Best Chartered Surveyors in Sunderland

What does a surveyor do when inspecting a property?

Buying a property in Sunderland? Whether you’re eyeing a terraced home in Pallion, a seaside retreat in Roker, or a modern flat near the city centre, getting a house survey from a Chartered Surveyor is a wise move. Sunderland’s mix of Victorian housing stock, ex-local authority homes, and newer developments means that a thorough inspection can uncover issues you wouldn’t spot on a viewing.

A building surveyor in Sunderland will assess:

• All major indoor structural features, including walls, ceilings, floors, and stairs
• Signs of damp, mould, or condensation, especially common in older brick-built terraces
• Effectiveness of insulation and energy efficiency
• The overall structural integrity of the property and its foundations
• Timber condition, looking for signs of woodworm, dry rot, or other damage
• The state of the electric, gas, plumbing, and drainage systems
• Any local environmental risks, including potential flood zones near the River Wear
• Identification of invasive plants, like Japanese knotweed
• Condition of permanent outbuildings, boundary walls, fences, and garden structures

After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report highlighting any concerns, alongside expert advice on repairs or further investigations. Many surveyors will also offer a property valuation, sometimes as an optional add-on.

A survey is essential for making an informed decision and can help you avoid unexpected costs. If problems are uncovered, it may even help you negotiate the price or request repairs before completion.

What's the difference between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor?

In Sunderland, you’ll find professionals with varying levels of experience. However, a Chartered Surveyor is a title that indicates the person has been accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

A RICS Chartered Surveyor:

• Has undergone extensive training and qualifications
• Follows a strict code of conduct and professional standards
• Can be held accountable by RICS, giving you additional peace of mind
• Brings expertise in local housing types, including stone-built homes, social housing, and converted properties

All surveyors available via reallymoving are RICS regulated, so you can trust that you’re working with skilled, reliable professionals.

What types of surveys can you get in Sunderland?

The right survey depends on the age, condition, and type of property you’re buying. In Sunderland’s varied housing market, you can choose from three types of RICS surveys:

RICS Level 1: Condition Report

• Suitable for new homes in great condition or new builds
• Offers an overview of the property's condition and urgent issues
• Cost ranges from £300-£700

RICS Level 2: Homebuyers Survey

• Best for well-maintained homes built after 1900
• Covers repairs, maintenance advice, and minor structural issues
• Average cost: £498.95

RICS Level 3: Building Survey

• Best for older homes, ex-council houses, or properties needing renovation
• Will include a full structural analysis and long-term maintenance considerations
• Average cost: £661.29

Survey durations vary:

• Level 1: 1-2 hours
• Level 3: Up to a full day

Reports are typically sent within a few days to a week following the survey.

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in Sunderland?

With reallymoving, it’s easy to compare RICS-accredited surveyors in Sunderland. Simple, enter your property and moving details, get up to five free, instant quotes from trusted local surveyors, and compare prices, services, and real customer reviews.

All surveyors on reallymoving are:

• RICS regulated
• Credit checked
• Transparent about fees and service levels

It is also important to look for surveyors with experience in Sunderland’s coastal properties, ex-local authority homes, and regional construction types. A good surveyor will be responsive, thorough, and helpful throughout the process.