Am Surveys are independent surveyors. We pride ourselves on local knowledge and individual attention to our clients. The most important thing is that you know what you are committing yourself to in purchasing a property. If you would like the surveyor to talk through his findings with you, he will. If you don't understand anything, he will explain in simple terms. If, in six months' time, you get round to doing some work recommended in the survey and you find that you don't actually understand what you need to do, phone us. We will remember you, talk to you, visit to explain on-site if necessary.  

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That's an astute question. There is definitive data to pinpoint an exact figure for price reductions following surveys. Approximately 15 years ago, the average reduction was around £2,500, with 1 in 10 cases exceeding £10,000. Adjusting for inflation, these numbers would indeed be higher today. Furthermore, we're in a buyers’ market now, which can give purchasers an advantageous position during negotiations.

Interestingly, many often decide on a house within 10 to 15 minutes. It's a faster decision than most would take when buying a car. When an offer is made on a house, it's typically based on visible factors and known issues. Should a survey unearth additional problems, it can provide valuable leverage for genuine negotiation. Perhaps the property you're eyeing is in impeccable condition; however, to illustrate the spectrum of possibilities, we recently conducted a survey where identified defects would amount to more than £100,000 in repairs. We know that many customers save money, but it is not a question that we actively ask customers. Further discounts vary depending on economic conditions, such as “Is it a sellers' or buyers' market?”

We can't advise you on price negotiation, but we hope our reports are beneficial to you in highlighting areas of concern.

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It is a very interesting question; the answer is not so black-and-white. Surveys are essential because houses are sold as seen, and failure to have a professional inspection can result in insurance companies refusing to pay out if underlying issues have been picked up on a pre-purchase inspection. Also, when you make an offer on a property, it is on what you reasonably know about, so any additional information from the surveyor is beneficial for negotiation. After all, you don’t want to buy a house and later get costly surprises!

The survey report is not a bill of quantities or a schedule of rates; after all, the surveyor cannot anticipate every potential repair and to what specification you require the results to be. For example, you can buy a sink for £25 or 2 ½ thousand pounds.

The surveyor, however, is there to help and guide you, especially if there are severe issues with the property that need to be addressed. You can chat with your surveyor before the inspection and, indeed, as often as you want after the inspection. Some big-ticket items may be included in the report; usually, we can give additional information as part of the post-report consultation process.

We like to think that it is a personal service with the surveyor; after all, you will have the surveyor's mobile number, and you can contact him or her anytime.

If there is a specific issue you are concerned about, one of our surveyors would be more than happy to have a chat with you before you place an order.