Thank you – we have received your quote request.
We have your details and one of our team will be in touch shortly with your personalised quote. During working hours, we respond to most quote requests within an hour, and aim to respond to all of them within 24 hours. In the meantime, here is what to expect and quick answers to common questions.
Current availability: inspections are usually possible within about a week. To confirm the earliest date, call 0207 737 7243 or reply to your quote email.
What happens next
Confirm details
We confirm your property information and the type of survey you need.
Arrange access
We contact the estate agent or seller directly. You do not need to attend.
Inspection
Your surveyor carries out the inspection at the property.
Report delivered
Your report is usually ready within around ten working days of inspection.
Follow Up Call
If you would like to discuss the findings, you can book a call with your surveyor.
Why Choose Barnes and Barnes
Experienced RICS surveyors
All surveys are carried out by RICS qualified professionals with local London knowledge. This is especially valuable for older or more complex properties.
Detailed Illustrated Reports
We inspect all visible internal and external elements, including services and outbuildings, and comment on local and environmental factors such as flood risk or invasive species.
Clear Practical Advice
Condition ratings and plain English recommendations help you make confident, informed decisions.
Tailored to you
Tell us if you have concerns such as damp, cracking, roof, or timber issues and we will address these in the report.
Follow up included
Once you have received your report, you can book a call with your surveyor to discuss the findings.
Long Term Value
Our fees reflect the time, expertise, and diligence that go into producing reliable, professional reports.
Common Questions
Which home survey should I choose?
There are three RICS survey levels: Condition Report (Level 1), HomeBuyer Report (Level 2), and Building Survey (Level 3). The best option depends on the property’s age, condition, and whether you plan renovations.
What does a home survey cost?
Prices depend on the property, but as a guide: • Condition Reports from £300 • HomeBuyer Reports from £750 • Building Surveys from £1,000. Once we have your details, we will confirm an exact quote.
Why use a RICS Chartered Surveyor?
RICS surveyors follow strict professional standards, maintain ongoing training, and are fully insured. We have been registered since 2013 under the RICS Valuer Registration Scheme.
Do I still need a home survey if my lender is doing a valuation?
Yes. A mortgage valuation only confirms the value for the lender. It does not check the property’s condition. A home survey identifies issues that could cost you later.
Do you inspect gas and electrics?
We comment on the visible condition of services but do not perform specialist tests. We recommend separate safety checks, and we can help arrange these with trusted contractors.
Do I still need a home survey if my lender is doing a valuation?
Yes. A mortgage valuation is for the lender’s benefit, not yours. It confirms that the property’s market value covers the loan amount, but it does not check the property’s condition or identify defects. A HomeBuyer Report or Building Survey provides an independent assessment of the structure, materials and maintenance issues that could affect you after purchase. Many buyers who rely only on a mortgage valuation face unexpected repair costs later.
What is a market valuation and when might I need one?
A market valuation estimates what your property is worth in the current market. You might want to include one with your HomeBuyer Report or Building Survey if you:
- want reassurance that the agreed purchase price is fair
- are buying without a mortgage and want an independent check
- are renegotiating after the survey results
- need a valuation for probate, shared ownership or Help to Buy redemption
Our surveyors are RICS Registered Valuers, so your valuation meets the standards accepted by lenders and solicitors.
What is a Reinstatement Cost Assessment (RCA) and do I need one?
A Reinstatement Cost Assessment calculates how much it would cost to rebuild your property if it were destroyed or severely damaged (for example, by fire or flood). This figure is used by your buildings insurer to set the correct level of cover. If your property is under-insured, you may not receive enough to rebuild it. If it is over-insured, you may be paying higher premiums than necessary.
RICS recommends reviewing your RCA every year and arranging a full assessment at least once every three years, or sooner if you have extended, refurbished or significantly altered your home.
We can include an RCA alongside your survey or carry it out separately.
How long does it take?
We can usually carry out inspections within about a week, and deliver reports within ten working days.
Are you insured?
Yes. As RICS registered Chartered Surveyors, we hold full professional indemnity insurance for your protection.
Have a question about your quote?
If you would like to talk things through or check our current availability, our friendly team is happy to help.
Call us on 0207 737 7243 or reply to the email you’ll receive shortly.
