Survey

# Property Surveys – AIM Mortgages

## Know What You’re Buying – Get Peace of Mind

Buying a property is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make. A professional property survey reveals the true condition of your potential new home, uncovering hidden problems that could cost thousands to fix. At AIM Mortgages, we arrange comprehensive property surveys with qualified RICS surveyors, giving you the confidence to proceed or the evidence to renegotiate.

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## What is a Property Survey?

A property survey is an independent inspection of a property’s condition conducted by a qualified surveyor. It identifies structural issues, defects, maintenance problems, and potential future concerns – giving you a clear picture of what you’re buying before you commit.

**Important:** A survey is different from a mortgage valuation. A valuation is for your lender to confirm the property is worth the loan amount – it’s not for your benefit and doesn’t examine the property’s condition in detail.

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## Why You Need a Property Survey

### Avoid Costly Surprises

Hidden problems like subsidence, damp, timber rot, or roof issues can cost tens of thousands to repair. A survey reveals these issues before you exchange contracts.

### Negotiate the Price

If significant defects are found, you can renegotiate the purchase price or ask the seller to fix problems before completion.

### Plan for the Future

Even minor issues identified in a survey help you budget for future maintenance and repairs.

### Make Informed Decisions

Understanding a property’s condition allows you to make confident decisions about your purchase.

### Insurance Purposes

Some insurance providers require a survey, especially for older or non-standard properties.

### Legal Protection

If problems arise after purchase, you’ll have evidence of the property’s known condition at the time of sale.

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## Types of Surveys We Arrange

### Level 1: RICS Condition Report (Basic Survey)

**Best for:** Newer properties (built after 1990) in good condition

**What it covers:**

– Visual inspection of accessible areas

– Traffic light rating system (red, amber, green)

– Major problems identified

– Basic condition report

**What it doesn’t cover:**

– Inside floors, walls, or roofs

– Areas not easily accessible

– Detailed analysis of defects

**Cost:** £300-£500  

**Report time:** 3-5 working days

**Ideal for:** Modern homes, new builds, or properties in obviously good condition where you want basic peace of mind.

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### Level 2: RICS Homebuyer Report (Standard Survey)

**Best for:** Most properties built after 1900, conventional construction, reasonable condition

**What it covers:**

– Comprehensive visual inspection

– Detailed condition rating for each element

– Common defects and issues

– Advice on repairs and maintenance

– Estimated costs for major repairs

– Reinspection advice

– Optional market valuation

**What it doesn’t cover:**

– Inside concealed areas (requires removal of floorboards, etc.)

– Full structural survey details

– Testing of services beyond visual inspection

**Cost:** £400-£800  

**Report time:** 5-7 working days

**Ideal for:** Most house purchases. The most popular survey choice, offering comprehensive information at a reasonable cost.

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### Level 3: RICS Building Survey (Full Structural Survey)

**Best for:** Properties built before 1900, unusual construction, poor condition, listed buildings, significant alterations planned

**What it covers:**

– In-depth examination of property structure

– Full analysis of construction and materials

– Detailed description of all defects

– Expert advice on repairs with priority ratings

– Guidance on maintenance

– Technical information about the building

– Specialist reports recommended

– Ideal for renovation projects

**What it doesn’t cover:**

– Market valuation (can be added)

– Boiler servicing or electrical testing (can be arranged separately)

**Cost:** £600-£1,500+  

**Report time:** 7-10 working days

**Ideal for:** Older properties, buildings with obvious problems, properties you plan to renovate, or when you want the most comprehensive information possible.

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## Additional Specialist Surveys

### Timber and Damp Survey

Detailed inspection for woodworm, dry rot, wet rot, and damp problems. Often recommended if the main survey identifies concerns.

**Cost:** £150-£300

### Electrical Survey

Full inspection of wiring, consumer unit, earthing, and electrical safety. Essential for properties with old wiring.

**Cost:** £200-£350

### Drainage Survey (CCTV)

Camera inspection of underground drainage to check for blockages, damage, or root ingress.

