Why you should use a RICS surveyor

Buying a home or commercial property is stressful enough, but it becomes even more so when you question if you know what you are really buying. A RICS survey and report can outline a number of factors, faults and defects with the property that you simply can't see yourself — and this can make all of the difference.

What is a RICS surveyor?

A RICS surveyor is a person registered by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and covers various disciplines, including building surveying, valuation surveying, land surveying and quantity surveying. A RICS surveyor will travel to a client's potential property and carry out the arranged survey, providing a detailed report and analysis.

Protection: insured and regulated

RICS is the regulatory body for surveyors in the UK. Surveyors registered with RICS must follow strict codes of conduct and carry out works to the highest standards. Importantly, RICS surveyors are completely insured — the indemnity insurance ensures that all clients are protected in case of professional negligence. As part of this, you are also protected by a complaints handling procedure should you be unhappy with the services provided.

Updated advice and knowledge

RICS surveyors are highly trained professionals who have undergone years of rigorous training and education. Members continue to update their knowledge, skills and expertise throughout their career to ensure their practice remains relevant and of the highest quality.

Money savers

Whilst there is a cost to enlisting a RICS surveyor, this one-off cost could save you thousands of pounds. Without a RICS survey, you may end up purchasing a property that requires a lot of work without knowing. Using a non-regulated surveyor runs the risk of saving a few pounds only to end up with a hefty bill later. Utilising a RICS & RPSA regulated surveyor means you are getting a trustworthy service.