Best Chartered Surveyors in Sheffield

What do building surveyors in Sheffield look for during a survey on a property?

When you book a building survey in Sheffield, a Chartered Surveyor will carry out a detailed inspection of the property to assess its overall condition. This is something especially important in a city with a mix of Victorian terraces, post-war semis, and modern developments.

A Sheffield-based building surveyor will typically assess:

• All major indoor features (walls, ceilings, floors, windows, etc.)
• Any signs of damp or mould, which can be common in older properties across areas like Ecclesall or Walkley
• Levels of insulation and ventilation, particularly important in energy-conscious renovations
• The structural integrity of the property and its foundations, including checks for movement or subsidence
• Timber damage, such as rot or woodworm, especially in older housing
• Safety and function of electrical systems, gas supply, and drainage
• Environmental risks, such as flooding in low-lying parts of Sheffield or former mining zones
• Dangerous or invasive plants, including Japanese knotweed
• Any permanent outbuildings or outdoor features, such as garages, conservatories, or garden structures

After the inspection, the surveyor will put together their findings into a comprehensive written report  including, depending on the level of survey you choose, both urgent issues and long-term maintenance concerns.

Surveyors may also provide contextual background on the property and its Sheffield location. A current market valuation can be included if requested, though this may be offered as an additional service depending on the surveyor.

With Sheffield’s broad range of property types and building ages, a house survey is highly recommended. It ensures you’re aware of any potential problems and helps you avoid costly surprises after purchase.

If the survey uncovers issues that were not previously disclosed, you may be able to negotiate a lower sale price or request that the seller make repairs before finalising the transaction.

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

When buying a home in Sheffield, it's essential to choose a surveyor who understands the diverse local property market, from the stone-built terraces in Crookes, 1930s semis in Hillsborough, to the more modern apartments in Kelham Island.

Surveyors in Sheffield may have varying levels of experience and qualifications, so it's important to look for a Chartered Surveyor, a professional who has completed rigorous training and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This accreditation ensures they meet strict standards for property inspections and professional conduct so you can be sure that they will be sufficiently experienced  

Chartered Surveyors are highly regarded for their expertise and professionalism. Achieving chartered status requires additional qualifications and training, giving you peace of mind that you're working with a trusted expert. And if any concerns arise, RICS provides a formal complaints and resolution process, offering further reassurance and security. 

At reallymoving, all of our building surveyors in Sheffield and the surrounding areas are RICS-regulated and credit-checked, so you can be confident you’re getting a high-quality, reliable service from professionals who are familiar with the types of properties and common issues found in the Sheffield area.

What are the different types of house surveys offered in Sheffield?

Choosing the right type of RICS survey can help you better understand the condition of the property you're buying and avoid costly surprises after you move in. It is especially important to get a survey in Sheffield’s diverse property market, ranging from Victorian terraces in Walkley, to new-build apartments in Kelham Island.

Here’s a breakdown of the three main RICS survey levels, and how they apply to homes across Sheffield:

RICS Level 1 - Condition Report: A basic and brief overview of a property's condition. Can highlight any urgent defects, but doesn't include detailed repair advice or maintenance suggestions. This Level survey can be useful for a new-build property in excellent condition. The average cost of a Level 1 Survey is £300-£700. 

RICS Level 2 - Homebuyers Survey: This is a more detailed house survey that inspects visible issues, offers ongoign maintenance advice, and can include a property valuation. This level is suited for homes that are in generally good condition that are relatively new such as standard homes built from 1980-2000. The average cost of a Homebuyers Survey in Sheffield is £498.95.

RICS Level 3 Building Survey: The most detailed insprection including a comprehensive report that examines the full structure of the property in detail, includes advice on repairs, potential risks, and long-term maintenance. You should get this survey if you are looking to buy an older home or a unique property. The average cost in Sheffield is £661.29.

The duration of the survey depends on the level of detail and the complexity of the property. A Level 1 survey may take as little as 1-2 hours, while a Level 3 survey can take several hours up to a full day to complete.

In most cases, your full report will be ready within 2 to 7 working days after the inspection. Many Sheffield-based surveyors also offer a verbal summary shortly after the site visit, which can be helpful in fast-paced sales environments.

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in Sheffield?

Finding a reliable, qualified surveyor is an essential step when buying a home in Sheffield, especially given the city’s diverse property types. 

You can use reallymoving to compare surveyors and receive quotes from RICS-accredited Chartered Surveyors in Sheffield and the surrounding areas. Simply enter a few details about your move, and you’ll receive instant quotes from trusted local professionals.

All surveyors on reallymoving are:

• Credit checked
• Regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Experienced with local housing market, including older properties with potential issues like damp, timber decay, or structural movement.

To find the best fit for your surveying needs, it's important to read customer reviews and testimonials. A trustworthy surveyor will be transparent about their fees, responsive in their communication, and well-rated by other Sheffield buyers.

In a city with a fast-moving housing market, a good surveyor will also be efficient and timely, ensuring you receive your report quickly so you can proceed  with your home purchase with confidence, whether you're buying in Nether Edge, Hillsborough, Crookesmoor, or beyond.