Best Chartered Surveyors in Stoke-on-Trent

What do surveyors look at in a house survey in Stoke-on-Trent?

When you're buying a property in Stoke-on-Trent, arranging a house survey is a smart move, especially in a city known for its Victorian terraces, ex-local authority housing, and 1930s–60s semi-detached homes.

A Chartered Surveyor will carry out a comprehensive inspection to assess the condition of the property and identify any potential risks.

A Chartered Surveyor conducting a survey in Stoke-on-Trent will typically assess:

• All major internal features
• Signs of damp/mould: Common in older terraced homes found in areas like Burslem, Tunstall, or Fenton, where outdated damp proofing and ventilation issues may exist.
• Insulation levels: In lofts, walls, and floors, important in homes where energy efficiency upgrades haven’t been made.
• Structural integrity & foundations: Surveyors look for signs of subsidence, movement, or cracking, especially in homes built on former mining land, a known issue in parts of Stoke-on-Trent.
• Timber damage: Including rot, insect infestations, or woodworm in beams, floors, or roof timbers, often found in pre-1950s properties.
• Electric, gas & drainage systems: Visual assessments for age, condition, and safety; further specialist testing may be recommended if concerns are found.
• Environmental risks: Including flood zones, land contamination (especially near historic pottery or industrial sites), and proximity to busy roads or rail lines.
• Invasive or dangerous plants: Such as Japanese Knotweed, which is known to affect certain areas across North Staffordshire.
• Permanent outbuildings: Garages, sheds, extensions, boundary walls, and outdoor features,  especially where they affect value or may have been built without permission.

Following up on the inspection, your surveyor will provide you with a detailed written report outlining the findings. Depending on the level of survey you choose these reports can include: 

• The condition of the property 
• Any urgent or long-term issues found
• Recommended repairs and maintenance 
• Background information about the property's build and location
• A valuation (if requested - often at an additional cost)

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

It's important to know the distinction between a general surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor before arranging a house survey.

Surveyors in Stoke-on-Trent may have different levels of training and experience. Some offer basic inspections and valuations, but they may not always be formally qualified or regulated. This means their work might not meet the standards required by mortgage lenders or conveyancers, and you won’t have access to formal support channels if something goes wrong.

A Chartered Surveyor is a property professional who has:

• Completed rigorous academic and practical training
• Gained accreditation from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Committed to strict professional standards, ethics, and ongoing development

In a city like Stoke-on-Trent, with many older properties, ex-industrial land, and non-standard construction methods, using a Chartered Surveyor ensures you get trusted, high-quality guidance on the condition and value of the property.

They are also covered by professional indemnity insurance and offer formal complaint resolution through RICS, which gives you extra peace of mind.

All surveyors listed on reallymoving are RICS-regulated.

What different types of house survey are available in Stoke-on-Trent?

If you're buying a home in Stoke-on-Trent, arranging a property survey is a key step toward protecting your investment. 

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offers three main types of home survey, each designed to suit different property types and buyer needs.

RICS Survey Level 1 - Condition Report: The most basic and least detailed report. Provides a summary of a property's condition. Suited for new-builds. The average cost of a Level 1 Survey in Stoke-on-Trent is around £300-£700.

RICS Survey Level 2 - Homebuyers Survey: The most popular option, the Level 2 Survey includes a more detailed inspection, can identify potential problems, and can offer maintenance guidance. This survey is suitable for relatively new properties in decent condition. The average cost is around £498.95.

RICS Survey Level 3 - Building Survey: This is the most comprehensive survey, includes a deep dive into a property's structure, history, and condition. It is essential for older and more complex properties such as period homes or houses with major extensions and alterations. The average cost of a Level 3 Survey in Stoke-on-Trent is around £661.29.

The length of time a property survey takes will depend on the size and complexity of the property and the type of survey you choose. 

• A Level 1 Survey typically takes around 1-2 hours
• A Level 2 Survey can take around 2-4 hours
• A Level 3 Survey may take from 3 hours up to a whole day to complete

Surveyors in Stoke typically aim to deliver reports within a week of the inspection, though older or larger homes may take longer to assess thoroughly.

How can I find a trusted surveyor in Stoke-on-Trent?

When buying a home in Stoke-on-Trent, it's important to ensure you choose a qualified and trustworthy surveyor to inspect the property before you commit to a purchase.

With reallymoving you can easily compare RICS-accredited Chartered Surveyors who know the local housing market and can provide a professional and reliable service. 

To receive quotes simply provide a few details about your move or property and instantly receive up to five quotes from Chartered Surveyors working in Stoke-on-Trent. All surveyors are RICS-regulated and credit-checked, so you can book with complete confidence.

It is vital to check reviews and testimonials from real customers to help you make your decision when choosing a surveyor. This can help you find the best value for your budget, understand the level of service to expect, and can help you have a realistic idea of time frames and communications. 

Good surveyors in Stoke-on-Trent will be transparent with their fees and clear about what each type of survey includes. They’ll also communicate promptly to make the process as smooth as possible.