Best Chartered Surveyors in York

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

Whether you're buying a character cottage in Bishopthorpe, a Georgian townhouse within York’s historic city walls, or a modern family home in Huntington, a building survey is a crucial step in understanding the true condition of your future home.

A Chartered Surveyor in York will carry out an inspection to assess the structure and overall condition of the property. This is especially important in a city like York, where many homes are listed, timber-framed, or centuries old, and may have been extended or altered over time.

During the survey, a York-based surveyor will examine:

• All major internal features (walls, ceilings, floors, windows, etc.)
• Any signs of damp or mould, often found in older properties and homes close to the River Ouse or Foss
• The condition and effectiveness of any insulation, especially in period homes and attic conversions
• The structural integrity of the property and its foundations—particularly relevant in homes with historic construction or located in flood-prone zones
• Timber condition, including signs of rot, beetle infestation, or movement
• Safety and operation of electric, gas, and drainage systems
• Potential environmental issues, such as flood risks in areas like Fulford or Clementhorpe
• Presence of dangerous or invasive plants, including Japanese knotweed
• Permanent outbuildings and external structures, such as garages, annexes, and garden rooms

Following the inspection, the surveyor will provide a comprehensive written report detailing all findings. Depending on the level of survey you choose this can include anything from minor maintenance issues to significant structural concerns, along with repair recommendations.

A surveyor that is familiar with York and it's surrounding areas can also provide valuable background information about the property’s construction, history, and local area. They may also offer a current market valuation, which can be included for an additional fee.

Given York’s rich architectural heritage and varied housing, a property survey is strongly recommended. Even picturesque homes in areas like Acomb, Holgate, or Heworth can hide serious problems such as damp, structural movement, or outdated systems.

If your survey uncovers previously undisclosed issues, you may be able to renegotiate the sale price or request that the seller carries out necessary repairs, potentially saving you thousands and giving you more control over your purchase.

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

If you're buying a property in York, understanding the difference between a general surveyor and a Chartered Surveyor can make a big difference in ensuring you get expert advice and peace of mind. This can be especially useful in a city with such diverse and historic housing.

Surveyors in York may vary in experience and qualifications. Some may be well-practiced but not formally accredited, while others may specialise in specific types of inspections. In contrast, a Chartered Surveyor is a qualified professional who has completed extensive training and assessments and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This is the gold standard in the surveying profession.

Chartered Surveyors are recognised for their technical knowledge, professionalism, and accountability. They follow a strict code of conduct and must keep up to date with the latest regulations, which is particularly important in a city like York, where you might be dealing with Grade II listed homes in the city centre, timber-framed cottages, or properties in conservation areas like Micklegate or Bootham.

Another key benefit? If any issues arise during your buying process, RICS offers a formal complaints and dispute resolution process, giving you added protection.

At reallymoving, all of the building surveyors we work with in and around York are RICS-accredited and credit-checked.

Whether you're purchasing a period townhouse in Clifton, a riverside flat in Fulford, or a modern home in Poppleton, you can trust you're getting expert guidance from professionals who understand the unique characteristics of York's property market.

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

If you're purchasing a property in York, arranging the right type of RICS survey is an essential step to ensure you understand the condition of the home before committing to the purchase. With a mix of medieval buildings, Victorian terraces, Georgian townhouses, and modern developments, York’s property market demands surveys that suit a wide range of property types and ages.

There are three main types of RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) surveys available in York:

RICS Level 1 Condition Report: This is the most basic type of survey. It offers a brief overview of the property's general condition. It may highlight urgent or significant issues but will not include advice on repairs or maintenance. This survey is suitable for new builds. The average cost of a Level 1 survey is £300-£700.

RICS Level 2 Homebuyers Survey: This is a mid-level survey that provides more detailed insights to the condition of a property and may include advice on repairs, maintenance, and potential risks. This type of survey is best suited to relatively modern and well-maintained properties. The average cos of a Homebuyer's Survey in York is £490.

RICS Level 3 Building Survey: A Level 3 Survey is the most comprehensive survey. It provides an in-depth full analysis of the building's structure, materials, and identifies any serious defects or risks. It is suited to older, extended, or structurally unique properties such as period homes or properties undergoing renovations. The average cost in York for a Building Survey is £740. 

The duration of a house survey will depend on the level of survey you get, the size of your property, and how complex your property is. A Level 1 Survey may take as little as 1-2 hours, but a Level 3 could require most of the day. 

You can expect to have the final report delivered from 2 to 7 working days following the survey.

How can I find a trusted Chartered Surveyor in York?

If you're buying a property in York, finding a reliable, experienced Chartered Surveyor is key to making a confident and informed purchase, especially in a city known for its heritage homes, listed buildings, and modern developments.

You can use reallymoving to quickly and easily compare quotes from RICS-accredited surveyors in York. Just provide a few details about your move, and you'll receive up to five instant quotes from local professionals who understand York’s diverse housing, from Georgian terraces in the city centre to modern family homes in Clifton Moor or Victorian semis in Fulford.

All surveyors on reallymoving are:

• Credit-checked
• Regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• Trusted by local buyers for their knowledge of York’s unique property market

Before choosing a surveyor, it’s worth reading reviews and testimonials from other York homebuyers. A trustworthy surveyor will be transparent with their fees, clear in their communication, and responsive throughout the process.

In a city like York, where properties range from centuries-old cottages to riverside flats, it's essential to work with a surveyor who will deliver your report promptly and professionally, helping your purchase move along as smoothly as possible.