Buying property tips: Arranging a survey
You will need a surveyor who will act on your behalf once you have
found the property. Make sure you get an accurate quote for the type
of survey you want to have carried out. Most lenders will require
at least a basic Mortgage Valuation on the home that you are buying.
Before you pay out for a survey, it is worth taking the time to think
about what it is you want the survey to tell you. Your requirements
will be different if you are simply moving house than if you are looking
to renovate or restore a property. Does the property you are interested
in need a full building survey or are you better off with a Homebuyer's
Survey and Valuation?
If you have a specific requirement from your surveyor, it is worthwhile
trying to find a surveyor who has some degree of experience or specialty
in that field. If you have any plans for renovating the property,
your surveyor is the best source of information you have to consult
about the considerations that your plans may raise. Your surveyor
can provide you with information and advice about:
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Planning permission - What are the restrictions? Are there
any fees? |
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Demolition and erection of structural walls and other major
changes. |
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Listed Building regulations - guidelines and limitations. |
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Conservation area regulations and levels of restriction. |
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Safety issues. |
If you have chosen to undertake a survey of a property independently
of that required by your mortgage provider it is worth spending the
time making sure your surveyor will provide what you need from a survey.
Surveys are expensive and can be very important when deciding whether
to go ahead with a sale so don't be afraid to ask questions. Many
surveyors have areas of specialty which may cater for more directly
for your needs. For example, they may specialise in listed buildings
or auction properties.
Chartered Surveyors (Members and Affiliates of RICS) can be identified
by the letters MRICS (Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered
Surveyors) and FRICS (Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered
Surveyors). They are the only people allowed to call themselves Chartered
Surveyors or Chartered Building Surveyors.
Useful links
Selling your home
First time buyers
In-depth mortgage guide
Property news
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