Best Chartered Surveyors in Durham

What do surveyors in Durham check during a house survey?

If you're buying a home in Durham, whether it's a Victorian terrace in Gilesgate, a semi in Belmont, or a rural cottage outside the city, a house survey is a key part of the process. A Chartered Surveyor will carry out a detailed inspection to assess the condition of the property and identify any potential issues. This can ensure that you know exactly what you are getting with the house you are purchasing.

During a typical Durham house survey, the surveyor will look at:

• Major internal features, including floors, ceilings, walls, doors, and windows
• Evidence of damp, condensation, mould, or water ingress, common in older or stone-built homes in the area
• Insulation and ventilation, particularly important in cold, draught-prone properties
• Structural integrity, including signs of subsidence or movement
• Timber condition (e.g. rot, infestation, or general decay)
• Visible inspection of electric, gas, and drainage systems
• Environmental risks such as flood zones or mining subsidence (still relevant in some parts of County Durham)
• Presence of invasive, dangerous, or destructive plants like Japanese Knotweed or climbing ivy
• Permanent external structures such as garages, extensions, or boundary walls

You’ll receive a written report with the findings. A Level 2 and Level 3 survey will also include recommendations for any repairs and maintenance. Some surveyors can also offer a property valuation, often at an additional cost.

With a mix of historical properties, ex-council homes, and new builds around Durham, getting a survey can give you peace of mind and help avoid expensive repair surprises. If any issues are found during the survey, this can also be used as a negotiation point or to ask the seller to fix the issue before purchase. 

What are the different types of surveys I can choose from?

Not all surveyors are equally qualified and have not been through the same training. A Chartered Surveyor is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)- which means they’ve completed advanced training and meet strict professional standards.

This is especially important in a place like Durham, where housing varies from medieval buildings in the city centre to 20th-century homes in Newton Hall and council-built properties across Framwellgate Moor. A Chartered Surveyor will know how to assess traditional and modern building types properly.

You’re also protected: if something goes wrong, RICS has a complaints process. All surveyors listed on reallymoving are RICS-regulated and have been independently vetted, so you can book with confidence.

What types of house surveys are available in Durham?

The right survey for your property in Durham depends on the home’s age, condition, and structure. It is important that you choose the correct option for the type of property you are looking to purchase. There are three main RICS surveys to choose from:

RICS Level 1: Condition Report
A simple overview of a property’s condition. Ideal for new homes or well-maintained flats, ideal for new developments around Merryoaks or Shincliffe.
Typical cost: £300-£700

RICS Level 2: Homebuyers Survey
A more detailed inspection, including advice on repairs and maintenance. Suitable for standard properties in reasonable condition, common in areas like Carrville or Langley Moor.
Average UK cost: £498.95

RICS Level 3: Building Survey
The most comprehensive report, important for older, altered, or unconventional properties, such as stone-built cottages, listed homes, or anything needing renovation in Durham’s villages.
Average UK cost: £661.29

Survey time depends on the level, the size of the property, and its complexity: a Level 1 might take 1-2 hours, while a Level 3 could take a full day. Reports are generally available within 3 to 7 days.

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in Durham?

You can use reallymoving to compare quotes from local RICS-accredited surveyors in Durham. Simply enter a few details about the property, and you’ll receive up to five quotes instantly.

All surveyors listed on reallymoving are:

• Regulated by RICS
• Credit-checked for peace of mind
• Reviewed by real customers

From student rentals and investment flats near Durham University to family homes in Brandon or Langley Park, a local surveyor will understand the area’s common issues, such as damp in older homes, roof wear in ex-council properties, or insulation gaps in post-war housing.

To choose the right surveyor, look for:

• Clear and transparent pricing
• Strong customer testimonials
• Efficient and responsive communication

A good surveyor will explain their findings clearly and help you make informed decisions throughout the homebuying process.