R E S I D E N T I A L
S E R V I C E S

At Woods Chartered Surveyors, delivery of great residential surveys and pre-purchase advice to clients is our absolute bread and butter.

All of our Home Surveys are carried out on our own bespoke template to allow for easier to understand defect reporting (divided into severity categories) but also a greater level of detail and better, easier to interpret photograph layout.

We leave no stone unturned on site in our pursuit of finding the risks and defects that may prove costly to you down the road. All of our surveyors carry a drone on every survey for detailed roof and chimney investigations.

All of our Surveyors operate within their local areas, which they know well, and are experienced, RICS-qualified professionals. Critically, our Surveyors are given the right amount of time on site to survey the building properly – carrying out only one survey per day.

Get in contact with the team to learn more or obtain a sample survey.

  • When buying a property, the first step should be to hire a professional surveyor. It’s important to ensure that the property is in good condition and that you won’t face unexpected major repairs or costs. A Home Condition Survey provides the peace of mind you need, along with insights into any significant repairs or improvements you may need to consider.

    A Level 1 Survey, also known as a Home Condition Report, is a basic overview and typically the most affordable option for property buyers. It’s important to note that it differs from a mortgage valuation, which is usually arranged by your lender.

    Learn more about what a Home Condition Report covers by getting in contact with our team.

  • Most suitable for conventional properties that are in reasonable condition and are simple in form and layout, giving detailed information about the property, identifying defects and giving advice on future repairs and maintenance. The survey includes a drone survey of the roof, with pictures of defects and relevant issues included in the report as standard.

    A HomeBuyer Report provides more detailed information than a Home Condition Report, focusing on issues that could impact your proposed property transaction.

    Our Level 2 Homebuyers Survey offers a detailed and comprehensive assessment of your property, adhering to RICS standards to ensure the highest level of survey practice.

  • The most comprehensive survey report suitable for large, older or run-down property, or a building that is unusual or significantly altered. The survey provides extensive in-depth analysis of the property’s condition and includes advice on defects, repairs and maintenance options.

    A Level 3 Survey is ideal for larger, older, or non-standard properties—especially if you’re planning significant renovations.

    When arranging a Building Survey, it’s essential to work with an experienced professional. Woods Chartered Surveyors can provide the expert advice and reassurance you need before making a purchase.

    Our comprehensive reports are written in clear, jargon-free language and include a drone survey and photographs as standard to highlight both major and minor defects, offer recommendations for repairs and further investigations, and outline future maintenance needs.

    This survey is strongly recommended for properties over 100 years old, listed buildings, homes of unusual construction, or those you plan to refurbish.

  • A defect survey addresses a single issue within a property. If you are concerned about a defect within your building, whether it is a significant crack, a patch of damp, or an issue with the roof, a defect survey will help you identify the significance of the problem and resolve the issue.

    The survey report will include analysis of the reported defect including likely causes or contributing factors as well as follow-on recommendations for remedial actions or maintenance.

  • A residential property valuation is required for a number of reasons, including Help to Buy, Shared Ownership, Homebuyers, Matrimonial and Probate as well as valuations for reinstatement costs for rebuild as part of insurance premium calculations.

    All of our residential surveyors are RICS Registered Valuers and carry out all written valuations to RICS ‘Red Book’ standards and are summarised in a straightforward and informative Red Book compliant report.

    Our valuations are designed to give an accurate and current market value of the property, but is not a detailed survey to identify all defects as would a Level 2 or Level 3 survey.

  • If you own a leasehold property, you may be aware that its value declines as the lease term shortens. While this might not affect you while you're living there, it can become a challenge when selling—potential buyers may be put off by a short lease or struggle to secure a mortgage.

    If you meet the eligibility criteria, Woods Chartered Surveyors can assist you in applying for a lease extension under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993.

    Find out more about the advantages of extending your lease, and get in touch with Woods Chartered Surveyors to arrange a valuation in preparation for your application.

  • If you are planning on carrying out any work near your neighbouring property, you will need to adhere to the Party Wall Etc. Act 1996. Whether you are building on or near the line of junction between properties, altering a wall which forms a party structure, or laying foundations close to a neighbouring building, we can issue Party Wall notices on your behalf.

    If your neighbour decides they require a Party Wall Award, or you are issued with a set of notices and require a surveyor, we can represent your building as part of the formation of Party Wall Award.

“Woods Surveyors were extremely helpful with all of our queries about our Help to Buy Valuation. They were on time, friendly and really efficient - report was ready for us to view in only a few days. Couldn’t recommend enough!”

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