Selecting the right firm for your home survey is important to ensure you receive a detailed, high-quality report that gives you complete confidence in your property purchase.
With numerous options available, it can be difficult to determine which surveyor will provide the best service. Here are some important factors to consider when choosing a surveyor for your home survey.
Ensure the Firm is RICS Regulated
The first step when choosing a surveying firm is to confirm they are RICS-regulated. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is a globally recognised professional body that sets high standards for those working in the property and construction sectors. Opting for a RICS-regulated firm means that the surveyor has met the stringent requirements set out by RICS and is held accountable to their professional and ethical standards.
Check for Good Reviews
A firm’s reputation is a strong indicator of the quality of service you can expect. Take the time to read reviews on independent platforms such as Google Reviews and Trustpilot. Look for feedback on the firm’s communication, the clarity of their reports, and their responsiveness to client queries. High ratings and positive reviews are signs that the firm has a solid track record and is trusted by previous clients.
Ensure Complete Independence
To guarantee a truly impartial valuation, it is essential to confirm that the firm is entirely independent and does not maintain any financial links or referral agreements with estate agents. Some firms work on referral arrangements where estate agents receive fees or commissions in exchange for recommending their services. While this is a common practice, it can create potential conflicts of interest, especially if the surveyor feels pressure to meet the agent’s expectations rather than providing an objective assessment.
Request a Sample Report
Before engaging a surveyor, request a sample report to see the level of detail they provide. A good sample report should be easy to understand, well-structured, and contain clear observations and recommendations.
If you are opting for a Level 2 Homebuyer Survey, check if the sample includes photographs of key findings. Many firms, especially larger corporate ones, often exclude photographs, which can leave you with a less comprehensive understanding of the property’s condition.
Additionally, scrutinise the report for excessive recommendations for “further investigation.” While some recommendations are inevitable, overuse of this phrase can indicate a lack of depth in the surveyor’s observations, and experience.
Avoid Firms that Prioritise Quantity Over Quality
Some of the larger firms may not provide the same level of service as a specialised independent surveyor. Corporate firms often have high workloads, which can lead to less detailed reports and a focus on completing surveys quickly rather than thoroughly. This approach can result in key issues being overlooked, or an abundance of “further investigations” being recommended, which can be frustrating and costly for the client.
CJ Bloor: The Reliable Choice for Your Home Survey
When choosing a firm, consider how well they meet all the criteria discussed above.
CJ Bloor is a RICS-regulated independent firm specialising in Level 2 Homebuyer Surveys and Level 3 Building Surveys. The firm is entirely independent and does not accept referral fees from estate agents or other third parties.
Additionally, CJ Bloor boasts over 100 reviews on Google and more than 900 reviews on Trustpilot, with 98% of these being rated “Excellent,” reflecting their consistent track record of client satisfaction.
By taking the time to research and selecting the right firm, you’ll be better positioned to make a well-informed decision about your property purchase.
If you are still undecided about which level of survey you require, you may find this article helpful: Understanding Different Types of House Surveys.
