Best Chartered Surveyors in Hampshire

What does a Hampshire surveyor look for when inspecting a property?

Whether you’re buying a charming thatched cottage in the New Forest, a Victorian terrace in Winchester, or a modern home in Basingstoke, arranging a professional survey is a key part of making a safe and informed property purchase in Hampshire.

A building surveyor will carry out a thorough inspection of the property and assess its condition, structure, and potential risks.

The depth your surveyor will go into will depend on which level of survey you go for.

A chartered surveyor in Hampshire typically inspects the following:

• All major interior features - including walls, ceilings, floors, staircases, internal doors, and built-in fittings.
• Signs of dampness or mould - A common issue in older stone or brick-built homes across rural and coastal parts of Hampshire.
• Insulation and energy efficiency - Roof, wall, and floor insulation, as well as ventilation. This is important for both listed properties and newer builds aiming to meet energy standards.
• Structural integrity and foundations – this is especially relevant for properties built on clay or near water, such as those around Eastleigh, Alton, and Lymington, where ground movement can lead to subsidence.
• Timber condition – Checking for woodworm, rot, or structural decay, particularly in timber-framed homes or barn conversions.
• Electric, gas, and drainage systems – Visual inspections to highlight outdated or potentially unsafe installations; specialist testing may be advised.
• Environmental factors – Flood risk (especially in low-lying or riverside areas), proximity to motorways or railways, and local pollution.
• Dangerous or invasive plants – Such as Japanese Knotweed, which is known to affect parts of Hampshire and can be a mortgage risk.
• Permanent outbuildings and external features – Garages, extensions, conservatories, boundary walls, and garden structures are checked for condition and compliance.

After the inspection, depending on the type of survey, the surveyor will provide a detailed written report outlining:

• The property’s overall condition
• Any visible defects and potential risks
• Repair and maintenance recommendations
• Construction details and environmental insights
• An optional property valuation, available at an extra cost

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

If you’re buying a home in Hampshire, whether it's a thatched cottage in the New Forest, a seaside property in Lymington, or a new build in Basingstoke, understanding the distinction between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor is essential when it comes to protecting your investment.

The term surveyor is quite broad. In Hampshire, surveyors may vary in terms of their:

• Qualifications
• Experience
• Professional regulation (or lack thereof)

While some surveyors may be skilled and locally knowledgeable, not all are formally qualified or governed by a regulatory body.

This means their reports might not be recognised by mortgage lenders, and if something goes wrong, you may have limited protection.

Surveyors may offer basic inspections or informal advice, which might be suitable for very straightforward purchases, but they don’t carry the same level of trust, accountability, or legal standing as Chartered Surveyors.

A Chartered Surveyor is a property professional who has:

• Completed rigorous training and qualifications
• Achieved membership with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Agreed to adhere to strict codes of conduct and ethics
• Is required to hold professional indemnity insurance
• Must complete regular continuing professional development (CPD)

In Hampshire, where property types range from centuries-old listed homes in Winchester or Alresford to modern coastal apartments in Portsmouth or Southampton, Chartered Surveyors bring the expertise needed to:

• Understand heritage property construction and regulations
• Spot hidden issues like damp, timber decay, or subsidence on clay soils or flood-prone areas
• Provide reports recognised by mortgage lenders and solicitors

They also offer peace of mind, if something goes wrong, you can raise a complaint with RICS, who provide formal dispute resolution services.

All surveyors on reallymoving are RICS-accredited and credit-checked.

What are the different types of RICS surveys available in Hampshire?

An important part of the home-buying process is understanding which survey to get. It is important you know which type of survey the property you are hoping to buy needs. 

RICS Level 1 – Condition Report

• Basic overview of the property’s condition
• Best for new-builds or homes in excellent condition
• Highlights major issues only (no repair advice)
• No valuation included as standard
• The average price of a Level 1 Survey is £300-£700.

RICS Level 2 – Homebuyers Survey

• More detailed than Level 1
• Best for conventional properties in reasonable condition
• Includes advice on repairs and maintenance
• Optional property valuation and insurance rebuild cost
• The average cost is £498.95

RICS Level 3 – Building Survey

• Most comprehensive survey
• Best for older, larger, or altered properties e.g. period builds
• In-depth inspection with repair advice and potential costs
• Ideal for homes that are run-down, extended, or listed
• The average cost is £661.29

The length of time a survey will take depends on the size and complexity of the property and the type of survey you have. A Level 1 Survey may take as little as 1-2 hours, whereas a Level 3 Survey could take a whole day to properly complete. You will usually receive the results within a week, depending on your surveyor's availability. 

How can I find a trusted surveyor in Hampshire?

Whether you’re buying a seaside property in Portsmouth, a cottage in the New Forest, or a family home in Winchester, finding a reliable surveyor is essential to making a confident and informed purchase.

With reallymoving, you can easily compare quotes from RICS-accredited Chartered Surveyors across Hampshire, all experienced in dealing with the region’s diverse property types.

Simply enter a few details about your move, and you'll receive up to five instant quotes from Chartered Surveyors operating throughout Hampshire.

From thatched homes in Lymington to new buildings in Basingstoke, you’ll be matched with professionals who understand the unique challenges and risks that come with Hampshire's varied housing stock.

Before choosing your surveyor:

• Read testimonials and customer reviews to find a highly rated, reputable expert
• Make sure they’re open with their fees and explain what’s included in your survey
• Look for strong communication — a good surveyor will keep you informed and deliver your report on tim