Best Chartered Surveyors in Portsmouth

What does a surveyor look at during a house survey in Portsmouth?

When purchasing a property in Portsmouth, a professional house survey carried out by a Chartered Surveyor is highly recommended.

Portsmouth has a varied mix of housing stock, from Victorian terraces in Southsea to modern developments and ex-military housing, so a detailed inspection can help uncover potential issues specific to the area.

Depending on the type of survey you choose when you get a house survey in Portsmouth, a surveyor will typically assess:

Internal Condition

• Structural movement, cracks, or instability
• Dampness, mould, or condensation (common in older homes and coastal properties)
• Timber defects (e.g. rot, beetle infestation)
• Insulation and ventilation
• Plumbing, electrical systems, and heating (visual only, not tested)

External Features

• The condition of the roof, chimney, gutters, and drainage
• Walls, windows, and external joinery
• Any visible issues with foundations or subsidence
• Brickwork pointing and rendering (especially in sea-exposed homes)

Outdoor Areas

• Garages, garden walls, fences, driveways, and permanent outbuildings
• Access points, boundaries, and legal restrictions
• Signs of invasive plants like Japanese Knotweed (occasionally found in parts of Hampshire)

Environmental and Location-Specific Risks

• Flood risk or proximity to tidal areas (especially in Hilsea, Milton, Eastney)
• Soil conditions and ground movement
• Exposure to sea air which can accelerate corrosion or material wear
• Noise or pollution issues, particularly near naval bases or busy transport routes

After the inspection, the surveyor will provide a detailed report outlining the condition of the property and any urgent or significant repairs. For Level 2 and Level 3 Surveys this will also include maintenance advice and can provide an optional market valuation.

Portsmouth's mix of historic buildings, coastal exposure, and regeneration zones means that hidden defects aren’t uncommon. A survey helps you:

• Avoid unexpected repair costs
• Make an informed buying decision
• Renegotiate the purchase price if serious issues are uncovered
• Ensure your mortgage lender is satisfied with the property’s condition

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

Surveyors in Portsmouth can vary widely in their qualifications and on-the-job experience. Technically, anyone can call themself a surveyor. Whereas, a Chartered Surveyor has completed rigorous training, passed the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Assessment of Professional Competence, and must follow the RICS Code of Conduct.

This chartered status ensures you get a professional who:

• Understands Portsmouth’s unique property risks, coastal exposure, salt-laden winds and flood-zone mapping in areas such as Milton and Old Portsmouth
• Understands the Historic naval and Victorian housing that calls for specialist knowledge of solid brick walls, lime mortar and heritage regulations
• Carries mandatory professional-indemnity insurance, giving you financial protection if something important is missed.
• Is backed by RICS’ complaints and redress system, so you have a clear path to resolution if issues arise.

Every building surveyor quote you receive through reallymoving comes from a RICS-regulated firm, meaning you can compare prices with confidence while knowing your surveyor meets the highest professional standards.

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

RICS-regulated surveyors in Portsmouth offer the same three core survey levels found across England. Local conditions such as coastal exposure, mixed-age housing and flood-risk zones can affect which level is most suitable.

RICS Level 1 - Condition Report

• A brief “health check” for brand-new or nearly new homes such as the latest waterfront apartments at Tipner or Port Solent.
• Flags any urgent or significant defects but gives no repair advice or valuation.
• Typical Portsmouth cost: roughly £300 – £700.
• The survey itself is quick (often under an hour) and the report usually lands in your inbox within two to four working days.

RICS Level 2 - Homebuyers Survey

• The most popular choice for 1930s–1990s semis and terraces in areas like Milton, Fratton, North End and Cosham.
• Covers visible structure, damp, timber decay, insulation and services, with guidance on necessary repairs and maintenance.
• You can add a market valuation and insurance rebuild figure if required.
• The local price hovers around £498.95.
• The survey takes around 2-5 hours. Expect the written report three to five working days after the site visit.

RICS Level 3 - Building Survey

• A thorough inspection for older or more complex properties: Victorian terraces in Southsea and Old Portsmouth, converted naval buildings, large detached homes, or houses in tidal-flood zones such as Milton and Eastney.
• Includes detailed explanations of defects, advice on remedial works and budget estimates it is essential if you plan major renovations.
• Costs in Portsmouth typically fall around £661.29, rising for very large or listed homes.
• Reports tend to arrive within five to seven working days.

If you’re unsure which level fits your purchase, most surveyors will give free pre-quote guidance based on the property’s age, size and location.

Choosing the right RICS survey, and ensuring it’s carried out by a Chartered Surveyor, will give you the clearest picture of your future Portsmouth home and the confidence to negotiate or plan repairs before you commit to purchase.

How can I find a trusted surveyor in Portsmouth?

You can use reallymoving to compare surveyors and get quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors working in Portsmouth. Just tell us a few details about your purchase or sale and you’ll receive up to five quotes from Chartered Surveyors.

All of the surveyors on our platform are credit-checked and regulated by RICS, so you can book with confidence knowing they meet the highest professional standards.

To make sure you choose the best match for your needs:

• Read testimonials and reviews, look for consistent five-star feedback from homeowners in the Portsmouth area.
• Pay attention to comments on clarity of advice, responsiveness and local market knowledge.
• Check that fees are transparent, trustworthy surveyors give a clear breakdown of costs up front and explain any extras (e.g. damp meter testing, drone roof inspections).
• Assess communication style, a good surveyor should keep you updated at every stage, booking, inspection, report delivery, so the transaction stays on schedule.

Because Portsmouth’s housing stock ranges from historic Georgian terraces in Old Portsmouth to modern waterfront apartments in Gunwharf Quays, choosing a surveyor who understands local building types and coastal exposure issues can save you time and money later.