Best Chartered Surveyors in West Midlands

What does a surveyor look for during a house survey in the West Midlands?

A house survey is an expert inspection of a property's condition. It helps identify structural issues, maintenance concerns, or hidden defects that might affect the value or safety of a home before purchasing.

A Chartered Surveyor will look at multiple aspects of a property. Depending on the type of survey you get, a West Midlands surveyor will look at:

Regional issues

• Subsidence risks, especially important in areas such as Walsall and Dudley that sit above historic coal mining zones
• Clay soil movement
• Older brickwork

External checks

• Roof tiles, chimneys, and guttering
• Wall condition
• Window frames
• Timber condition
• Drainage and visible pipework
• Driveways, garden boundaries, garages, and outbuildings

Interior elements

• Signs of damp and mould
• Wall and ceiling cracks
• Floor level changes
• Loft space and insulation
• Boiler and radiator condition and placement (a surveyor will not do a full test)
• Electrical systems (visual inspection)
• Plumbing (visual inspection of condition and setup)
• Ventilation

After the survey is completed, your building surveyor will provide you with a written report highlighting issues found. A Level 2 and Level 3 Survey will also include recommendations for repairs and maintenance.

A survey is crucial in the home-buying process. It ensures you have a full view of a property's condition and are aware of any repair costs you may need to pay in the future. Additionally, if issues are found that a seller has not disclosed you can use the survey results to renegotiate the price or ask that these issues are resolved before your purchase. 

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

A surveyor is a professional who assesses properties, land, or construction projects. In the context of home buying, a surveyor will carry out a house survey to inspect a property's condition and structure.

However, the title 'surveyor' is not legally protected - anyone can call themselves a surveyor, regardless of their training or professional background. This makes it important to check credentials and experience.

A chartered surveyor is a surveyor who has been formally accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the leading professional body in the UK and globally.

To earn the chartered title, a surveyor must:

• Complete accredited qualifications and structured training
• Pass the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC)
• Adhere to strict codes of conduct and ethics
• Maintain ongoing professional development (CPD)

Chartered Surveyor is a legally protected title, and members can use the designation MRICS (Member) or FRICS (Fellow) after their name.

If you're making a major financial decision like buying a home, a chartered surveyor offers more reliability, accountability, and peace of mind. RICS also offer a dispute resolution service if there is an issue during the surveying process.

All surveyors on reallymoving are RICS-accredited, credit-checked, and well-versed with the West Midlands property market. 

What are the different types of house survey I can get in the West Midlands?

Whether you're buying a period property in Birmingham, a new build in Solihull, or a former council house in Wolverhampton, a survey helps assess the condition, safety, and value of the property. It is important you choose the right survey for the property you are looking to purchase.

There are three main types of house survey available:

RICS Level 1 - Condition Report

This basic survey can be used for new build properties in excellent condition such as new builds in the Coventry or Redditch areas.

It includes a summary of the property's overall condition and highlights any major defects or urgent risks. It does not include advice on repairs and maintenance or a market valuation.

Average cost in West Midlands is around £300-£700.

RICS Level 2 - Homebuyers Survey

This survey is more in-depth and includes an internal and external visual inspection, condition ratings, advice on repairs and maintenance, and an option to include a market valuation.

This survey is suitable for standard properties in a reasonable condition such as 1930s-1990s homes in areas like Stourbridge, Sutton, or Nuneaton.

The typical cost of a Level 2 Survey is £498.95.

RICS Level 3 - Building Survey

The Building Survey is an extensive assessment of a property's condition including a full structural analysis, detailed defect descriptions, advice on repairs, materials, and timeline, and technical insights.

This survey is vital for older, larger, or unusual properties such as Victorian terraces in Birmingham, converted barns in rural Shropshire, or properties with major renovations or extensions.

The average cost of a Level 3 - Building Survey is £661.29.

How long a house survey takes will depend on the level of survey you get. The time frame may vary, but you typically receive the report within a few days to a week after the inspection is completed.

How can I find a great Chartered Surveyor in the West Midlands?

You can use reallymoving to easily compare surveyors and get quotes from RICS-accredited professionals across the West Midlands.

Simply provide a few details about your move, and you’ll receive up to five instant quotes from trusted local Chartered Surveyors.

All surveyors on reallymoving are:

• RICS-regulated, ensuring high professional standards
• Credit checked for financial reliability
• Reviewed by real customers to help you make a confident choice

It can be beneficial to read customer testimonials and reviews when choosing the right surveyor for you. This can help you:

• Find the best value for your budget
• Avoid hidden fees
• Identify surveyors who are transparent with pricing
• Find a surveyor who responds promptly and professionally

Whether you're buying a Victorian terrace in Selly Oak, a modern flat in Solihull, or a countryside home in Shropshire, reallymoving helps you connect with qualified surveyors who understand the local market.