Chartered Surveyors London

What type of survey do I need for a listed building?

For period properties, homes located in Conservation Areas and designated Grade I, Grade II* or Grade II listed buildings, we would advise that a RICS Building Survey (Level 3) is the right choice. This is the only home survey with enough scope to go into the necessary detail needed to cover the unique architectural features and specific requirements of a historic character home.

Can I use the survey results to renegotiate the asking price?

One of the best reasons to get a property survey is that the report will tell you about urgent serious building defects and urgent remedial works that need doing, while relevant cost estimates may also be provided. Many buyers use this important information given by an independent professional surveyor to help them negotiate some money off the purchase price to allow for the cost of any urgent repairs.

What is the difference between a HomeBuyer Survey (Level 2) and a Building Survey (Level 3)?

A HomeBuyer Report (Level 2) is a mid-range property investigation and report that delivers a reasonable overview of the building’s condition. It is most appropriate for modern homes in a good state of repair. A Building Survey (Level 3) is an in-depth property survey that covers all major defects including some hidden ones. The latter is the best choice for older buildings, larger buildings, or properties with historical alterations.

Which is the right survey for my property purchase?

With such a lot of choice on offer, it can be difficult for a layperson know which is the best survey for the property in question. This is where Cosey Homes can add value. Our experienced surveyors can talk you through the pros and cons of each survey type, outlining the options available and guiding you towards making the best decision for the needs of the property you are thinking of buying.

What is meant by ‘gazumping’?

In England and Wales, a property transaction only becomes legally binding at the point of exchange of contracts. Until then, both buyer and seller can pull out of the agreement without penalty. Gazumping is an unfortunate, though perfectly legal, behaviour whereby the seller accepts a higher offer from another buyer before your contracts are exchanged. The consequence of this is that you are pushed out of the transaction and lose the property along with any monies already spent on it.

How do I get my survey report?

Once our surveyor has completed his site inspection and finished compiling your survey report, it will be checked by us for quality control. The final report will then be sent out by email as a PDF document. If an additional hard copy is required, this can be arranged for an extra fee. At Cosey Homes, we endeavour to work as swiftly as we can to provide the best possible customer service. You can expect to receive your copy of the survey report about 5 days after the inspection visit.

What areas in London do you survey?

We cover a wide range of locations across London, ensuring that we can meet your surveying needs no matter where you are based. Our services span:

• North London – including Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Finchley, Finsbury Park, Haringey, Highbury, Highgate, Holloway, Islington, Muswell Hill, Southgate, Tottenham & Wood Green.
• West London – including Acton, Brentford, Chiswick, Ealing, Fulham, Hammersmith, Hanwell, Harrow, Hayes, Hounslow, Northolt, Notting Hill, Shepherd’s Bush, Wembley & West Kensington.
• East London – including Barking, Bethnal Green, Bow, Canary Wharf, Dagenham, Hackney, Ilford, Leyton, Newham, Poplar, Shoreditch, Stratford, Walthamstow, West Ham & Whitechapel.
• South London – including Balham, Bermondsey, Brixton, Camberwell, Clapham, Crystal Palace, Dulwich, Greenwich, Lewisham, Peckham, Southwark, Streatham, Tooting, Wandsworth & Wimbledon.
• Kingston upon Thames and surrounding areas