RICS Home Surveys

Buying a property is a major investment, whether you are purchasing a family home or buy-to-let property. The common law principle of caveat emptor (‘buyer beware’) puts the onus squarely on the buyer to investigate the property before signing on the dotted line, which is why having an independent survey carried out by a professional RICS accredited surveyor is highly recommended.

Why do I need a RICS survey?

Investing in property should never be undertaken lightly. Buildings can potentially have all sorts of issues that may not be obvious to the untrained eye. From timber defect to damp issues, outdated electrics to serious structural damage, only an independent survey will give you the peace of mind of knowing that an experienced Chartered Surveyor has taken a proper look and reported on their findings.

It is unfortunately the case that too many buyers don’t bother with a survey, especially if the property looks perfectly fine to them, and the mortgage valuation has thrown up no queries. This is a risky decision and one that could cost you dearly. The main benefits of a RICS property survey is that it will give you the necessary information regarding any defects, along with recommendations for remedial action, so that you can make the right decision on whether and how to proceed with the purchase.

Read Our Reviews

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Michelle Moore 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Silk Sharples Jennings, (SSJ) have staked their reputation on thorough assessments of two properties for us, bringing peace of mind about the good the bad and the ugly in all they expertly surveyed. With years of practice, Paul Sharples saved us thousands of pounds in what would have been a disastrous investment. He left no stone unturned, and from the tallest to the smallest of details he exhausted all efforts to expose his findings until the proof became apparent. We exited his office feeling relieved that the SSJ survey had been carried out, rather than full of regret that we had not purchased the property. Attention to detail has been a key theme throughout both survey reports. With a quick turnaround from Sian in the office, we could liaise using our brochure to pinpoint exactly what we needed to do and obtain realistic quotes, so we could continue with executive decision making and keep our senses tuned in to where we were at and what we needed to do. Mr. Sharples went beyond his inspections, seeing us personally to review exactly what his findings were. He ensured a descriptive and fair assessment of the second property and nailed every detail until we knew exactly what we were looking at. We are now confident about our purchase. Don't waste time buying a house and all it encompasses without consulting the best that money can buy. You might think you will save time and money by not doing a survey; but I sincerely doubt it. Even when the jobs listed are finalised on the property, we will continue to save thousands more than it cost us to pay Silk, Sharples, Jennings to ensure everything is correct and proper inside and out of the house, making a decent survey from SSJ the ultimate weapon in ensuring a watertight home If you are fortunate enough to come across a limited survey report, lucky you; it won't be because SSJ have cut corners, it'll be because you found an amazing house with nothing more than a solid foundation with iron clad assurance! 100% recommended.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Martin Ward 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Very detailed report which has helped us seek out the appropriate contractor to carry out the requisite improvement work.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Antony David Davies FRSA 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Grand professional company, highly recommended.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 R Benson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Fantastic service! David Silk at SSJ recently designed plans for an extension for us, and managed the planning application from start to finish. The process ran smoothly throughout, entirely due to the professional, reliable and friendly service I received from David. The plans were excellent, David understood what we were trying to achieve and used his knowledge & experience to suggest changes, which improved the design immeasurably. We were kept updated regularly during the process and David always delivered on time and exceeded my expectations. I would recommend David at SSJ to anyone in a heartbeat, clearly expert at what he does and a pleasure to work with.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 sophie groom 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Professional, reliable and helpful. David Silk recently designed and guided us through planning for a first floor extension, without his guidance I'm convinced we would not have planning permission. The drawings I received were high quality, David thought of everything from head height to space and light. David used his expertise, experience and initiative to liase with the planning office, ensuring an acceptable solution to meet planning requirements could be reached without the need for a lengthy appeal. When required David submitted redraws for my review within hours. David even took the time to contact me to inform me of regulation changes that would effect the build. I could not be happier with the level of service I have received.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Sam Hartley 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Really helpful, David was professional and friendly and has helped us right through the process.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Andrew Stephens 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
As a novice to the planning game. It can be daunting to say the least! on friends recommendation my partner and I approached David Silk as our preferred surveyor to plan our home extension. We have found David to be very professional, helpful,  easy to talk to. Approachable and considerate to what we thought might have been at times, basic questions. David always listened to our concerns and has assisted with instructing a structural engineer and approved building inspectors.  We have no hesitation in recommending David Silk of Silk Sharples Jennings Chartered Surveyors to assist anyone with their building ventures.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 John Smith 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
From overseas we bought an old house needing extensive renovation which due to Covid were unable to see it.  We engaged Colin to design and manage the renovations and alterations.  Despite all our communications being over Zoom etc Colin quickly grasped what we were wanting and developed plans meeting our requirements to retain the character of the house whilst bringing it up to modern standards and complying with all the regulations. and attending to the smallest detail.  He obtained us an excellent builder and as they ran in to various and some significant challenges kept us informed and overcame them to great results! Colin handled all the beaurocracy, finances etc and made the whole process stress free for us.  Despite significant extra unforseen work being necessary he was able to make savings elsewhere that enabled it to come in pretty much on budget. Now we have finally seen the house and are living in it we are very pleased with the result.  We have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Colin.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Keithyboy25 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Couldn't have done more for us in our extension planning and application. David was clear in his communication every step of the way, listening to our needs and guiding us through the possibilities and their implications. Felt well looked after and the entire process was smooth and trouble free. Would definitely recommend and use again
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Tim Robbins 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Excellent customer service from Dave, very friendly, honest and trustworthy. Dave was very knowledgable and informed us about everything. We would highly recommend the service.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 
    
 
 

Which RICS survey is best for me?

At SSJ Surveyors, we have a wealth of experience to put at your disposal. We offer the full range of RICS property survey, along with professional guidance to help you choose the best survey for your requirements.

• RICS HomeBuyer Report: Best suited to properties of conventional construction that are in reasonable condition and have not been significantly altered, and where no significant defects are suspected
• RICS Building Report: Recommended for older properties, non-standard properties or those that have been significantly altered or need substantial refurbishment

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is a highly respected independent professional body, and the leading organisation of property professionals in the world. RICS membership requires a high degree of experience and education from its members. Members, including the experienced Chartered Surveyors at Silk Sharples Jennings, are closely regulated and each surveyor has to follow a strict code of conduct to ensure high standards.

Why choose Silk Sharples Jennings?

Silk Sharples Jennings have been surveying property for over 20 years, having amassed a wealth of specialist knowledge of properties in Shropshire and across the West Midlands. We deal with all kinds of residential and commercial property, providing impartial advice to clients who trust our independent professional judgement and expert technical skills.

Get in touch for more information

For details about any of our RICS Surveys, or to obtain a no-obligation quote, please contact Silk Sharples Jennings. You can reach our team by phone 01743 461777 or email info@ssjsurveyors.co.uk, or send us a short message via our Contact Us page.

Residential Property Surveys

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Services