Are you buying or letting a home? Building a new home or renovating a fixer-upper? A building surveyor near you can help ensure your building meets all building regulations, is compliant and of sound construction.
Read our guide below to learn more about building surveyors and how to find one.
Ready to find a building surveyor near you?
We have two quick methods to find a building surveyor near you on Checkatrade. It couldn’t be easier.
- Request a quote. We search so you don’t have to. Tell us what you need, and we’ll contact building surveyors near you on your behalf. They’ll then get in touch with you directly
- Search your postcode. Enter your postcode into the box below to browse a list of quality building surveyors near you
Let’s answer your questions about building surveyors near you
What does a building surveyor do?
A building surveyor assesses the condition of buildings for purchases, renovations, or mortgages.
During an inspection, a building surveyor checks your property meets all legal and safety requirements. Surveyors will commonly look for things such as:
- Subsidence
- Damp issues
- Structural problems
- Maintenance and repairs
You can also ask your building surveyor for advice on structural repairs or maintenance work.
But building surveyors aren’t just for residential properties. They can also help with commercial and industrial properties.
Is it worth getting a surveyor for a new build?
New-build properties tend to have fewer issues and defects than older properties. But that doesn’t mean they’re fuss-free. New builds can be notorious for snagging problems.
Consider getting a snagging survey to ensure you’re happy with your new build purchase.
Is it necessary to have a survey when buying a house?
Skimping on a house survey might save you a few hundred pounds. But it’s not a good idea in the long run.
You need the transparency of a house survey to identify any potential risks with your new property. That way, you can understand what you’re getting yourself into and make an informed decision about whether to go ahead with the purchase.
Should I get a building survey before or after the offer?
Book a building surveyor after your offer is accepted but before you exchange contracts.
A survey can help you determine if repairs are needed before exchanging contracts. Then, you can decide if you want to renegotiate the price.
What is the average cost of a building survey?
Building survey costs depend on the type of survey you opt for and the company you choose.
Moreover, the property’s size, location and price will often also alter your overall cost.
For example, our 2025 research indicates that a level one condition report will cost around £300. You can pay £450 for a level two condition and home buyer report. Lastly, for a level three building survey, you’ll pay an average of £550.
What is the difference between a building surveyor and a chartered surveyor?
A chartered surveyor is a surveyor that’s registered with RICS (the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors). This demonstrates that they’ve completed relevant qualifications, have been externally assessed and have at least two years of experience in the field.
On the other hand, anybody can legally call themselves a building surveyor, even if they don’t have any qualifications or experience. This means that looking for a chartered surveyor is a good way of ensuring a level of quality. Just bear in mind that some surveyors are members of other professional bodies instead of RICS – like TSA-UK.
What surveys does a building surveyor offer?
Depending on the type of property, construction, or reasons you need a survey, consider obtaining;
- Homebuyers survey. If you’re buying a property, a homebuyers survey will give you a detailed report on its condition. You might negotiate the purchase price if any major defects or repairs are needed
- Condition report. A condition report is the most basic type of house survey you can choose if you’re buying a property. It will flag any obvious defects and potential legal issues but won’t include an in-depth inspection or detailed report on the findings
- Building control survey. You’ll need a building control survey for extensions and new builds. Use a building control survey to ensure your construction work meets all necessary building regulations
- Party wall survey. You might need a party wall survey if you and your neighbour disagree about your construction plans. A party wall surveyor assesses your work and any impact and objections from adjoining properties
Read our helpful article, ‘House Surveys Explained’, for more information.
Why hire a local building surveyor?
You can’t afford not to get a building surveyor! Hiring a building surveyor is essential for these reasons:
- Savings. A building surveyor can save you thousands in unexpected renovation costs. You’ve seen those episodes of Homes Under the Hammer. Don’t be the buyer at auction who hasn’t undertaken a survey
- Expert advice. Use a building surveyor when you need advice on the overall condition of a property
- Detailed report. With a survey, you’ll get a complete and detailed report. A full breakdown can help you make an informed decision when buying
- Smoother process. A building surveyor near you will have local knowledge that can make planning permission requests easier
- Buy with confidence. When you know exactly what you’re getting into, you can buy or let with an easy mind
What should I ask building surveyors near me?
Here are some useful questions to ask before the survey.
- What surveys do you provide?
- Which areas of the property will you be looking at?
- What issues will you be looking for?
- Can you explain any technical terms?
- Will I get a written report?
- When will the report be ready?
- Can you provide advice on repairs or maintenance work?
- Can you provide references?
- How much will the building survey cost?
Hit your building surveyor with these practical questions after the survey.
- Is my property worth the purchase price?
- Are there severe defects or major repairs needed?
- Are there any issues that require specialist work?
- Do you have any advice on repair or maintenance?
How do I find the best building surveyor near me?
Are you searching for a building surveyor near you? Search out a reputable surveyor with these top tips.
- Check reviews. Always look for reviews online to see what others think of the building surveyors near you
- Ask for recommendations. Friends, family and neighbours are a good source of recommendations. Cross-check your recommendations with Checkatrade’s homeowner reviews
- Get multiple quotes. Get at least three written quotes to compare
- Use Checkatrade! Find the perfect professional for you by searching the Checkatrade directory. We approve all Checkatrade members and ensure that they are regularly reviewed. All members must pass up to 12 checks and adhere to the Checkatrade standard
When you book a trade through Checkatrade, their work could be guaranteed for up to 12 months (Exclusions and T&Cs apply).
Ready to find quality surveyors near you? Pop your postcode into the box below to get started.