Property Survey Blog & Expert Advice

Insights, tips, and guidance from RICS accredited surveyors

Welcome to the Ashford Surveyors blog. Here, our experienced surveyors share expert advice on property surveys, building defects, buying property in Kent, and everything you need to know about making informed decisions when purchasing residential or commercial properties. From understanding survey reports to identifying common structural issues, we're here to help.

First time buyers guide to property surveys
Buying Guides 12 min read

The Complete First-Time Buyer's Guide to Property Surveys

Buying your first property? Learn everything you need to know about property surveys, from choosing the right survey type to understanding your survey report. Essential reading for first-time buyers.

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Understanding damp and moisture problems
Property Issues 10 min read

Understanding Damp and Moisture Problems in Your Property

Damp is one of the most common issues found in building surveys. Learn to identify different types of damp, understand the causes, and discover what it means for your property purchase.

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Subsidence and structural movement guide
Structural Issues 11 min read

Subsidence and Structural Movement: What Every Buyer Should Know

Subsidence can seriously affect property value and safety. Our surveyors explain how to spot the signs, understand the causes, and make informed decisions about affected properties.

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RICS Level 2 vs Level 3 survey comparison
Survey Types 9 min read

RICS Level 2 vs Level 3: Which Property Survey Do You Need?

Confused about survey types? We break down the differences between RICS Level 2 homebuyer reports and Level 3 building surveys, helping you choose the right option for your property.

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Buying period properties and historic buildings
Period Properties 13 min read

Buying Period Properties: A Surveyor's Guide to Historic Buildings

Period properties offer character but come with unique challenges. Learn what to look for when buying Victorian, Edwardian, or Georgian homes, and why specialist surveys matter.

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Common roof problems found in surveys
Roof Issues 10 min read

Common Roof Problems Found in Building Surveys

Roof defects are among the costliest repairs. Our experienced surveyors reveal the most common roof problems we find, warning signs to watch for, and typical repair costs.

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Buying property in Kent guide
Local Market 11 min read

Buying Property in Kent: Local Surveyor's Market Insights

Thinking of buying in Kent? Our local surveyors share insights on the Kent property market, common regional issues, and what makes properties in Ashford, Maidstone, and Canterbury unique.

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Understanding survey reports
Survey Advice 8 min read

How to Read and Understand Your Property Survey Report

Received your survey report? Learn how to interpret findings, understand condition ratings, prioritize issues, and use your report to make informed decisions or negotiate on price.

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Japanese knotweed and property surveys
Property Issues 9 min read

Japanese Knotweed: The Complete Guide for Property Buyers

Japanese knotweed can affect property values and mortgageability. Learn to identify it, understand the risks, know your legal obligations, and discover treatment options.

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Survey costs and budgeting guide
Buying Guides 10 min read

Property Survey Costs: Complete Budgeting Guide for 2024

How much does a property survey cost? We break down pricing for different survey types, explain what affects costs, and show why professional surveys save money in the long run.

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New build property snagging survey guide
New Builds 11 min read

New Build Snagging Surveys: Why You Still Need a Surveyor

Think new builds don't need surveys? Our surveyors reveal common defects in new properties and why independent snagging surveys are essential before completion.

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Hidden property defects detection
Property Issues 9 min read

10 Hidden Property Defects That Surveys Detect

Discover the hidden problems that aren't visible during viewings but cost thousands to repair. Learn what professional building surveys reveal about your property's true condition.

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Estate agent valuation vs professional survey
Buying Guides 8 min read

Estate Agent Valuations vs Professional Surveys: Key Differences

Understanding the crucial differences between estate agent valuations and professional RICS surveys. Why you need both for informed property decisions.

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Rural properties and countryside homes survey guide
Rural Properties 12 min read

Surveying Rural Properties: Special Considerations for Countryside Homes

Rural properties present unique challenges from septic tanks to agricultural buildings. Our guide covers everything you need to know about surveying countryside homes in Kent.

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Common property survey mistakes to avoid
Buyer Mistakes 10 min read

7 Costly Mistakes Buyers Make With Property Surveys

Learn from others' mistakes. Our surveyors reveal the seven most common and expensive errors property buyers make with surveys, and how to avoid them.

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Need Expert Survey Advice?

Our RICS-accredited surveyors are here to help. Whether you have questions about property surveys, need advice on a survey report, or want to book a building survey in Kent, we're just a message away.