Compare Homebuyer Surveys in Chester

Save up to 70% off your surveying costs
Regulated Property Surveyors
Used by over 1 million movers in the UK
Used by over 1 million movers in the UK
Helping people save for over 10 years
Save up to 70% on the cost of moving

Moving House in Chester? Save Up To 70% On Your RICS Level 2 Survey

If you’re searching for an experienced and professional property surveyor in Chester then rest assured, you’re in the right place. Here at Compare My Move, we can match you with up to 6 RICS registered surveyors in your local area, helping you save up to 70% on your surveying costs.

Every partner that enters our network must first be put through our stringent verification process, ensuring every surveying partner is RICS registered. We only work with the best property surveyors in Chester, meaning you will only ever get connected with experienced and qualified professionals offering high-quality services.

Chester boasts a variety of property types ranging from traditional Victorian terrace houses to large, modern detached homes with plenty of space. It is also one of the UK’s best-preserved walled cities with a variety of beautiful architecture. If you decide to purchase one of the city’s older properties, it’s still advised you arrange a RICS Level 3 Survey to assess its structural condition.

Our Chester Chartered Surveyors

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    FAQs About Surveying in Chester

    Our expert team have worked hard to answer all your vital questions concerning the surveying process in Chester. Our unique data found that the most popular survey type amongst our users in the area is the RICS Level 2 Survey. 

    We also discovered that Chester has a slight risk of subsidence, but a higher risk of Japanese Knotweed infestations. When purchasing a new home in the city, don’t forget to compare surveying quotes to ensure you’re connected with a verified and trusted property surveyor.

    Our unique data revealed that the majority of property buyers in Chester require a RICS Level 2 Survey, with approximately 69% of our users comparing quotes for this survey type. The remaining 31% require a RICS Level 3 Survey for their property purchase, with 13.93% specifically purchasing detached properties. As detached homes are typically larger, they have the potential to acquire larger problems - this is why it's understandable why many buyers of this property type require RICS Level 3 Survey.

    With over 31.15%, many of our users requested a RICS Level 2 Survey when buying semi-detached properties, closely followed by those purchasing detached properties. Due to the many suburban areas in Chester, it’s not surprising that these are the most popular and regularly requested property types. The RICS Level 2 Survey includes an inspection that is most suited to properties less than 80-years of age, which again covers many of the semi-detached and detached homes in the area.

    There appears to be less demand for surveys suited to flats in Chester, with only 2.46% of users comparing quotes for RICS Level 2 Surveys and 0% for RICS Level 3 Surveys. This isn’t very surprising as the city is a mostly suburban area where flats and apartments are in less demand. Chester is an especially great place for growing families due to the spacious and desirable housing opportunities.

    When buying a house in Chester, you shouldn’t underestimate the importance of hiring a fully regulated and experienced surveyor. If you’re interested in the older properties the city has to offer, then a RICS Level 3 Survey will provide the thorough and in-depth inspection needed to assess the building’s condition. If you’re considering buying a property that is less than 80-years of age, then a RICS Level 2 Survey should suffice and provide any details on current defects.

    Popular Survey Types in Chester
    Popular Survey Types in Chester

    What Types of Historical Architecture Does Chester Have?

    The city of Chester was originally founded as a Roman fortress in the first century A.D. This is still evident today with many of the foundations and red sandstone walls still visible, as well as the remains of the Chester Roman Amphitheatre. There are also surviving examples of the city’s medieval history, with the two-tiered medieval galleries now acting as a shopping centre for locals and tourists.

    One of Chester’s most famous property types is the black and white half-timbered buildings, many of which were built during the Tudor period. There are also a variety of traditional terrace houses available as well as unique 17th century period homes that are extremely spacious. You may also notice a few farmhouses up for sale should you be looking for lots of green space and a perfect balance of country and city life.

    If you are considering buying an older property, it would be wise to consider arranging a RICS Level 3 Survey to ensure the home is thoroughly assessed.

    Our research also discovered that there are approximately 2,536 listed buildings in the borough, 650 of which are in Chester alone. Although unlikely, if you’re considering purchasing a listed building, it should be stated that you will require a specialist Listed Building Survey rather than a typical property survey as these properties are heavily protected and preserved by the local council.

    We also found that there are 97 conservation areas in Cheshire West and Chester, all of which can be found on the local council’s website. If you’re looking to purchase a property located in a conservation area, you will require special permission to carry out certain work on the home. There are 47 conservation areas in Chester city alone.

    Architecture Overview From Listed Buildings to Sales of New Buildings
    Listed Buildings2,536
    Conservation Areas97
    New Build Sales*0
    Existing Property Sales*455

    *Based on data for 2023

    Is Subsidence an Issue in Chester?

    The results of your property survey will highlight any future risk or current threat of subsidence in the home. A dreaded term for homeowners, subsidence occurs when the ground beneath a building sinks or collapses. During extreme cases, the foundations will also sink with it, causing an unstable structure. Signs of subsidence are not always visible which is why it’s vital you work with a professional and experienced surveyor to help with your purchase.

    As you can see on the UK Subsidence Map, Chester has a slight risk of subsidence. Whilst the majority of the surrounding areas do not show a history of the issue, there have been a few recorded cases of subsidence in Chester itself that potential buyers should be aware of. Whilst subsidence often occurs in more densely packed urban areas, it is still essential you uncover the issue as early as possible should it be present.

    When purchasing a new home in the city, don’t forget to keep an eye out for any signs of cracking within the property as this could be subsidence or another form of ground instability. If there are obvious signs, it’s advised you arrange a RICS Level 3 Survey as this will thoroughly assess the building, its structure and even the foundations. A RICS Level 2 Survey should also highlight signs of subsidence, but the report will not be as in-depth.

    Chester subsidence map taken from Geobear's website
    Chester subsidence map taken from Geobear's website

    Is Japanese Knotweed a Concern in Chester?

    Japanese Knotweed is a very invasive plant that spreads rapidly and can force its way through drains and even concrete walls. It is a plant that is very difficult to remove and can greatly devalue any property. You shouldn’t remove it yourself if found as it is extremely resilient with tough roots and is considered a controlled waste under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. If Japanese Knotweed is found on the property, you will need to hire a professional to remove it without damage.

    According to the Japanese Knotweed Heatmap, Chester has a moderate risk of Japanese Knotweed infestations. The map shows that there are 45 recorded occurrences within 4km of the city centre alone. The further from the city you move, the fewer occurrences have been recorded. However, as alarming as it may sound, if you do uncover evidence of Japanese Knotweed on or around the property, you can still consult with a professional to remove it.

    A property survey should highlight any signs of the invasive plant. If evidence of Japanese Knotweed is found, you can discuss the situation with your surveyor before deciding on your next steps. They should also be able to tell you of any trace of the plant in the surrounding streets, allowing you to be better prepared should you continue with the sale.

    Chester Japanese Knotweed heatmap taken from Environet website
    Chester Japanese Knotweed heatmap taken from Environet website

    Nearby Chester