Best Chartered Surveyors in Oldham

What do surveyors in Oldham check during a house survey?

When buying a property in Oldham, it’s wise to arrange a professional house survey, especially in areas where older terraced housing and 20th-century homes are common. A Chartered Surveyor will carry out a thorough inspection to assess the condition and flag any potential issues before you buy.

What exactly a surveyor checks will depend on the type of survey you choose. Typically, a surveyor will inspect:

• All major indoor elements (walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows)
• Signs of damp or mould, an issue in many older stone-built terraces
• Insulation and ventilation quality
• The structure of the building and its foundations
• Timber condition, checking for signs of rot or insect infestation
• Electrical, gas, and drainage systems (where visible)
• Environmental concerns like flooding or subsidence (especially in hillier districts)
• Invasive or dangerous plants, including Japanese Knotweed
• Outbuildings like garages, sheds, and extensions

After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any concerns. Level 2 and Level 3 surveys will include recommended next steps. Some surveyors also offer a market valuation for an additional fee.

In a place like Oldham, where house prices are generally more affordable but the housing stock can be older, a survey helps protect your investment and may give you room to renegotiate if issues are discovered.

What’s the difference between a surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor in Oldham?

Not all surveyors offer the same level of service or expertise. You do not have to have any qualifications to call yourself a surveyor. However, a Chartered Surveyor is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), having undergone rigorous training and meeting strict professional standards.

In Oldham, with its mix of older brick terraces, post-war housing, and more recent developments, a Chartered Surveyor will understand the construction styles and typical local issues. This includes everything from solid wall damp in Victorian homes to structural movement in properties built on former industrial land.

Hiring a Chartered Surveyor also means you're protected by RICS standards. If anything goes wrong, you can raise a complaint with the regulatory body. All surveyors on reallymoving are RICS-accredited and independently vetted, so you can book with confidence knowing you will receive a high-quality and reliable service.

What types of house surveys are available in Oldham?

The right survey for your property in Oldham depends on the age and condition of the home. It is important you get the right survey for the home you are looking to purchase to ensure you are fully aware of any issues with the property.

There are three main types of RICS surveys offered:

RICS Level 1: Condition Report
Best for new properties or very well-maintained homes, ideal for new builds in areas like Derker or recent developments near Royton.
Typical cost: £300–£700

RICS Level 2: Homebuyers Survey
A more in-depth look at a property. Suitable for homes in good condition, such as 1950s–1980s semis and townhouses. This includes a review of repairs and maintenance advice.
Average UK cost: £498.95

RICS Level 3: Building Survey
The most comprehensive option, ideal for older homes, properties needing renovation, or anything non-standard, which are common across Oldham's town centre and surrounding villages.
Average UK cost: £661.29

The survey duration depends on the level survey you choose and the size and complexity of a property. A Level 1 survey might take 1-2 hours, while a Level 3 can last most of the day. Reports are usually ready within 3-7 days after the inspection.

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in Oldham?

You can use reallymoving to compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors in Oldham quickly and easily. Just enter your details and receive up to five quotes straight away.

All surveyors listed on reallymoving are:

• Fully regulated by RICS
• Credit checked
• Reviewed by verified customers

With Oldham’s mix of traditional housing, former council homes, and newer estates, local expertise matters. A good surveyor will understand the typical issues in your area, such as roof wear in older terraces or damp in solid wall constructions. They will help you navigate the buying process with confidence.

It is useful to look for surveyors who are transparent with their fees, have strong customer reviews, and communicate clearly from the start. This can help you find a reliable and trusted professional.