What does a RICS surveyor do when they visit my property?

When buying or selling a property, a visit from a RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) surveyor is a crucial step in ensuring the transaction goes smoothly. RICS surveyors are highly trained professionals who provide valuable insights into the condition of a property. But what exactly does a RICS surveyor do when they visit your property?

Key tasks performed by a RICS surveyor

Comprehensive property inspection

A RICS surveyor conducts a thorough inspection of the property, both inside and out. This includes:

• Structural assessment: Checking the integrity of the building structure, including walls, roof, and floors, as well as looking for signs of any issues with foundations.
• Interior inspection: Evaluating the condition of interior elements like ceilings, walls, floors, doors, and windows.
• External elements: Inspecting the condition of external features such as the roof, gutters, chimneys, and external walls.

An inspection for a Homebuyer’s report will generally take between one and two hours. With a full building survey taking between two and three, although these times can vary depending on the size and complexity of the property.

For sellers a survey can be daunting, but do rest assured that RICS surveyors work to the highest professional standards and their inspection will be factual and unbiased.

Identifying potential issues

During the inspection, the surveyor identifies any potential issues that could affect the property’s value or pose risks to the occupants. Common issues include:

• Damp and moisture: Checking for signs of dampness and potential causes.
• Structural problems: Looking for evidence of subsidence or movement in the property’s structure.
• Infestation: Identifying signs of pests such as rodents or woodworm.

It should be noted that a surveyor will not undertake any intrusive inspections, such as cutting holes or lifting floorboards and nor will they enter any unsafe or inaccessible areas.

Providing a detailed report

After the inspection, the RICS surveyor compiles a comprehensive report that includes:

• Property summary: An overview of the property’s construction type and age, with general comment on the condition and any significant findings.
• Report body: A detailed analysis of all elements of the property, including description of any problems found.
• Recommended repairs: Suggestions for necessary repairs or maintenance.
• Energy performance: The current energy performance of the property and any suggestions for improvement.
• Key risks: An overview of the key risks to the property and its occupants.
• Conclusion: A summary of the significant findings and advice. This sometimes includes budget repair costs.
• Valuation (if instructed): An estimated market value of the property.

Typical turnarounds for receiving a report can vary from approximately 3-10 days after the inspection, depending on the size and complexity of the property, the time of year (turnaround is typically quicker in winter during quiet periods) and the individual surveying firm.

Importance of choosing a RICS surveyor

Choosing a RICS surveyor ensures you receive a professional and unbiased assessment of the property.

• Expertise: RICS surveyors have extensive training and adhere to strict professional standards.
• Neutrality: Their assessments are based on their extensive experience and the latest building standards; they have no agenda or bias.
• Credibility: Reports from RICS surveyors are widely recognized and trusted by lenders, buyers, and sellers.

Conclusion

Understanding what a RICS surveyor does during their visit helps you appreciate the value they bring to your property transaction. A survey from a RICS surveyor will ensure a detailed inspection and an accurate report, allowing you to make a fully informed decision. When you choose the right professionals, including RICS surveyors, you can navigate the UK property market with confidence.