Residential Surveys Outside RICS

Although RICS is widely recognised, it is not the only option. Some surveyors and inspection firms operate under other professional bodies or offer specialist services outside the RICS Level 1, 2 and 3 structure.

Buyers should check the surveyor's qualifications, experience, insurance and scope of work before instructing anyone.

RPSA Residential Surveys

The Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) is another professional body for residential surveyors.

RPSA surveyors may offer:

• Home condition surveys
• Homebuyer-style surveys
• Building surveys
• Buy-to-let surveys
• New-build snagging surveys

Independent Building Surveys

Some firms offer surveys using terms such as building survey, full building survey, property condition report, structural survey or defect report.

Before instructing, ask for a sample report and confirm the surveyor's qualifications, residential experience, professional indemnity insurance, inspection scope, photos, repair advice and valuation advice if needed.

CABE and Chartered Building Engineer Surveys

Some residential property professionals are members of CABE, the Chartered Association of Building Engineers. Qualified members may use the post-nominals C.Build E.

Structural Engineer Reports

A structural engineer's report is usually commissioned where there is a specific structural concern such as cracking, subsidence, bowing walls, roof spread, sagging floors or movement around extensions.

New-Build Snagging Surveys

A new-build snagging survey is designed for newly built homes. It looks for defects, poor workmanship and incomplete finishes before or shortly after completion.

New-build warranties typically cover structural defects only, so snagging issues should usually be raised early.