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The surveyor who produces your report will be local to North East London with knowledge of the area. We work with RICS qualified surveyors around the country who offer high quality property surveys at a great price. Surveyor Local gives you piece of mind and offers RICS HomeBuyer Reports, Building Surveys and Property Valuations.
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The reports are a fast turnaround while still being accurate, so you'll have everything you need in no time.
RICS qualified
You can trust our reports as they are all regulated by RICS, assuring standards and professional guidance.
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Each report comes with a handy traffic-light system to illustrate all aspects of the property clearly.
Surveying in North East London Made Easy with Surveyor Local
Are you planning to buy a property in North East London? Then one of the first things you'll need is a property survey. Getting a property survey doesn't have to be complicated. At Surveyor Local we can help you make an informed decision about any property you plan to buy.
We offer Homebuyer Reports (RICS Level 2), Building Surveys (RICS Level 3), and Property Valuations. So get things moving in a matter of moments with an online quote, call us on , or request a callback.
Arranging a building survey in North East London
No matter which part of this historic city you intend to purchase in, you can quickly and easily arrange the building survey you need through Surveyor Local.
From the biggest neighbourhoods such as Tower Hamlets, Newham, Waltham Forest and Redbridge to picturesque and historic spots like Hackney and Islington, Surveyor Local can handle your building survey.
We only work with North East London-based chartered surveyors registered with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to guarantee the highest quality service at affordable prices.
Read on to find the answers to our most frequently asked questions about building surveys in North East London.
I intend to buy a flat in North East London. What sort of survey should I instruct?
Whatever type of property you intend to buy in North East London, the decision on which building survey is best will depend on several factors. For example, a full structural survey known as a Building Survey (RICS Level 3) will provide a more in-depth examination and explanation of the fabric of a building. This might be more appropriate when buying a flat or apartment because the surveyor can be asked to provide an opinion on shared areas of a property, such as the roof area, hallways and stairwells.
We're cash buyers. Do we need to bother with any kind of structural survey or will a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) be enough?
It's always best to be forewarned about any potential issues with a property, and those buying without a mortgage need to protect their investment just as a lender would. A Building Survey (RICS Level 3) is the most comprehensive and technical survey offered by North East London RICS surveyors working with Surveyor Local. An examination of the property's accessible areas - both interior and exterior - will inform an in-depth report on its construction, any visible defects and their causes, and any recommendations on repair and maintenance options. A Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) would also identify any structural issues, such as subsidence, but this will not be as thorough an examination as the Building Survey.
We are interested in buying a listed building in North East London. What should we look out for?
Some buyers have looked at purchasing a home with character. Older construction methods and materials, however, can sometimes be an issue. North East London houses built with traditional methods can be surprisingly expensive to maintain, and you could also be required to find sympathetic construction materials, such as matching stone or wood. You should bear in mind that expert knowledge may be needed. This may mean it is a good idea to discuss current upkeep needs with the seller.
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What kind of roof issues would a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) reveal?
A Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) uses colour-coded condition ratings that give those purchasing a property clear understanding of any issues. Access to loft or attic space can reveal issues with trusses and supports, torn or punctured damp proofing or missing tiles. Where it is not possible to access the roof for a more thorough inspection, the final report will make this clear.
I'm bidding on a North East London property that hasn't been renovated in decades, and I'm concerned there may be asbestos in the interior roof tiles. Will a survey show if asbestos is there?
A building survey will not be able to confirm whether asbestos is present, but the surveyor will note any possibility of the fibre's use and advise where further investigation is required. Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibre that was used in building materials such as flooring and fireplace lining because of its resistance to heat. The product was also used as insulation in ceiling tiles. Asbestos is a hazardous substance, and prolonged exposure to its fibres can lead to lung cancer or asbestosis. Where asbestos is found, it must be removed by professionals who are licensed by the Health & Safety Executive.
The electrics in the North East London terraced house we're bidding on are very old. Does a surveyor look at the safety of the wiring?
