Here, we’ve compiled answers to the most common questions we receive to make your experience smoother and more informed. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or experienced investor, this resource provides immediate clarity on our services. If you need further assistance, our dedicated team is ready to offer personalised support, just get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page.
1. Should I get a survey before agreeing on the property price?
Not necessarily. You can make an offer without a survey, but always make sure your offer is subject to survey. This protects you, as the survey will reveal any hidden issues before you’re legally bound. If problems are found, you can renegotiate, adjust repair costs, or walk away with minimal risk. In some cases, the asking price already reflects known issues, so the report helps you understand whether the property still meets your expectations. If the survey confirms everything is as anticipated, you can proceed with confidence.
2. Can I use the survey to negotiate the price I pay for my new home?
This is one of our most frequently asked questions, and the answer is absolutely yes. A survey can uncover defects or maintenance issues that impact the property’s value, giving you leverage to renegotiate the purchase price or request repairs before completion. Your initial offer should always be made ‘subject to survey’ to ensure you’re fully informed and protected.
3. How do I know which type of survey I need?
Our role is to help you choose the right survey. Many people are advised to get expensive Building Surveys unnecessarily.
To make things easier, you can try our quick Survey Selector Tool or speak to us directly via phone or WhatsApp for a free consultation tailored to your property and needs.
4. Can you recommend contractors if repairs are needed?
Surveyors are bound by professional codes not to recommend specific contractors. However, we can advise you on reputable professional bodies who can direct you to qualified local specialists.
5. How long will the survey take?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, every property is different, and so is our approach. We don’t believe in quick, box‑ticking inspections. Our surveys are bespoke and tailored to your property and needs, which means we take as long as needed to examine every accessible area in detail. After the site visit, we conduct in‑depth analysis and prepare a clear, comprehensive report, rather than giving rushed answers on the spot.
6. When will I receive my survey report?
Your report is usually ready within 3–5 working days of the inspection. We take the time to analyse every detail and present our findings clearly, rather than rushing out a generic report. Our goal is to provide precision and insight you can rely on, delivered as efficiently as possible without compromising quality.
7. Is a valuation the same as a survey?
No, they’re completely different. A valuation simply tells you the property’s market value, but a survey thoroughly inspects the building and uncovers any defects, risks, or costly issues. Having your own independent surveyor inspect the property is essential for understanding what you’re buying.
8. Does my bank or building society carry out a survey for the mortgage?
No. Banks and building societies only carry out a valuation, not a detailed survey. Their valuation simply assesses whether the property is sufficient security for the mortgage. Often, these valuations are undertaken via a quick visit and will not provide sufficient information about defects or repair issues that could be significant to you. It’s vital you arrange your own independent survey to fully understand the condition of the property you’re buying.
9. Are you an independent company?
Yes. We have no affiliations with estate agents or mortgage brokers. Our independence ensures our advice and valuations remain impartial and solely focused on your best interests.
10. How is the survey appointment arranged?
If you’re buying a property, we liaise with the seller’s agent or current owner to arrange a convenient survey date and conduct pre-inspection protocols. For valuations on your own property, we agree a suitable time directly with you.
11. Will you inspect specialist installations like electrics or gas?
Our surveyors do provide broad comments on these areas and flag any concerns. Detailed technical inspections/testing of services require specialists such as NICEIC (electrics) or Gas Safe registered engineers.
12. Are your surveyors qualified and accredited?
Yes, every survey is carried out by a professionally qualified surveyor who is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and also accredited by the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE).
13. Are you a regulated surveying firm?
Yes, Livingstone Surveyors & Valuers is a firm fully regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). That means we’re bound by a strict code of conduct, independent oversight, and ongoing quality standards, giving you complete peace of mind.
14. Why choose Livingstone for my survey or valuation?
Unlike many firms, we deliberately limit the number of appointments we take each week, so every client receives our full attention and support. You won’t just get a report by email and be left on your own, we believe in clear, personal communication at every stage. That means proactive updates before and after the survey, fast responses to your questions, and a free follow-up consultation to discuss your report in plain English. Our approach is hands-on, caring, and tailored to your needs. With deep local knowledge and genuine client care, we’re committed to making the whole process smooth, transparent, and reassuring from start to finish.
