will provide prompt communication and timely delivery of your report, especially important if you're working to a moving deadline.