Finding a surveyor who genuinely cares about your interests can be a daunting task, especially with so many companies to choose from, it’s worth choosing one that stands out from the crowd. Purchasing a property is one of the biggest investments you will make and whilst fees are important, it is essential to consider other factors when comparing quotes.
Here are some tips to guide you:
- Check Reviews: Look for feedback from previous clients
- Ask for Recommendations: Personal referrals can be invaluable
- Verify Credentials: Ensure that the surveyor is accredited by the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and is VRS registered (Valuer Registered Surveyor), if you require a valuation.
It’s not uncommon for companies to send out less experienced surveyors or to conduct multiple surveys in one day, to maintain lower fees. This can lead to rushed inspections, overlooked issues, failure to properly document findings and in turn, provide subpar customer service. At Chant Surveys, we prioritise quality over quantity by conducting only one survey per day. This approach allows us to focus entirely on each property, applying our expertise effectively and resulting in thorough survey reports.
Client Testimonial Eric Braeger shares his experience:
“We booked a full survey with Darren at Chant Surveys and have been very happy with the service we have received. Communication was exceptional and we were blown away with the detailed report. After we had received the report, Darren followed up with a phone call regarding some of the findings to make sure we were fully aware of the situation and to offer his professional advice. Overall, we are extremely happy with the service we have received and would highly recommend Darren/Chant Surveys to anyone”
Our Commitment to You
At Chant Surveys we take pride in being open, transparent, and dedicated to customer satisfaction. Our system allows you to monitor the progress of your survey, so you know when to expect your report. When your report is ready, we will take the time to explain our findings and answer any questions or concerns you may have. Our reports are designed to be clear and include extensive photographs to help you understand the defects discussed.
Purpose of the Report
Our reports assess the overall condition of a property, both inside and out. Each element is condition-rated, including any necessary repairs. We will walk you through the inspection findings, ensuring you fully understand the property’s condition and any potential repairs needed. Additionally, we offer practical advice on addressing these issues, whether through negotiations with the seller or planning for future maintenance.
Comprehensive Inspection
At Chant Surveys, we meticulously examine all aspects of a property, ensuring that no detail goes unnoticed. Our thorough assessments focus on identifying visible issues that may affect the structural integrity of a property, as well as any urgent defects, or major repairs that may be needed. Our comprehensive inspections cover cellars, lofts, windows, doors, walls, roofs, chimneys, grounds, relevant outbuildings, and more, providing you with a complete overview of the property’s condition.
Roof & Chimney Inspections
We visually inspect the exterior elements of the property, sometimes using ladders, binoculars, and drones to thoroughly assess the condition of roofs and chimneys. If we are unable to access certain areas, we will note these limitations within the report.
Checking for Damp
We look for signs of dampness and rot, using a moisture meter for assistance. This is crucial for identifying potential issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. Our inspections are typically non-invasive, respecting the homeowner’s property while ensuring a thorough assessment.
Our level 3 survey is a more detailed inspection that aims to examine areas that are not usually visible, such as beneath floor coverings, wherever possible. This thorough approach can uncover hidden problems that, if left unaddressed, could lead to more significant issues in the future.
Services Inspection
We conduct visual inspections of the services such as plumbing and electrical systems to identify any obvious defects, signs of aging or hazardous materials. Whilst we do not perform tests on these systems, we will recommend that you seek specialist investigations before legally committing to a purchase to ensure they are safe to use.
We will check drainage systems by lifting lightweight chamber covers within the property boundary, but we do not inspect drainage systems in common areas for flats.
Hazardous Materials & Vermin
We will look for potentially harmful materials, such as asbestos and lead, which are known to pose significant health risks. While these materials are more commonly found in older properties, they can still be found in buildings built as recently as the early 2000s.
Asbestos was widely used in many properties from the 1930s until mid-1980s. Although it was banned in most properties after 1999, it may still be present in buildings built after 2000. Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues, including but limited to, respiratory diseases and various forms of cancer.
Lead-based paint was commonly used in homes from the early 1900s until it was banned in the UK in 1992. Exposure to lead can cause a range of health problems, particularly in young children and pregnant women.
While we do not conduct tests for ourselves on these materials, we will recommend that a specialist carries out the necessary testing.
In addition to checking for harmful materials, our inspections also include a thorough examination for evidence of potential pest infestations. We look for signs such as rodent droppings, wasp nests, woodworm, and the presence of bird and bats, among other pests. Early detection of these issues can help you avoid costly repairs and health risks.
Subsidence or Structural Movement
We will examine the walls for signs of movement and note any nearby risk factors that could lead to subsidence or structural movement. If we determine that further investigation is necessary, we will recommend a qualified contractor, such as a structural engineer, arboriculturist, or a CCTV inspection of any drains, depending on the severity of the situation. Most cracks are typically caused by thermal movement and/or settlement, and they are usually not a cause for concern.
Get in Touch!
This overview provides just a glimpse into the comprehensive nature of our inspections. We recognise that no house is perfect and that most surveys will inevitably highlight areas requiring repairs or attention. While this can sometimes lead to apprehensive from buyers, discussing these findings with the surveyor can provide peace of mind.
When it comes to a reliable home survey, we always recommend choosing a member of The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to ensure you receive the best service possible.
At the end of the day, our goal is to equip you with the knowledge you need to move forward confidently in your home-buying journey.
We look forward to assisting you! Call us on 01245 601999 for a free, no-obligation quotation.
Click on the following link to learn more about the types of surveys we offer at Chant Surveys https://chantsurveys.co.uk/level-2-3-survey/