**Cost:** £150-£400

### Japanese Knotweed Survey

Specialist identification and treatment plan if this invasive plant is suspected on the property.

**Cost:** £200-£500

### Asbestos Survey

Identifies location and condition of asbestos in older properties (pre-2000). Required if renovating.

**Cost:** £250-£500

### Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Required by law for all property sales. Rates energy efficiency and provides improvement recommendations.

**Cost:** £60-£120 (seller usually provides)

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## Why Arrange Your Survey Through AIM Mortgages?

### Qualified RICS Surveyors

We work exclusively with Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) registered professionals who maintain the highest standards.

### Local Expertise

Our surveyors have in-depth knowledge of local properties, common issues in the area, and regional building styles.

### Competitive Pricing

Access to competitive survey rates through our established network, often cheaper than sourcing independently.

### Fast Turnaround

Priority service for our clients means quicker survey appointments and faster reports.

### Coordinated Service

We schedule your survey to align with your mortgage timeline, preventing delays in your purchase.

### Easy to Understand Reports

Clear, jargon-free reports with photos and traffic light ratings make it easy to understand findings.

### Ongoing Support

We’re here to discuss the survey results with you and advise on how they might affect your mortgage or purchase decision.

### One-Stop Convenience

Book your survey alongside your mortgage and conveyancing for a seamless property purchase experience.

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## Understanding Your Survey Report

### Traffic Light Rating System

**🟢 Green (Condition 1)**

No urgent issues. Normal maintenance required.

**🟠 Amber (Condition 2)**

Defects requiring attention but not urgent. Factor into your budget.

**🔴 Red (Condition 3)**

Serious defects requiring immediate attention. Significant costs likely.

### Common Issues Found in Surveys

**Damp & Condensation**

– Rising damp from failed damp proof course

– Penetrating damp through walls

– Condensation from poor ventilation

**Structural Problems**

– Subsidence or settlement cracks

– Wall tie failure

– Lintel problems

**Roof Issues**

– Missing or damaged tiles

– Aged felt or sarking

– Gutter and downpipe problems

**Timber Defects**

– Woodworm infestation

– Wet or dry rot

– Structural timber issues

**Services Concerns**

– Old electrical wiring

– Outdated heating systems

– Plumbing issues

**External Issues**

– Rendering cracks or failure

– Pointing deterioration

– Drainage problems

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## What Happens After the Survey?

### 1. Review the Report

Read through carefully, paying attention to Condition 3 (red) items first. We can help explain any technical terms.

### 2. Obtain Quotes

For significant issues, get repair quotes from qualified tradespeople. This helps you understand true costs.

### 3. Decide Your Next Steps

**Option A: Proceed as Planned**

If issues are minor or acceptable to you, continue with the purchase.

**Option B: Renegotiate Price**

Use the survey to negotiate a price reduction reflecting repair costs. We can advise on reasonable deductions.

**Option C: Request Repairs**

Ask the seller to fix problems before completion. Get agreements in writing.

**Option D: Request Further Investigation**

Commission specialist surveys for specific issues to understand extent and cost.

**Option E: Withdraw**

If problems are too severe or costly, you can withdraw before exchange of contracts with no penalty (though you’ll lose survey and legal costs incurred).

### 4. Adjust Your Mortgage if Needed

Major findings might affect your mortgage. We’ll liaise with your lender and find solutions if the valuation or loan amount is affected.

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## Common Survey Questions

**Do I really need a survey?**

While not legally required, surveys are strongly recommended. Most homebuyers who skip surveys later regret it when expensive problems emerge.

**My lender is doing a valuation – isn’t that enough?**

No. A mortgage valuation is for the lender’s benefit, not yours. It’s a basic check that the property is worth the loan amount, not a condition report.

**How long does a survey take?**

Physical inspection: 2-4 hours depending on property size. Report delivery: 3-10 working days depending on survey level.

**Can I attend the survey?**

Usually no. Surveyors work independently to remain impartial. However, you can request a brief discussion afterward in some cases.

**What if the survey finds major problems?**

We’ll discuss your options: proceed, renegotiate, request repairs, or withdraw. You’re protected as you haven’t exchanged contracts yet.

