Having a survey done on a prospective property is a great way to help inform your purchase and potentially negotiate lower prices. A house survey is also a critical part of selling — you want to make sure you get an accurate price for your property. But if you don’t know what to do beforehand, the process might seem stressful, which is the last thing you want on top of moving house.
Luckily, with some preparation in advance, you can cut down on the stress and get the best possible results from your survey. Follow these simple tips to make sure your valuation goes as efficiently as possible.
Declutter
A good place to start is by moving all the knick-knacks and personal belongings out of the way. Ornaments, pictures, toys — anything that might get in the way of an inspection. It’s important that the surfaces of the house are visible and accessible, as the surveyor will be looking to inspect the structural condition of the property.
Windowsills in particular should be kept clear as they’re a prime location for mould. If you’re moving out, you’ll need to pack all your belongings away regardless, which makes this a good opportunity to hit two birds with one stone.
Clean the property
Thoroughly cleaning your house is an effective way of making a good impression and increasing the value of your home. Dust surfaces, clean carpets, and remove any mould to get rid of unwanted smells and must that could affect the valuation. The bathroom is often the worst culprit, so you might want to give it special attention.
Do minor repairs
Major repairs such as electrical or roofing problems are best left to the experts, but if your house needs any minor repairs then you could consider taking care of them yourself. Issues such as mould, dripping taps, and hairline decorative cracks can all be fixed at home with the right equipment and some DIY know-how. This could increase the value of the property and save you money in the long term — the fix may be worth more than you paid.
Make all doors and windows accessible
All areas of the house should be accessible, which means all rooms should be unlocked and all windows able to be opened with keys nearby. The surveyor will check the condition of the windows and look for double glazing in every room. This includes the attic, so make sure that it’s easy to get to and not too cluttered with storage.
Move heavy furniture from the walls
At all levels of surveys, the surveyor will inspect the walls of the property, meaning it’s important that they stay clear and easily accessible. Heavy furniture along the walls should be moved closer to the middle of the room, clearing a path for the surveyor. This will help save time and help the survey run more smoothly.
Don’t forget the exterior
You might be focused on the inside of your house, but it’s essential not to forget the exterior — it’s the first thing people will see, after all. Overgrown plants can sometimes cause damage to the exterior of a property, so you may want to be on the lookout. Sheds, paths, and fences are all part of the house and will be taken into account during the survey, so make sure they’re all in the best condition possible before the survey.
Torus Surveyors: RICS registered valuers in Manchester
Whether you need a Level 1, 2, or 3 valuation, as chartered building surveyors we have the experience and expertise to perform your house survey to the high standards expected of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors. Now you know how you should prepare your residential property for a survey, don’t hesitate to contact us for help with your valuation.