Leicester surveyors – RICS chartered surveyors serving Leicester LE1

www.structuralsurvey.co.uk 

01332 314039

steve@buildingsurvey.co.uk

234 Leicester Road, Leicester DE73 6RU

8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday

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Homebuyers Surveys in Leicester

Building/ Structural Survey in Leicester

Property Valuations 

Which Type of House Survey Should I Choose in Leicester?

Buying a property in Leicester or Leicestershire is likely to be the biggest purchase you will ever make. Choosing the right house survey can help you avoid unexpected repair costs and give you peace of mind before you buy.

A survey carried out by our Leicester-based RICS Chartered Surveyors could potentially save you thousands of pounds by identifying defects before you commit to the purchase.

Which? consumer magazine, the Council of Mortgage Lenders, and solicitors all recommend obtaining a survey from an RICS Chartered Surveyor, rather than relying solely on a mortgage valuation. A solicitor could even be considered negligent for failing to recommend this.

Is a mortgage valuation the same as a survey?

No – a mortgage valuation is not a survey

A mortgage valuation is carried out for the lender, not the buyer. Its purpose is to confirm that the property provides adequate security for the loan.

 

Mortgage valuations:

  • Focus on the lender’s interests rather than the property’s condition

  • May note defects only if they affect value

  • Are often brief inspections

  • May be desktop or automated valuations, with no visit to the property

For buyers in Leicester, a mortgage valuation offers very limited protection.

Property surveys from RICS surveyors in Leicester

An RICS property survey provides independent, professional advice on the condition of a property and highlights defects that could affect value, safety, or future maintenance costs.

There are three main types of RICS house survey available in Leicester.

 

Survey Level One: Condition Report (HCR)

The RICS Condition Report offers a basic overview of a property’s condition using a traffic-light rating system.

However:

  • It is designed to accompany a mortgage valuation

  • The surveyor is not required to inspect the roof space or lift drain covers

  • Important defects can be missed, particularly in older Leicester properties

Due to these limitations, Steve Butler Chartered Surveyors does not offer Condition Reports.

 

Survey Level Two: HomeBuyer Report in Leicester (HBR)

The HomeBuyer Report is the most popular house survey in Leicester and is suitable for around 95% of residential properties.

It is ideal for conventional homes in reasonable condition and provides clear advice on:

  • Serious defects

  • Urgent repairs

  • Issues that may affect property value

Our Leicester HomeBuyer Reports include a valuation and focus on what buyers really need to know, without unnecessary technical detail.

 

Survey Level Three: Building Survey in Leicester

A Building Survey is the most detailed property survey available and is especially suitable for:

  • Older or period properties in Leicestershire

  • Larger homes or listed buildings

  • Properties that have been altered or extended

  • Buyers planning renovations or structural works

The report includes detailed analysis of construction, condition, defects, repair options, and long-term maintenance.

 

Which house survey should I choose in Leicester?

  • A mortgage valuation protects the lender, not the buyer

  • An independent RICS survey in Leicester protects your investment

  • Surveys are particularly important for older Leicestershire properties

  • A survey can often help buyers renegotiate the purchase price

Survey fees vary depending on property type, age, and the level of survey required. Always ask what is included and discuss any specific concerns so they can be investigated during the inspection.

 

Local RICS Chartered Surveyors in Leicester

Steve Butler Chartered Surveyors provide professional, independent house surveys throughout Leicester, Leicestershire, and surrounding areas.

Whether you need a HomeBuyer Report or a Building Survey, our experienced Leicester RICS surveyors are here to help you make an informed decision.

?? Contact us today to arrange a house survey in Leicester.

Further information about surveys in Leicester

To understand more about the different types of surveys available and what they offer, view the Property Surveys leaflet which can be seen below

 Choosing between RICS Surveys

 

Frequently Asked Questions – House Surveys in Leicester
What is the best house survey to get in Leicester?

For most buyers in Leicester, a HomeBuyer Report (Level 2) is the best choice. It is suitable for around 95% of conventional properties and highlights serious defects, urgent repairs, and issues that could affect value. It also includes a valuation.

If the property is older, larger, heavily altered, or you are planning renovations, a Building Survey (Level 3) is usually more appropriate.

Do I need a house survey if I already have a mortgage valuation?

Yes. A mortgage valuation is not a survey and is carried out for the lender, not the buyer. It may not identify defects that could cost you thousands in future repairs.

An RICS house survey in Leicester provides independent advice on the condition of the property and protects your investment.

 

How much does a house survey cost in Leicester?

The cost of a house survey in Leicester depends on:

HomeBuyer Reports typically cost less than Building Surveys. Always ask what is included in the fee and ensure the survey is carried out by an RICS Chartered Surveyor.

Click for fixed price Homebuyers Survey Costs in Leicester

 

What is the difference between a HomeBuyer Report and a Building Survey?

A HomeBuyer Report is suitable for standard properties in reasonable condition and provides a concise overview of defects and urgent issues.

A Building Survey is more detailed and is recommended for older, larger, or altered properties, or where major works are planned. It includes in-depth analysis and advice on repairs and maintenance.

Are Condition Reports worth it?

 

Condition Reports provide only a basic overview and do not require inspection of key areas such as the roof space or drains. Important defects can be missed, especially in older Leicester properties.

For this reason, Steve Butler Chartered Surveyors does not offer Condition Reports.

 

Can a house survey help reduce the purchase price?

Yes. A property survey can identify defects or repair costs that may allow you to renegotiate the purchase price or request repairs before exchange of contracts.

This is one of the key benefits of commissioning a house survey before buying.

 

How long does a house survey take?

Most HomeBuyer Reports are completed within a few working days of inspection. Building Surveys may take slightly longer due to their detailed nature.

Your surveyor will confirm timescales when the survey is booked.

 

Who should carry out my house survey in Leicester?

Your survey should always be carried out by an RICS Chartered Surveyor. This ensures the survey meets professional standards and provides you with reliable, independent advice.

Steve Butler Chartered Surveyors provide house surveys across Leicester and Leicestershire.