**Can I use the survey to reduce the price?**

Yes, significant defects provide strong negotiating leverage. We’ve helped many clients achieve price reductions following survey findings.

**How long is a survey valid?**

Typically 3 months. If you delay completion beyond this, you may need an update inspection.

**Do I need a survey on a new build?**

Yes! New builds can have defects and snagging issues. A survey ensures quality and provides evidence for developer remediation.

**What if I’m buying at auction?**

Survey BEFORE the auction. You’re legally committed once the hammer falls, so you must know the condition beforehand.

**Can I see previous surveys?**

Sellers aren’t required to provide previous surveys, though some do. Always commission your own as circumstances change.

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## Survey Costs vs. Potential Savings

### What Problems Cost to Fix

**Damp proof course:** £1,000-£3,000  

**Subsidence repairs:** £5,000-£50,000+  

**Roof replacement:** £5,000-£15,000  

**Full rewiring:** £3,000-£8,000  

**New boiler:** £2,000-£4,000  

**Timber treatment:** £1,000-£5,000  

**Drainage repair:** £500-£5,000  

**Rendering:** £3,000-£10,000  

A £600 survey that uncovers a £10,000 problem and saves you from a costly purchase mistake is money extremely well spent.

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## Tips for Getting the Most from Your Survey

### Before the Survey

– Provide surveyor with any concerns you have

– Mention specific areas you want examined

– Note any visible issues you’ve spotted

– Share any history you know about the property

### During the Survey Period

– Ensure property access is arranged

– Request access to lofts, cellars, and outbuildings

– Make sure electricity and water are on

### After the Report

– Read it thoroughly, don’t just skim

– Highlight anything you don’t understand

– Create a list of questions for your surveyor

– Get quotes for significant repair work

– Use findings in negotiations

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## New Build Surveys – Are They Needed?

**Absolutely!** New builds can have:

– Snagging issues (poor finishes, misaligned doors, scratches)

– Structural defects (foundation issues, inadequate insulation)

– Service problems (plumbing leaks, electrical faults)

– NHBC warranty concerns

A new build survey (or snagging survey) identifies issues before legal completion, giving you leverage to ensure the developer fixes problems before you move in.

**New Build Survey Cost:** £400-£700

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## Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas

Properties in listed buildings or conservation areas require specialist surveyors with heritage experience. These surveys cover:

– Historical construction methods

– Period features and their condition

– Planning restrictions for repairs

– Specialist materials needed

– Conservation officer requirements

**Cost:** £800-£2,000+

We work with heritage specialists who understand the unique challenges of historic properties.

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## Survey Red Flags That Might Affect Your Mortgage

Some survey findings can impact your mortgage approval:

### Serious Issues

– Active subsidence

– Severe structural damage

– Japanese knotweed close to property

– Significant fire or flood damage

– Underpinning required

### Property Type Issues

– Non-standard construction (steel frame, concrete, etc.)

– Thatched roof

– Flat above commercial premises

– Properties with bats or protected species

If any of these are found, don’t panic. We work with lenders who specialise in non-standard properties and can usually find a solution.

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## Ready to Book Your Survey?

Don’t take chances with the biggest purchase of your life. A professional survey provides the peace of mind you need and the information you deserve.

**Contact AIM Mortgages Today:**

– **Call us:** [Your Phone Number]

– **Email:** [Your Email]

– **Book online:** [Link to Booking System]

**Free Survey Quote – RICS Qualified Surveyors**

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## Complete Property Purchase Service

At AIM Mortgages, we provide everything you need:

✓ **Residential Mortgages** – Whole of market access  

✓ **Conveyancing** – Trusted legal partners  

✓ **Property Surveys** – RICS qualified surveyors  

✓ **Wills & Trusts** – Protect your investment  

Let us coordinate your entire property purchase from one place.

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**AIM Mortgages – Your One-Stop Shop for all Property Needs**

*A survey is a report on the condition of a property. It does not constitute a warranty and cannot guarantee the future condition of the property. All surveyors are RICS registered professionals.*