Surveying Guides & Insights
Practical guides on RICS home surveys, construction cost management, quantity surveying, and property — written by Adam Whitehouse, AssocRICS.
What Is a RICS Home Survey?
A complete guide to RICS home surveys — what they cover, who carries them out, and why they matter when buying a property.
RICS Level 2 vs Level 3 Survey: Which Do You Need?
Not sure whether to choose a Level 2 or Level 3 survey? This guide explains the differences and helps you choose the right survey for your property.
How Much Does a Home Survey Cost in the UK?
Survey costs vary widely. Here's what you can expect to pay for a RICS Level 2 or Level 3 home survey — and why the cost is almost always worth it.
What Is a Quantity Surveyor and What Do They Do?
Quantity surveyors are the financial managers of the construction industry. Here's what they do, why they're valuable, and when you might need one.
The Complete Guide to Construction Cost Planning
Cost planning is essential for keeping construction projects on budget. Here's everything you need to know about how it works and why it matters.
Understanding RICS Valuations: What They Are and When You Need One
A RICS valuation provides an independent, professional opinion of a property's market value. Here's when you need one and what to expect.
Home Survey Checklist: What to Do Before, During, and After Your Survey
Getting the most from your home survey means preparation before, engagement during, and action after. Here's your complete checklist.
What to Do After a Bad Survey Report
Your survey has come back with significant issues. Here's how to assess the findings, respond calmly, and decide your next steps.
RICS Home Survey vs HomeBuyers Report: What's the Difference?
The terminology around home surveys can be confusing. This guide clarifies the difference between old and new RICS survey names and helps you choose the right one.
How Much Does Building Work Cost in the UK? A 2025 Guide
From extensions to loft conversions, understanding construction costs helps you budget accurately and avoid nasty surprises.
A Guide to Construction Disputes: How They Arise and How to Resolve Them
Construction disputes are common and costly. This guide explains the main types of dispute, how they arise, and the options available for resolution.
Construction Procurement Strategies Explained
Choosing the right procurement route for your construction project is one of the most important early decisions you'll make. Here's a clear guide to the main options.
Risk Management in Construction: A Practical Guide
Every construction project carries risk. Understanding how to identify, quantify, and manage construction risk is essential to delivering projects on time and on budget.
Construction Retention: What It Is, How It Works, and Your Rights
Retention is one of the most contentious issues in UK construction. Here's a clear guide to how it works and what you can do if retention isn't released.
Pre-Contract Services Explained: What Happens Before Construction Starts
The pre-contract phase sets the financial foundation for your entire project. Here's what good pre-contract quantity surveying involves.
Final Accounts in Construction: A Complete Guide
The final account is the last major financial event in a construction project. Here's how the process works and how to protect your interests.
Why Construction Contract Reviews Matter: What to Look For
Signing a construction contract without a proper review is one of the most common mistakes in the industry. Here's what a contract review covers and why it's essential.
Getting a Home Survey in Yorkshire: What You Need to Know
Buying a property in Yorkshire? Here's everything you need to know about getting a RICS home survey in the region, from Barnsley to Scarborough.
Quantity Surveyor vs Architect: What's the Difference?
Many clients are unsure about the difference between an architect and a quantity surveyor. Here's a clear guide to each profession's role and when you need which.
What Is a RICS Registered Valuer and Why Does It Matter?
When commissioning a property valuation or survey with valuation, make sure your surveyor is a RICS Registered Valuer. Here's what the accreditation means.
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