House Buying - Full Structural Survey

stocks1j

Hi Guys,

I'm in the process of buying a house, mortgage sorted, offer accepted, Conveyancer instructed etc.
I need to get a full structural survey done for the propery, does anyone know if there's any reliable websites in which Surveyors are reviewed etc.
The property I am purchasing dates back (in part) to around 1850 so I want everything done thoroughly and professionally. I'm thinking its best if I attend the survey as well so I can ask questions and I feel as though I will learn a lot more from being there than from reading a report!

Thanks in advance!!!

kinger101

I'd not trust internet reviews too much. The data is not collected in any meaningful way. For example, a company many attempt to solicit reviews in instances where they perceive they'll get good feedback, and not push for feedback where they see the relationship is sour. In extreme scenarios, organizations have been known to fake reviews.

Asking friends or family who've recently purchased might be a better option, but then you're dealing with a small sample size. Friends have previously recommended to me solicitors whom I regretted using.

Best thing I'd recommend is asking the depth of detail that will be covered, and whether it will include photographs. The first survey I had done was nearly useless. The second exceptionally detailed. It's also worth checking whether it will include a valuation, as not all will.

AdrianC

Mid-19th century property? Find a heritage specialist builder and pay him to go over it. Don't get hung up on the RICS "Full Structural" label. He'll probably also be happier for you to accompany than a surveyor will.

davidmcn

stocks1j wrote: »

I'm thinking its best if I attend the survey as well

Your surveyor probably won't want you looking over the shoulder the whole while, but the last one I used did offer the option of attending towards the end so he could point at relevant things.