What Does a Property Surveyor Do: Roles, Responsibilities and When to Hire One
Before you buy a property, a surveyor inspects the visible and accessible parts of the building to identify any existing defects and likely future problems. Expect checks on internal and external walls, meters and stop taps, accessible drainage, flood risk and obvious health and safety hazards such as unsafe glazing or damaged steps.
The surveyor also flags issues that may need legal or technical follow-up, for example unapproved alterations that could require planning permission or building-regulation approval. You will receive a written report that explains each finding, gives condition ratings and sets out where further investigation or action is advisable.
Property Surveys After Purchasing a Property
You can arrange a follow-up survey at any time after buying to check for damp, structural movement or foundation problems. Regular inspections help spot small issues early, letting you plan repairs before costs rise.
A recent survey can reassure buyers if you decide to sell, and often increases market confidence in your asking price.
Common checks include visual roof and wall inspections, moisture mapping, timber condition reports and foundation stability assessments.
Consider a specialist damp survey if you suspect rising damp, penetrating damp or condensation issues. Keep written reports and photographic evidence to support future maintenance or sale negotiations.
How Damps Can Support Your Residential Survey
Damps inspects structural elements, walls, windows, doors, internal finishes and floors to spot damp, rot or movement affecting your property.
You receive a clear, itemised report highlighting defects, likely causes and priority repairs.
The team uses visual checks and moisture tools where needed, then advises on remediation options and cost implications to help you make informed decisions.
Issues Found In Property Surveys
You may find hidden structural problems, often linked to damp — rising or penetrating — that cause timber decay and weakened masonry.
Look for condensation, mould growth and areas of wood rot.
Addressing these quickly reduces health risks and prevents further fabric damage.
Damp Surveys Carried Out By The Experts
How we inspect your home for moisture and timber issues
You’ll receive a full, no-cost inspection covering accessible areas inside and outside your property. The surveyor will examine walls, floors, rooflines, guttering and external ground levels to locate signs of penetrating, rising or condensation-related damp.
Specialist moisture meters and visual checks identify affected areas and any decay in timber elements such as joists, skirting and window frames. Findings are recorded clearly so you understand the extent, likely causes and immediate risks.
Quick, no-pressure cost estimate for treatment
If we find problems, you’ll get a written, no-obligation price for recommended repairs and remedial work. Quotes break down proposed actions, materials and timescales so you can compare options.
You can request the estimate on site or via our online quote builder; turnaround times are short and you remain under no compulsion to accept.
Why Damp Proofing Surveys Matter
Speak with Specialist Property Surveyors
You should get a professional damp-proofing inspection to protect your home, finances and health. A survey pinpoints the exact cause of moisture — rising damp, penetrating damp, condensation or plumbing leaks — so you avoid treatments that won’t fix the real problem.
A qualified surveyor will inspect internal and external factors: wall construction, existing damp-proof courses, rooflines, gutters, drainage and surrounding ground levels. They use visual checks, moisture meters and targeted testing to build a clear picture of extent and cause.
Benefits of a proper survey:
- Identifies whether the issue is cosmetic or structural.
- Prevents unnecessary work and repeated repairs.
- Provides a written report you can use for quotes, insurance or resale.
What to expect from experts:
- Clear diagnosis and recommended remedial options.
- Cost estimates and timescales for repair work.
- Guidance on ventilation, heating or maintenance to reduce recurrence.
If you hire an experienced team you reduce the risk of misdiagnosis and expensive mistakes. Contacting a reputable surveyor gives you evidence-based advice so you can make informed decisions about repairs, budgeting and long-term property care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What key tasks does a property surveyor carry out?
A surveyor inspects buildings to record condition, structure and notable defects.
They report on issues that could affect safety, maintenance or value and recommend repairs or further specialist investigation.
Surveyors also measure, map and prepare documents such as plans and schedules for legal or planning use.
How does a surveyor work out a property's market value?
You will get a valuation based on current market evidence, comparable sales, rental levels and local demand.
Surveyors examine the building’s condition, size, layout and any limitations (for example lease terms or planning constraints) that influence price.
They combine on-site observations with market data and professional judgement to produce a supported figure.
Which credentials are required to practise as a property surveyor in the UK?
You typically need an accredited degree or postgraduate qualification in surveying or a related built environment subject.
Professional membership (for example RICS) and completion of a monitored professional experience pathway are common requirements.
Continuing professional development and adherence to industry standards further validate competence.
Can a surveyor spot boundary problems and help sort disputes?
Surveyors can identify likely boundary positions using site inspection, plans and title documents.
They can produce measured drawings, advise on legal ownership questions and suggest practical solutions such as negotiation or mediation.
For legally binding resolutions you will usually need a solicitor, the Land Registry, or a specialist boundary survey with formal legal input.
How does a property surveyor differ from a building inspector?
A surveyor provides a broader professional assessment covering condition, valuation and technical advice across property issues.
A building inspector (or an inspectorate service) often focuses narrowly on compliance, specific defects or regulatory checks.
Surveyors typically offer detailed reports and value opinions; inspectors usually concentrate on whether standards or codes are met.
What part does a surveyor play when you're buying a house?
You can commission a surveyor to assess a property before exchange to uncover defects and estimate repair costs.
Their report helps you decide whether to proceed, renegotiate price or require remedial work.
Lenders may also require a surveyor’s valuation to support mortgage lending decisions.
