Best Chartered Surveyors in Leicester

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

If you're buying a home in Leicester, arranging a building survey is a vital step in understanding the condition of the property. Especially in a city known for its mix of Edwardian terraces, 1930s semis, and newer suburban developments, it is important to understand what you are dealing with. 

A Chartered Surveyor in Leicester will carry out a comprehensive inspection of the property, assessing its structural soundness and identifying any visible or hidden issues. This is especially valuable in areas like Clarendon Park, Stoneygate, or Knighton, where many homes date back decades and may conceal issues not immediately visible.

During the survey, your surveyor will inspect:

• All major internal features (walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows)
• Signs of damp or mould, particularly in older brick-built homes
• The level and effectiveness of insulation, especially important for energy efficiency
• The structural integrity of the building and its foundations, including checks for settlement or subsidence
• Timber condition, including risks of rot, infestation, or damp-related decay
• Functionality and safety of electric, gas, and drainage systems
• Environmental risks, such as flood zones or subsidence risks in certain parts of Leicester
• Presence of invasive plants, including Japanese knotweed
• External structures like garages, garden rooms, extensions, and permanent outbuildings

After the inspection, the surveyor will produce a detailed report, outlining all findings, including urgent issues, recommended repairs, and long-term maintenance advice.

Your surveyor may also provide helpful background information on the property and its location, such as nearby developments, local planning issues, or historical insights. If requested, they can also offer a current market valuation, though this may be an additional service.

Leicester’s housing stock is varied, ranging from Victorian homes in Highfields to modern estates in Hamilton or Thorpe Astley. This means a survey is a smart investment for any buyer. It offers peace of mind and can help you avoid unexpected repair costs after purchase.

If the survey uncovers issues that weren’t disclosed during the sale process, you may be able to renegotiate the price or request that the seller completes certain repairs before contracts are exchanged, ultimately helping you make a more informed and financially sound decision.

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

When purchasing a home in Leicester, it’s essential to work with a qualified surveyor who understands the city’s diverse property landscape, from the Victorian terraces in Highfields and Clarendon Park, to 1930s semis in Knighton, and new-build homes in Hamilton or Thorpe Astley.

Surveyors across Leicester may vary in experience and qualifications, but opting for a Chartered Surveyor ensures you’re working with a professional who has completed rigorous training and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Chartered Surveyors are known for their expert knowledge, professionalism, and accountability. To achieve chartered status, they must complete additional qualifications and adhere to strict ethical and technical standards. Should any issues arise, RICS also offers a formal dispute resolution process that can give you added peace of mind throughout your home-buying journey.

At reallymoving, all of our Leicester-based building surveyors are RICS-regulated and credit-checked, so you can be confident that you're receiving a high-quality, reliable service from surveyors who are familiar with Leicester’s unique housing stock and local property concerns.

Whether you're buying a period home in Stoneygate, a family house in Evington, or an investment flat in the city centre, we’ll connect you with trusted professionals who can provide the insight you need to move forward with confidence.

What are the different types of surveys you can get in Leicester?

If you're buying a home in Leicester, selecting the right type of survey is an important step in making a confident and informed purchase. Leicester’s property market is varied, making a tailored survey essential.

Here are the three main types of RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) surveys, and how they apply to Leicester properties:

RICS Level 1: This is the most basic type of survey you can get. It gives a general overview of the property's condition and can highlight any immediate issues. It does not offer repair advice or maintenance suggestions. This is suitable for new builds in excellent condition. The average price of a Level 1 Survey is £300-£700.

RICS Level 2 Homebuyers survey: This survey provides a more detailed assessment, including advice on repairs and future maintenance. It often includes a market valuation and is suitable for homes that appear to be in reasonable condition. The average cost of a Level 2 Homebuyers Survey  in Leicester is £450.

RICS Level 3 Building Survey: The most comprehensive survey available, this is ideal for older or more complex homes. It offers a detailed analysis of the structure and condition, highlights serious defects, and includes repair recommendations. This survey is ideal for older or character properties such as Victorian terraces or Edwardian homes. The average cost of a Level 3 Building Survey in Leicester is £663.

The time it takes to complete a survey will depend on the type of survey and the size and condition of the property. A Level 1 might take 1-2 hours, while a Level 3 could require several hours or a full day. Typically, you’ll receive the final report within 2 to 7 working days after the inspection.

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in Leicester?

If you're buying a home in Leicester or the surrounding areas, reallymoving makes it quick and easy to compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors who are familiar with the local property landscape.

With reallymoving you can receive up to four instant quotes tailored to your move. All surveyors listed on reallymoving are:

• Credit-checked
• Regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Experienced in dealing with Leicester’s wide range of housing stock, from period properties with potential damp or timber issues to newly built homes requiring a condition check.

To make the best choice, it’s important to read client testimonials and reviews. Reliable surveyors in Leicester will be transparent about their pricing, communicative throughout the process, and highly rated by local buyers.

A good surveyor will also be efficient and timely, helping to keep your home-buying journey on track by delivering your report promptly, often within a few working days. This is especially helpful in Leicester’s fast-paced property market, where timing can be key to securing your dream home.