Found Your Dream Home? Move Smarter and get it checked first!

Unlock peace of mind before you move! Whether you’ve found your dream property or an investment opportunity, it’s crucial to Move Smarter by ensuring a thorough check-up to help you make informed decisions and step confidently into your new space!

RICS survey

Homebuyer reports, structural surveys and other reports provided by our chartered surveyors.

Specialist reports

We cover a wide range of surveys for anything you ever need when surveying a property

EPC report

Book an EPC report for the sale of your property so you can be ready to move smarter.

our smarter property services

We give you access to every survey you will ever need. If you can’t find the service you are looking for, please get in touch with us via the contact page.

RICS Home Surveys

The RICS residential property surveys are various types of property inspections offered by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to help homebuyers assess the condition of a property before purchasing. The main types of surveys include:

  • RICS Condition Report (with or without valuation Level 1): This is the most basic and affordable survey. It provides a general overview of the property’s condition, highlighting any significant issues or risks, such as structural problems or issues with the roof or plumbing. It’s suitable for newer properties in good condition but may not provide in-depth detail on more complex issues.
  • RICS HomeBuyer Report (Level 2): A more detailed inspection that includes an assessment of the property’s condition and advice on any defects or necessary repairs. It also covers aspects such as the property’s location and its marketability. This report is ideal for properties that are in relatively good condition but may require more in-depth information than the Condition Report offers.
  • RICS Building Survey (Level 3): The most comprehensive survey, suitable for older properties, larger homes, or buildings that are in poor condition. It provides a thorough examination of the property, including detailed insights into the structure, materials, and potential issues such as damp or subsidence. The survey includes advice on repairs and maintenance, making it the best option for those considering significant renovations or buying a property with complex issues.

 

Each survey type offers varying levels of detail, with the HomeBuyer Report and Building Survey being more suited for older or higher-risk properties, while the Condition Report is ideal for more straightforward, newer homes.

When purchasing a residential property in the UK, there are several specialist property reports that can provide in-depth insights into specific issues that may not be covered in standard surveys. These reports help buyers assess potential risks or costs related to the property. Common specialist reports include:

  • Timber and Damp Report: This report identifies issues related to timber infestations (such as woodworm or beetles) and damp problems (rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation). It assesses the condition of wooden structures and floors, and highlights the source and extent of dampness, providing recommendations for treatment or repairs. It’s particularly useful for older properties or those with visible signs of damp.
  • Electrical Report: An electrical inspection or Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) assesses the condition of the electrical system in the property, including wiring, sockets, and circuits. It checks for safety issues, such as outdated or faulty wiring that could pose a fire hazard or fail to meet current standards. This report is important for older properties, where electrical systems may not meet modern safety regulations.
  • Drainage Report: This report examines the drainage system of the property, including the condition of pipes, drains, and septic tanks. It identifies potential blockages, leaks, or issues with the flow of water, which could lead to expensive repairs or flooding. A drainage survey often involves using cameras to inspect pipes, especially if the property has an older system.
  • Flood Risk Report: A flood risk assessment identifies whether the property is located in an area at risk of flooding from rivers, groundwater, or surface water. It evaluates the likelihood of flooding and any measures that have been taken to mitigate the risk, such as flood defenses. This report is crucial for properties in flood-prone areas, as it can influence insurance costs and long-term property value.

 

Structural Engineer’s Full Survey, Timber And Damp, CCTV Drain, Electrical, Gas And Central Heating, Tree/Arboriculturalist, Japanese Knotweed, Wall Tie, Roof Inspection, Asbestos, Mundic Test reports. We literally cover every report or survey you need.

These specialist reports help potential buyers uncover hidden issues or risks that may not be immediately apparent in a general survey. Depending on the property’s age, location, and condition, obtaining these reports can be a valuable step in making an informed decision.

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) report assesses the energy efficiency of a property in the UK. It provides a rating from A (very efficient) to G (inefficient) based on factors such as insulation, heating, and the property’s overall energy consumption.

The EPC also includes recommendations for improving energy efficiency, such as upgrading insulation, installing energy-efficient appliances, or improving heating systems.

EPCs are required for property sales in the UK whenever a property is sold or rented out. The seller must provide a valid EPC to potential buyers, usually before marketing the property. The certificate is valid for 10 years, so if a property has a recent EPC, it may not need to be renewed unless significant changes to the property’s energy efficiency have been made.

In some cases, an EPC is also required for lettings, and landlords must ensure their properties meet a minimum energy efficiency rating of E or higher, as part of legal requirements introduced under the Energy Efficiency (Private Rented Sector) Regulations. This ensures that properties are energy-efficient, helping reduce running costs for the occupant and supporting the government’s environmental goals.

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