Best Chartered Surveyors in Swindon

What does a building surveyor in Swindon do when inspecting a property?

Whether you're purchasing a Victorian terrace in Old Town, a 1930s semi in Rodbourne, or a new-build in Wichelstowe or Tadpole Garden Village, arranging a house survey is a crucial step in the Swindon property buying process.

A Chartered Surveyor in Swindon will carry out a detailed building survey to assess the condition of the property, highlight potential issues, and help you make a fully informed decision before you commit to the purchase.

During the inspection, a Swindon-based surveyor will examine:

• Internal features such as walls and floors
• Signs of damp, condensation, or mould, particularly in older or poorly ventilated properties
• The condition of insulation, which is especially important for energy efficiency in older homes
• The structural integrity of the building and its foundations, any signs of movement or subsidence, particularly relevant in some Swindon suburbs with clay-rich soil
• Timber condition, signs of rot, woodworm, or structural decay
• Functionality and safety of electric, gas, and drainage systems
• Environmental risks, such as flood risk in low-lying areas near the River Ray or River Cole
• Identification of invasive or dangerous plants
• Outdoor structures e.g. garages, garden rooms

Your surveyor will provide a detailed written report summarising their findings. Depending on the level of survey you choose, your report will include any urgent defects, ongoing maintenance concerns, and recommended repairs.

You may also receive background information about the property and the area, which can be especially helpful when buying in Swindon’s expanding developments or near protected green space. A current valuation may also be included as an optional extra.

Swindon offers a wide range of housing types - each with their own quirks. While newer estates may look pristine, hidden issues like poor drainage or inadequate insulation are not uncommon. Similarly, older properties in areas like Gorse Hill or Stratton St Margaret may conceal signs of damp, outdated electrics, or timber decay.

A building survey gives you a realistic view of the property’s condition and could help you negotiate a lower purchase price or request repairs before exchange if issues are uncovered.

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

If you’re purchasing a property in Swindon, understanding the difference between a general surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor is crucial.

Surveyors in Swindon may have varying levels of qualification and experience. They might offer general property inspections without formal accreditation. A Chartered Surveyor, however, is a fully qualified professional who has completed rigorous training and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Chartered Surveyors are recognised for their expertise, strict adherence to professional standards, and detailed understanding of construction and valuation.

They have completed additional qualifications to reach chartered status and must maintain high levels of professionalism. Importantly, if any issues arise, RICS provides a formal complaints and dispute resolution service, offering peace of mind throughout your home-buying journey.

At reallymoving, all building surveyors working in and around Swindon are RICS-accredited and credit-checked. Whether you’re purchasing a family home in Stratton St Margaret, a townhouse in Redhouse, or a cottage in Wroughton, you can trust that you’ll be matched with a reliable, knowledgeable professional who understands the local Swindon market.

What different types of house survey are available in Swindon?

If you're buying a property in Swindon, it’s important to choose the right type of survey based on the age, condition, and complexity of the home. From Victorian terraces in Old Town, mid-century homes in Gorse Hill, to new builds in Wichelstowe and Tadpole Garden Village, Swindon offers a wide variety of property types each with their own individual survey needs.

There are three main types of RICS surveys available for homes in Swindon:

Level 1 Survey - Condition Report: The most basic survey. A simplistic overview of the condition of a property. Can identify and highlight urgent issues, but does not include repair or maintenance advice. Suitable for new-builds still in excellent condition. The average cost of a Level 1 Survey is £300-£700.

Level 2 Survey - Homebuyers Survey:  This is a more detailed survey that includes a thorough inspection of visible defects, advice on necessary repairs and maintenance, and often a valuation. It’s ideal for homes in reasonable condition without significant alterations. The average cost of a Homebuyers Survey in Swindon is £470.

Level 3 Survey - Building Survey:  This is the most comprehensive survey available. It offers an in-depth analysis of the property’s structure, fabric, and any serious defects. It’s highly recommended for older, unusual, or heavily altered properties such as period homes. The average cost of a Level 3 Building Survey in Swindon is £720.

The time that a house survey takes will depend on the type and complexity of the property: 

Typically, a Level 1 survey should take as little as 1-2 hours, but a Level 3 survey could take up to a full day, particularly larger or older homes. 

Generally, you can expect to receive your written report within 2 to 7 working days after the inspection.

How can I find a trusted building surveyor in Swindon?

If you're buying a property in Swindon, choosing a reliable and experienced Chartered Surveyor is an important part of the process.

You can use reallymoving to easily compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors in Swindon. Simply provide a few details about your move, and you'll receive up to five instant quotes from local professionals who understand Swindon’s diverse housing market and can offer expert advice tailored to your needs.

All surveyors on reallymoving are credit-checked, regulated by RICS, and are experienced with all the different local property types.

To ensure you get the best service, it’s important to read client reviews and testimonials. A trustworthy surveyor will be transparent with their fees, maintain clear and responsive communication, and provide a detailed, easy-to-understand report. This is all essential for navigating Swindon’s competitive property market.

A good surveyor will also work efficiently to ensure that you receive your report promptly, helping your home purchase progress smoothly, whether you're buying in Rodbourne, Westlea, or Tadpole Garden Village.