Services

Clear Reporting

The survey reports include a simple green, amber, red ‘traffic light’ rating system to quickly indicate the condition of different parts of the building, services, garage and outbuildings and highlight problems that require varying degrees of attention.

We believe that a comprehensive understanding of the building is key, and our team are always delighted to discuss the survey further should you wish.

RICS HOME SURVEY LEVEL 1

This is an entry level report suitable for buying or selling a conventional house, flat or bungalow built from common building materials and in reasonable condition and, generally, for properties under 5 years old. It focuses purely on the condition of the property by setting out the following:

• Clear ‘traffic light’ ratings of the condition of different parts of the building, services, garage and outbuildings, highlighting problems that may require varying degrees of attention.
• A summary of the risks to the condition of the building.

An RICS Level 1 Survey is straightforward and does not include a valuation, advice on repairs or ongoing maintenance issues.

RICS HOME SURVEY LEVEL 2 – WITHOUT VALUATION

This level of report is suitable for buying or selling a conventional house, flat or bungalow built from common building materials and in reasonable condition. It focuses purely on the condition of the property by setting out the following:

• A summary of the risks to the condition of the building and other matters for your legal advisors such as guarantees, as well as Planning and Building Control issues.
• Advice on defects that may affect the value of the property, with repairs and ongoing maintenance advice.

 

RICS HOME SURVEY LEVEL 2 – WITH VALUATION

This level of report is suitable for buying or selling a conventional house, flat or bungalow built from common building materials and in reasonable condition. It focuses purely on the condition of the property by setting out the following:

• A summary of the risks to the condition of the building and other matters for your legal advisors, such as guarantees, as well as Planning and Building Control issues.
• The surveyor’s professional opinion on the ‘Market Value’ of the property and an insurance reinstatement figure for the property.
• Advice on defects that may affect the value of the property, with repairs and ongoing maintenance advice.

 

RICS HOME SURVEY LEVEL 3

Formerly called a Full Structural Survey, this type of survey is suitable if the property is larger, older and possibly Listed, is in obviously poor condition, is unusual (non-standard construction) or has been altered, or if you are planning major works. This survey provides a greater level of descriptive detail and comments specifically on the structure and fabric of the property. It includes:

• A thorough inspection and detailed report on a wider range of issues, including photographs.
• A description of visible defects and potential problems caused by hidden flaws.
• Advice for your legal advisers and details of serious risks and dangerous conditions.
• The Level 3 Survey does not include a Market Valuation, but your Surveyor will be able to provide this as an additional service if required.
• The RICS Level 3 Survey report will provide you with a clear indication of defects and matters requiring further investigation and will advise on short, medium and long-term maintenance issues.

 

HELP TO BUY – VALUATION

A Help to Buy Valuation is required for properties that are purchased under the government Help to Buy Scheme.

The valuation report is a complex document that we can prepare on your behalf. In order for the valuation report to be compliant, it must adhere to the following criteria set by Target HCA:

• The Valuer must be registered with the recognised RICS qualification.
• The Valuer must be independent to an Estate Agent.
• The report must be on headed paper, signed by the RICS surveyor and addressed to Target HCA.
• The Valuer MUST provide at least 3 comparable properties and sale prices.
• The comparable provided must be like for like in terms of property type, size and age and within a 2 mile radius to the property that is being inspected.
• The Valuer must not be related or known to the client.

 

SHARED OWENERSHIP – VALUATION

You can buy a home through the shared ownership scheme if you cannot afford all of the deposit and mortgage payments for a home that meets your needs.

You buy a share of the property and pay rent to a landlord on the rest.

When you buy a home through shared ownership, you:

• Buy a share between 10% and 75% of the home’s full market value
• Pay rent to the landlord for the share they own
• Usually pay monthly ground rent and service charges, for example towards the maintenance of communal areas

 

REDBOOK – VALUATION

A home valuation is an inspection, which is designed to determine the value of a property. During an RICS property valuation, a surveyor will complete a tour of the house or flat, making observations and taking notes. A surveyor will consider a number of factors, including:

• The general condition of the property
• House prices in the area and recent sale prices
• The size of the property
• Property features
• Location and access to amenities

Expert surveyors use their knowledge and experience to provide a valuation based on the factors listed above and comparisons between the property and others in the area. A surveyor will provide you with a figure and explain how they came to it. An RICS valuation is based on research, observations and evidence.

This is an independent valuation of your property, suitable for probate purposes.