Local information
Based on reallymoving data from January 2021 to May 2023
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Average property price:
£194,938
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Average number of bedrooms:
2.50
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reallymoving movers:
2,265
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Average distance moved:
53 miles
This data is shared by reallymoving customers who used our Chartered Surveyors in Preston. It shows the average Preston 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 Preston property.
*Average saving based on data from Jan 2024 to Jul 2025.
What does a surveyor do when inspecting a property?
When you instruct a Chartered Surveyor in Preston, they will perform a thorough inspection of the property, assessing both visible issues and potential hidden risks. A surveyor in Preston will typically examine:
- Structural integrity of the property and its foundations
- All major indoor features, including walls, ceilings, and floors
- Signs of damp, mould, or condensation, often found in older terraced homes around Deepdale and Plungington
- Roof condition and insulation levels
- Timber damage such as rot or woodworm
- Plumbing, electrics, gas supply, and drainage systems
- Environmental issues, including flood risk (relevant in some areas near the River Ribble and Ribbleton Brook)
- Problematic plants such as Japanese Knotweed, which has been reported across parts of Lancashire
- Permanent outbuildings, garages, and garden structures
After inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the condition of the property, highlighting any repairs needed, and recommending further investigations where necessary. Some surveyors also provide an independent valuation, though this may be an additional service.
Getting a survey is especially important in Preston, where the housing stock is diverse. The city has rows of Victorian and Edwardian terraces, post-war housing estates, and modern new-build developments in areas like Cottam and Fulwood. Each type comes with its own risks, from outdated wiring and damp in older properties, to potential snagging issues in newer homes.
A survey can give you the confidence to move forward with your purchase or the leverage to renegotiate if costly issues are uncovered.
What is the difference between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor?
In Preston, you may come across surveyors with varying qualifications. A Chartered Surveyor, however, is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which represents the highest professional standard in the industry.
The difference is:
- Surveyor: May have some training or experience but not necessarily RICS-accredited.
- Chartered Surveyor: Fully trained, RICS-qualified, and required to follow strict codes of conduct and professional standards.
Opting for a Chartered Surveyor provides reassurance, as RICS offers consumer protection and a formal complaints process if needed.
All surveyors on Reallymoving are RICS-regulated and credit-checked, meaning you can be confident you’ll receive professional, impartial advice.
What types of house surveys are available in Preston?
There are three main types of RICS surveys, and the right choice depends on the property type and condition:
- RICS Level 1 (Condition Report) – £300-£700
A basic overview of the property’s condition. Best suited for newer builds, such as modern developments in areas like Cottam or Buckshaw Village.
- RICS Level 2 (Homebuyers Survey) – Average cost: £498.95
A mid-level survey with advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance. This is well-suited to 20th-century semis and terraced homes, which are common in neighbourhoods such as Ashton-on-Ribble and Lea.
- RICS Level 3 (Building Survey) – Average cost: £661.29
The most comprehensive option, ideal for older or larger homes. Recommended for Preston’s Victorian and Edwardian terraces, stone cottages in the surrounding villages, and properties that have been heavily extended.
Typically, a survey will take:
- Level 1: Around 1-2 hours
- Level 2: 2-4 hours
- Level 3: Up to a full day, depending on complexity
Reports are usually provided within a few days to a week after the survey. This can differ depending on the demand at the time.
How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in Preston?
Reallymoving makes it simple to compare surveyors in Preston. By entering your details, you’ll get up to five instant quotes from local, RICS-accredited surveyors, helping you choose the right professional for your needs.
When choosing a surveyor, consider:
- RICS accreditation, all reallymoving surveyors meet this standard.
- Local expertise, Preston surveyors understand common issues such as damp in older terraced housing, subsidence risks on clay soil, and flood-prone areas near the Ribble.
- Transparent pricing, reliable surveyors will be upfront about their fees.
- Customer reviews, positive testimonials highlight surveyors who are responsive, thorough, and professional.
A good surveyor will not only provide a detailed report but also be available to explain their findings clearly, ensuring you feel fully informed before making one of the biggest financial decisions of your life.
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