Best Chartered Surveyors in Warrington

What do surveyors look at in a house survey in Warrington?

When purchasing a property in Warrington, getting a survey is a smart step to protect your investment - especially given the town’s mix of older terraced houses, post-war semis, and new-build estates.

A Chartered Surveyor will carry out a detailed inspection to identify any risks, defects, or future repair needs.

A local Chartered Building Surveyor will assess the entire structure and condition of the property, with specific attention to features and issues common in the Warrington area:

• Major Internal Features: Including walls, ceilings, floors, staircases, and visible pipework.
• Damp and Mould: Particularly important in older Victorian terraces found in areas like Orford, Padgate, and Latchford, where poor ventilation or ageing damp proof courses are common.
• Insulation and Energy Efficiency: A focus in newer builds around Chapelford Village or Great Sankey, where modern standards may still vary.
• Structural Movement and Foundations: Surveyors look for cracks or signs of subsidence, especially on clay-heavy soils around South Warrington.
• Timber Decay or Infestations: Including checks for rot or woodworm in floors, lofts, and joinery, this is crucial in homes over 50 years old.
• Electric, Gas, and Drainage Systems: While not tested in detail, visible safety concerns or outdated systems will be flagged for further inspection.
• Environmental Hazards: Including flood risk zones near the Mersey, radon levels, or proximity to industrial sites.
• Invasive Plants: Japanese Knotweed is a known issue in parts of Cheshire and Merseyside and will be reported if present.
• Outbuildings and Garden Features: Garages, sheds, and boundary walls are included, especially where they are permanent or impact the value.

You’ll be provided with a comprehensive written report, typically within 3 to 7 days of the inspection. Depending on the level of survey this includes:

• A detailed summary of the property's condition
• Photos and observations of defects or risks
• Maintenance and repair recommendations
• Background information about the property and surrounding area
• An optional valuation (usually at extra cost)

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

When you're buying a property in Warrington, it’s important to understand the difference between a general surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor.

Surveyors in Warrington may have a range of backgrounds, training, and experience. While some are highly skilled, not all are formally accredited or follow a regulated code of conduct. Therefore, the quality and consistency of their service can vary and their reports may not always meet the standards required by lenders or legal professionals.

A Chartered Surveyor is a property professional who has completed extensive training and gained accreditation from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This is the highest level of qualification in the industry and provides several key advantages:

• Expertise and experience
• Strict professional standards
• Trusted advice 
• Dispute resolution support

This added level of security can be especially important with Warrington's mix of period properties and new builds. All Warrington surveyors on reallymoving are RICS regulated.

What are the different types of house survey available in Warrington?

If you're buying a property in Warrington, getting the right type of survey can save you from unexpected repair bills and help you make an informed decision. Whether you're purchasing a Victorian terrace in Latchford, a 1950s semi in Padgate, or a new build in Chapelford Village, there's a RICS-approved survey to suit your needs.

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offers three main types of property surveys:

RICS Level 1 Survey - Condition Report

• Entry level report designed to give a basic snapshot of a property's overall condition
• Suitable for new builds in great condition
• Uses a traffic light system to highlight issues, but does not include advice on repairs or maintenance 
• Average cost in Warrington for a Level 1 Survey is £300-£700

RICS Level 2 Survey - Homebuyers Survey

• Most popular choice in Warrington. Is a more detailed inspection of the property with advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance
• Can include a property valuation on request
• Suited for relatively new properties in reasonable condition 
• Average cost is £498.95

RICS Level 3 Survey - Building Survey

• Most thorough survey available. Includes in-depth inspection of the property's structure, highlighting significant defects, future risks, and cost estimates for future repairs
• Essential for older or more complex properties, such as period builds
• Average cost in Warrington is £661.29

The time it takes depends on the level of the survey and the property's size and condition. A Level 1 Survey might take around 1-2 hours, but a Level 3 Survey could take as long as a day depending on the size of the property. 

Most surveyors in Warrington aim to deliver your report within a week of the inspection, depending on complexity and availability.

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in Warrington?

If you're buying a home in Warrington, hiring a trusted Chartered Surveyor is an essential step in the buying process.

With reallymoving, you can easily compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors who operate across Warrington and the surrounding areas.

Using reallymoving is simple:

• Enter a few basic details about your property or move
• Instantly receive up to five quotes from RICS-regulated surveyors working in Warrington
• Review their services, fees, and customer feedback before choosing

All surveyors on reallymoving are independently credit-checked and regulated by RICS, meaning you can trust that they meet professional standards for quality, conduct, and reliability.

It's important to read reviews and testimonials, check for transparency with pricing, and look for good communication. A reliable surveyor will respond quickly, keep you informed, and deliver your report on time.