Best Chartered Surveyors in Belfast

What do building surveyors in Belfast look at in a house survey?

If you’re purchasing a property in Belfast, arranging a professional building survey is a crucial step in understanding the true condition of the home. With a mix of Victorian red-brick terraces in East Belfast, Edwardian homes in the south, and new-builds in areas like Titanic Quarter, Belfast offers a wide variety of property types—each with its own potential issues.

During a building survey, a Chartered Surveyor will carry out a thorough inspection of the property, focusing on:

• Interior features
• Signs of damp or mould
• The condition and presence of insulation which can be vital for energy efficiency in Northern Ireland's climate
• Structural integrity of the property
• Timber condition
• Functionality and condition of electric, gas, and drainage systems 
• Environmental issues and risks such as flood risk zones
• Presence of invasive plants
• Permanent external features

You will receive the results back in a detailed report that outlines any findings including immediate concerns and depending on the level of survey any recommended repairs or suggested further investigations. A surveyor may also offer background information on the property and its surrounding area. 

With Belfast’s property market encompassing both modern and character homes, a survey is highly recommended to uncover any hidden issues, especially in older properties, which may still have original features, outdated wiring, or poor insulation.

Having a survey report not only informs your decision but can also strengthen your negotiating position. If defects or concerns are uncovered, you may be able to renegotiate the purchase price or request that the seller completes certain repairs before finalising the sale.

What is the difference between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor?

When buying a property in Belfast, it’s important to choose a surveyor with not just experience, but also the right professional credentials. From period terraces in the Ormeau Road area to modern developments in Titanic Quarter, properties across Belfast come in all shapes, ages, and conditions, so you’ll want someone who understands the local housing landscape.

While surveyors in Belfast may have varying levels of qualification and experience, a Chartered Surveyor is a trusted professional who has completed rigorous training and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). They adhere to guidelines and standards so you can be certain they will provide a high quality service.

Additionally, if any issues do arise during the surveying process, RICS also provide a formal route to resolve complaints fairly and independently.

At reallymoving, all of our building surveyors working in and around Belfast are RICS-regulated and credit-checked. Whether you’re buying a Georgian townhouse in South Belfast, a bungalow in Dundonald, or a converted flat in Cathedral Quarter, you can be sure you're receiving a high-quality, professional service from someone who knows the local market well.

What are the different types of surveys you can get around Belfast?

Belfast's property market is wonderfully varied. From red-brick terraces in East Belfast to the new builds in areas such as Dundonald and Four Winds. It's vital that you choose the correct RICS survey to suit the property you are looking to purchase. 

There are 3 levels of survey that RICS offer:

RICS Level 1: A basic condition report.  The least detailed of the surveys. It provides a simple overview of the condition of the property and will highlight any urgent or significant issues. However, it will not provide you with repair advice or a valuation. This is suited to new builds or recently built homes. The average price of a Level 1 Survey is £300-£700.

RICS Level 2 Homebuyers Survey: A more detailed report that covers visible issues, provides advice on repairs and suggests areas that may need ongoing maintenance in the future. This level is best suited for standard properties from 1980s-2000s that are in a good overall condition. The average cost of a Level 2 Homebuyers Survey in Belfast is £480.

RICS Level 3 Building Survey: The is the most comprehensive report. It covers any issues in depth and provides detailed suggestions for maintenance and repairs. This is perfect for older or unusual properties. This survey will ensure that you are aware of any issue with your potential new home. The average cost of a Level 3 Building Survey is £435 and is vital if you want to ensure you're completely informed about your new home.

How long a house survey takes will depend on the level of survey you get and can vary from 1-2 hours up to most of a day depending on the size and complexity of the property.

You will typically receive the results in a report within a few days to a week after the inspection is completed depending on the demand at the time.

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in Belfast?

You can use reallymoving to compare surveyors and quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors in and around Belfast. We make it simple to be matched with trusted professionals who understand the local property market and the areas unique points. Just provide details about your move and receive instant quotes from experienced surveyors in the local area.

All surveyors on reallymoving are RICS-regulated and credit-checked, so you can feel confident that you're working with qualified professionals who follow strict standards of conduct and reporting. This is especially valuable in a region like Belfast, where properties range from historic builds with hidden issues to new developments with unique construction features.

It is vital that you read testimonials and reviews from previous clients when comparing surveyors. This will be the best way to make sure you find the right surveyor for your personal needs .A good surveyor will also be timely and responsive, providing you with updates and your report within a few days of the inspection this can be critical in Belfast’s competitive housing market where buyers need to move quickly.