Issue with Buildings Survey before it's happened?

Mister_E

I've decided I want to commission a Buildings Survey on the property I'm buying as it's a large amount of money we're paying to just rely on the mortgage lender's valuation alone.

I've done some research, looked at surveyor costs as well as sample reports (from those that would supply them).

Whilst my initial thought was that I'd have someone from RICS complete the survey, I noticed there was also an alternate association called SAVA. Anyone had any experience with a surveyor from SAVA?

Also, the surveyor I finally decided on was an Architect and Buildings Surveyor. When he contacted the Estate Agent, the Estate Agent immediately phoned my wife and said that they had one previous experience with this surveyor and he was a nightmare to deal with, almost costing the sale.

According to the EA, he'd called numerous times to ensure keys were available (frustrating to be a surveyor and not have keys), managed to lock himself out of the house he was surveying (back draft from the back door being open and blowing close the front door) and he said major works were required (fibre board ceilings instead of plaster board, posing a danger to life in the event of fire) when a subsequent survey showed no issue (perhaps one of the EA's surveyors?)

Most EAs are a nightmare and say anything to get the sale through but this particular guy has been good throughout (I've purchased a few times before).

Anyway, my dilema is whether to re-instruct this guy regardless or believe the EA and move on?

cherry76

When I was booking my buildingsurvey, the EA did mention a building surveyor similar lto the one you are talking about, he mentioned about losing the keys as well. His name does not by any chance start with M. The one I was going to commission, EA has not heard of him, in the end I choose a very expensive who know the local area very well. He did a good job, may I ask why not a member of RICS !! I would trust the EA if he is good.

Mister_E

The surveyor's first name does start with M as it goes! Last name starts with B... Resides in North London.

Would be odd if it's the same one but a different EA!

I have no objection to using a RICS surveyor, just been looking at everyone that's out there.

TroysMum

I have just looked at the SAVA website which states a crash course "become a home inspector in 12 months".
Well I'm sorry it takes a whole lot more than that to become a chartered surveyor for sure.
I would keep clear of anything that offers a crash course especially when you are probarbly making the biggest investment of your life.
To become a chartered surveyor you have to have a building related degree, professional experience in the specific area of building you are in and much much more.
You have to be truely dedicated to earn full RICS membership.
I would think twice.

cherry76

Mister_E wrote: »

The surveyor's first name does start with M as it goes! Last name starts with B... Resides in North London.

Would be odd if it's the same one but a different EA!

I have no objection to using a RICS surveyor, just been looking at everyone that's out there.

Yes, it is the same one, interesting to know whether it is the same EA in Greater London.