Best Chartered Surveyors in Hertfordshire

What do surveyors in Hertfordshire look at in a house survey?

If you’re buying a home in Hertfordshire, whether it’s a charming period cottage in St Albans, a 1930s semi in Watford, or a new-build in Hemel Hempstead, arranging a professional house survey is an essential part of the process.

A Chartered Surveyor will carry out a thorough inspection of the property to identify any existing or potential problems.

Depending on the level of survey, your building surveyor will inspect:

• Indoor features such as: ceilings, walls, built in fittings etc. 
• Signs of damp and mould - especially important in homes where ventilation may be outdated
• Insulation quality and efficiency 
• Structural integrity and foundations
• Timber condition 
• Electric, gas, and drainage systems and safety 
• Environmental issues such as flood risk, historical land use etc.
• Invasive or dangerous plants
• Permanent outdoor features

After a survey, your surveyor will provide a detailed written report that, depending on the level of survey, can include:

• Any defects, risks, or safety concerns
• Suggested repairs and maintenance 
• An overview of the property's construction and history
• Background information on the surrounding area
• Optionally, a property valuation 

With Hertfordshire's wide range of property types, from centuries-old listed buildings to contemporary flats in commuter hubs, a survey is your best line of defence against unexpected costs. Issues such as damp, roof damage, structural movement, or non-compliant extensions are often unseen during initial viewings.

If your survey reveals concerns that weren’t previously disclosed, you may be able to:

• Renegotiate the purchase price
• Request that the seller carry out repairs before exchange
• Make a more informed decision about whether the property is right for you

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

If you're buying a property in Hertfordshire, it’s important to understand the difference between a general surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor when arranging a home survey.

Surveyors in Hertfordshire may have a range of backgrounds and experience, but they don’t necessarily hold formal qualifications or belong to a professional regulatory body. They may not meet the standards required by lenders.

A Chartered Surveyor is a professional who has completed rigorous academic and practical training and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Chartered Surveyors:

• Must follow strict professional and ethical standards
• Hold professional indemnity insurance
• Are required to complete ongoing training and continuing professional development (CPD)
• Offer a clear route to resolution through RICS if anything goes wrong

This is especially valuable in Hertfordshire, where buyers often deal with a mix of older character homes, listed buildings, and new developments - all of which come with different risks and surveying needs.

All surveyors listed on reallymoving are RICS-accredited.

What are the different types of property surveys available in Hertfordshire?

Arranging the right type of survey is essential, a survey helps you understand the true condition of the property and avoid any costly surprises after you move in.

There are three main types of RICS surveys, each tailored to different property types and buyer concerns:

• RICS Level 1 Survey - Condition Report: Best for new builds, the Level 1 Survey is a basic overview of a property's condition. Can identify any urgent defects, but does not include repair guidance. The average cost is £300-£700.
• RICS Level 2 Survey - Homebuyers Survey: Ideal for 1930s-2000s properties in a good condition. Offers a more in-depth assessment of the property's condition and can include a valuation upon request. The average cost of a Level 2 Survey in Hertfordshire is £498.95. 
• RICS Level 3 Survey - Building Survey: Crucial for older, unique, and converted properties, the Level 3 Survey provides a comprehensive analysis of the structure and condition of a property. It will offer advice for repairs and ongoing maintenance. The average cost is £661.29. 

The length of time it takes to complete a survey will depend on the size and complexity of the building and which level survey you choose. A Level 1 may take as little as 1-2 hours, whereas a full structural Level 3 survey can take up to a whole day to properly complete. 

Surveyors in Hertfordshire typically aim to deliver reports within a few days to one week. 

How do I find a trusted building surveyor in Hertfordshire?

Whether you're purchasing a period property in St Albans, a 1930s semi in Hitchin, or a modern apartment in Stevenage, finding a reliable Chartered Surveyor is essential to ensure you're making a smart and secure investment.

With reallymoving, you can quickly compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors who know the Hertfordshire property market inside out.

• Provide a few basic details about your property or move
• Instantly receive up to five quotes from Chartered Surveyors operating throughout Hertfordshire
• All surveyors are credit-checked and regulated by RICS, ensuring they deliver a high standard of professionalism and service

This is especially useful in Hertfordshire, where the varied property market requires different types of surveying expertise.

To get the best match for your needs:

• Read reviews and testimonials from real customers to assess service quality
• Look for surveyors who are clear and upfront about their fees
• Choose professionals with a strong reputation for accuracy, thoroughness, and fast turnaround times

A good surveyor in Hertfordshire will also be responsive, answer your questions clearly, and ensure you receive your report on time and without confusion.