Our Services
Why choose Sterling Residential Chartered Surveyors? Because forewarned is forearmed. Choosing the right survey will help highlight any serious problems and advise you of the specific risks before you commit to the process of buying or selling a property. We offer 3 different RICS surveys. These can only be conducted by a RICS qualified surveyor. Reliable and cost effective, these reports carry the full weight of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors – the industry’s most respected authority on surveying.
RICS Level 2 Survey
RICS Level 2 Home Survey is a detailed report on the condition of a conventional property based on a physical inspection of the inside and outside of the building. It suits modern properties made from conventional building materials and construction methods. If the building is older, more unusual or in poorer condition, you will need a level 3 survey instead.
The focus is on assessing the general condition of the main elements of a property. This intermediate level of service includes an extensive visual inspection of the building, its services and grounds, but without tests.
Concealed areas normally opened or used by the occupiers are inspected if it is safe to do so (typical examples include roof spaces, basements and cellars). The report objectively describes the condition of the different elements and provides an assessment of the relative importance of the defects/problems.
A level 2 survey is a non-intrusive inspection, so the surveyor will not lift fixed floors or drill into walls, but they will advise on any visual defects as well as visual signs of potential defects which may need further investigation
What Does A Level 2 Home Survey Cover?
Describes the construction and condition of the property on the date of the inspection
Problems that need urgent attention or are serious or may be dangerous
Things that need to be investigated further to prevent serious damage
Potential issues and defects
Whether you need extra advice before committing to purchase
Amount of ongoing maintenance required in the future & budget for any repairs or restoration
Secured panels, electrical fittings, inspection chamber covers and other similar features are not removed.
Reporting Process: Our RICS Level 2 Survey reports are presented in a clear and accessible format, offering detailed explanations and expert opinions.
RICS Level 3 Survey
A RICS Level 3 Home Survey, is a more detailed and comprehensive report based on a physical inspection of the inside and outside of the building. A level 3 survey is suitable for properties over 50 years old, listed buildings, those which are unusually constructed, in poor condition, or which you intend to renovate in a way which will alter the fabric of the building.
Concealed areas normally opened or used by the occupiers are inspected if it is safe to do so (typical examples include roof spaces, basements and cellars).
Although the services are not tested, they are observed in normal operation – in other words, they are switched on or off and/or operated where the occupier has given permission and it is safe to do so.
What Does A Level 3 Home Survey Cover?
A detailed visual inspection of the building, its services and the grounds and is more extensive than a survey level two
Construction and condition of the property on the date of the inspection
How the property is built, what materials are used and how these will perform in the future
Problems that need urgent attention or are serious or may be dangerous
Visible defects, plus potential problems posed by hidden defects
Propose the most probable cause(s) of the defects based on the inspection
Things that need to be investigated further to prevent serious damage
Make general recommendations in respect of the priority and likely timescale for necessary work
outline the likely scope of any appropriate remedial work and explain the likely consequences of non-repair
Whether you need extra advice before committing to purchase
Reporting Process: Our RICS Level 3 Survey reports are presented in a clear and accessible format and includes detailed explanations, expert recommendations, and prioritised advice.
RICS Valuation Survey
This is a written market valuation of your property. This is best for anyone engaged in buying, selling, or re-mortgaging. It’s also used in “Help To Buy”, shared ownership transactions and for inheritance tax purposes. It gives you independent advice on whether you’re paying a fair amount for the property.
Our valuation surveyors will assess the way the property was built, its size and location and its overall condition. Using our experience and technical training, we will evaluate the property and how it compares to similar properties that have recently sold nearby.
However, it does not give you any information on the structural integrity of the property.
Snagging Survey
A snagging survey is a pivotal tool to ensure that a newly constructed or recently completed property meets the highest standards of quality. Our surveyors work to identify any 'snags' or defects in a property that require attention. These surveys are typically carried out before the property is handed over to the buyer or tenant, ensuring that any issues are rectified promptly.
Our surveyors assess the construction quality, workmanship and materials used. This includes an examination of structural elements, finishes, and overall build integrity.
The survey includes a detailed check of fixtures and fittings, ensuring they meet the specified standards. This encompasses everything from door hardware to kitchen appliances.
Our surveyors will identify and document any snags, defects, or imperfections present in the property. This may include issues such as paintwork blemishes, uneven surfaces, or malfunctioning systems.
We ensure that the property adheres to relevant building regulations and safety standards. Our surveyors verify that construction meets the necessary codes, providing peace of mind to homeowners and developers.
Benefits of Snagging Surveys:
Early identification of snags allows for prompt resolution before the property is handed over, preventing potential inconvenience for the occupants.
Addressing issues early on can prevent the escalation of problems, leading to potential cost savings in future repairs or renovations.
A snagging survey ensures that the property is delivered with the highest quality standards.
Book a Survey Today
If you are unsure about which survey you need, please get in touch on 00000 000 000. A member of our surveying team will be on hand to answer any questions.