Whether carrying out a Homebuyer Report (RICS Level 2) or a Building Survey (RICS Level 3), a chartered surveyor will look at the condition of the electrics, including an overview of the fuse board, its age and condition, any visible wiring, plus electrical fittings such as showers and light fittings. If the electrics are in an unsatisfactory or dangerous state of repair, the surveyor will highlight this in their subsequent report. The surveyor will also examine any documentation from electrical wiring tests carried out by an electrician where this is available.
We are buying in North East London and are looking for property built from brick walls. What suggestions can a North East London surveyor make? Does the age of the property matter?
Brick-constructed buildings feature several advantages. However, they can also be affected by numerous defects. The surveyor should report on these, with repair advice also supplied. A defect often found is extensive damp where water has been drawn in through or between poorly fitted brickwork. Brick-build property features in construction throughout North East London, leading to a selection of different courses and brick making techniques. Consider renegotiating the price of the North East London property, based on the results of your survey. Works to remedy even some superficial brick wall defects can be both expensive and disruptive.
I have been told that clay soil can cause difficulties for houses in North East London. Will the Property Survey consider this?
The content of soil around the foundations of a North East London home will have an impact. Issues range from moisture changes in the soil to movement of clay soil layers resulting from changes in their water content, both of which can put a home's foundations under great strain. Clay soil is naturally lower in volume and will compact over several months in the case of new builds. This settlement is predictable and necessary - the real concern is contraction in clay soil caused by changes in the local water table. Visible results may be anything from separation of the skirting board from the floor to warped window frames in the kitchen. Taking precautions, such as after flooding or heavy rain, checking for standing water around the building, can make long term maintenance easier, and keep repair costs manageable. Additional strengthening or support of the structure's foundations may be required, including underpinning or piling.
Are North East London properties at risk, and does a residential surveyor search for water damage, or whether flooding has affected other properties?
Heavy rain, overflowing waterways, tidal activity and poor drainage could all cause major flooding damage, and owning a property in North East London in or near a high-risk area can mean higher insurance premiums. A surveyor has several options to assess whether a property is vulnerable. In addition, the Homebuyer Report may advise on urgent repairs. The Homebuyer Report will also include details of any evidence of historical flooding and may comment generally about the area's propensity to flood. Oral enquiries can sometimes be made of the seller, but this information may not be accurate.
We are planning to buy a house in North East London and the estate agent has confirmed that it has been built with Clipsham stone. Which factors should we consider?
Britain's range of geology has encouraged the use of many varieties of stone, from Naylor Hill Sandstone to Farmington Stone. The problems which can plague poorly maintained stone vary considerably. Regular stone describes cut stone, generally forming brick-like courses. These may require less maintenance than more irregularly built walls, but this is heavily dependent on the type of stone used. You can ask the surveyor carrying out the survey for specific advice, but common maintenance suggestions include. If you are planning to renovate, consider that the British Geological Survey's GeoReport includes a stone matching service. Locally mined or quarried stone may also be available.
What kind of problems will your North East London Surveyor look out for on a smooth stucco coated Victorian semi-detached home in North East London which we wish to buy?
Stucco is really just a dense render. Commonly it is applied to underlying red brick that dries to a smooth and even finish. The effect is very beautiful and is/was often found on Victorian properties. Sometimes it can contain lime (to make it workable) in it in addition to plant fibres to help stop cracks. It can be prone to defects and North East London Building Surveys commonly reveal potentially expensive to remedy problems which can include trapped water leading to damp problems requiring costly repairs. Other potential problems could include when the stucco is taken down to ground level and bypasses the Damp Proof Course. Re-coating problems with stucco can be dear as the skills are getting harder to find.
Arrange your North East London building survey with Surveyor Local
Get an online quote or call now on to talk to our friendly team today. You can also request a callback at a time that's most convenient to you. We're open late Monday to Friday and from 10am until 4pm every Saturday.