Why should I have a survey?

• House purchase is likely to be one of the most important financial transactions in most peoples lives and it is important to ensure, as far as possible, that purchasers do all they can to protect their interests and their investment.
  
  
• Property types and values vary widely throughout the UK and no one wishes to discover costly problems following a house move.
  
  
• Many property purchasers still tend to rely on information in their lenders mortgage valuation but this is simply a brief valuation report required by the bank or building society following a limited inspection by a valuer.
  
  
• A survey is far more comprehensive and provides a report, to you the purchaser, telling you about problems, which may exist, and providing advice and information to remedy defects.

Various types of defects may be encountered, some of which can be difficult and costly to put right. It is essential that you have an opportunity to deal with any problems and difficulties before the purchase rather than afterwards. Some of the main problems to be found are outlined in our HOUSE DOCTOR SECTION.

House Doctor

Some of the principal defects explained...

• Dampness / Condensation
• Wood boring insects
• Cavity wall tie failure
• Insulation
• Trees & their affect on buildings
• Dry Rot
  

Why do I need a valuation?

Property prices vary widely throughout the UK and there can also be considerable variations in values locally as well as regionally. The location of a property is normally regarded as one of the main factors affecting its value but a variety of other factors also need to be taken into account. Considerations should include proximity to local amenities and facilities such as schools, shops and public transport, availability of local and regional employment, prevailing market conditions and interest rates, availability of mortgages and finance, proposed residential and industrial/commercial developments, and a variety of other local and economic factors.

An experienced valuer will have detailed knowledge of all these various factors and the current state of the market in his/her area so that he/she can advise upon the current value of all types of property and provide a reasoned opinion as to its value as an investment.

The price of any property in an open market constantly varies, like the price of any other article or product, and no one wants to pay more than the normal market price.

Can a survey save me money?
More often than not - yes!

Most surveys normally reveal defects and items of maintenance or provide an indication that concealed and hidden defects may exist. Being aware of potential problems enables a property purchaser to obtain estimates for the cost of remedying defects and therefore be more informed as to the total overall cost. It is often the case that the vendor will be unaware that defects exist and it is fairly routine in property transactions for a vendor and purchaser to re-negotiate the purchase price to reflect problems which may arise. In any event, it is important for any purchaser to be aware of any problems and costs before purchase rather than experiencing an unpleasant surprise at a later date.

If no problems arise from the survey, the client does have the comfort of proceeding in the knowledge that all is well.

Is there any form of guarantee?

Our surveyors are well experienced and take pride in carrying out their work diligently. Cavendish Surveyors operate a quality assurance system (BS EN ISO9001:2000) to ensure the highest standards of service and administration.

Every survey file must incorporate a record of the clients precise instructions, detailed site notes taken during the property inspection, comparable information of nearby similar properties to support the opinion of value, a copy of the final report issued to the client, along with any other relevant information. We are regularly audited to ensure our standards are maintained.

We receive very few complaints about our services but in the event of any dissatisfaction, we operate a strict complaints handling procedure, in accordance with rules laid down by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors to ensure speedy resolution of a clients query or complaint.