Surveys are an essential part of buying, selling, or maintaining property.
But while today’s process is driven by cutting-edge technology and stringent regulations, property surveys have a fascinating history rooted in centuries of land assessment and valuation.
Property surveys have come a long way from the days of the Domesday Book, but the principles remain the same: to provide an accurate and reliable assessment of land and buildings.
Today’s chartered surveyors combine centuries-old expertise with cutting-edge technology to ensure that property buyers, sellers, and owners make informed decisions.
By working with a RICS surveyor, you can rest assured that you’re receiving the highest level of professionalism and protection for your investment.
Experts like our very own Joe Arnold continue to lead, shape and evolve an industry that is pivotal to both our society and our economy, very much the backbone of life in the UK.
Explore more…
A brief history of property surveys in the UK
The role of RICS and the importance of Chartered Surveyors
The expertise behind Arnold & Baldwin: Joe Arnold
Types of property surveys in the UK
Technology in modern property surveys
The value of working with RICS Surveyors
A brief history of property surveys in the UK
The practice of surveying land and property has been integral to British history, with origins going back to ancient times.
You may have heard of the Domesday Book of 1086. But did you know it’s one of the earliest recorded surveys in the UK, commissioned by William the Conqueror to assess land ownership and value for tax purposes?
This massive undertaking laid the groundwork for modern property assessment, with its detailed account of who owned what and how much it was worth.
Fast forward to the Industrial Revolution, when property surveys became more sophisticated. The rapid urbanisation and construction of new housing during this period required more formal systems of property surveys to ensure that structures were safe, well-constructed, and accurately valued.
This era saw the rise of professionals whose sole job was to assess land and buildings – the predecessors of today’s Chartered Surveyors.
Today, property surveys are a vital tool for anyone buying or selling property, with a range of survey types tailored to different needs. From historic methods rooted in land taxation to modern technologies, the field of surveying has evolved significantly over time, improving accuracy and transparency in property transactions.
The role of RICS and the importance of Chartered Surveyors
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is a professional body that plays a critical role in maintaining high standards in property surveying.
Founded in 1868, RICS sets the benchmark for professionalism and expertise in land, property, construction, and infrastructure. With over 130,000 members worldwide, RICS ensures that Chartered Surveyors adhere to stringent ethical and professional guidelines, safeguarding the interests of clients and upholding the integrity of the profession.
A RICS surveyor is qualified to carry out a variety of property assessments, from valuation to detailed building inspections. They are trained to adhere to the highest industry standards, ensuring that their clients receive reliable, transparent, and actionable advice.
Whether you’re purchasing a home, assessing a commercial property, or managing a portfolio, working with a RICS chartered surveyor provides peace of mind and confidence in the integrity of your property investment.
RICS surveyors are uniquely positioned to offer a range of services, including:
Homebuyers Reports
A mid-level inspection designed for conventional homes in reasonable condition.
Building Surveys
A more comprehensive and detailed analysis of a property’s structure, ideal for older or more complex buildings.
Valuation Reports
Assessing a property’s market value based on its current condition, location, and other factors. A RICS Market Valuation is the most reliable valuation you can get.
In short, RICS chartered surveyors are the gold standard in the industry, combining professional expertise with a commitment to protecting your interests.
The expertise behind Arnold & Baldwin: Joe Arnold
Joe Arnold is the heart of Arnold & Baldwin Chartered Surveyors. A highly respected chartered surveyor and industry leader with a proven track record of excellence, he also brings his more than 20 years’ experience to bear in the RICS Residential Survey Standards Working Group. In fact, Joe has played an instrumental role in shaping the standards of property surveying in the UK.
Joe’s expertise goes beyond just carrying out property surveys. He is deeply involved in setting the benchmarks for quality and professionalism within the field. His contributions to RICS ensure that the practices followed by RICS surveyors remain up-to-date, ethical, and aligned with the evolving needs of the property market.
A vision for the future
Joe Arnold’s leadership at Arnold & Baldwin reflects his commitment to innovation and client-focused service. He continually strives to adopt the latest technologies and methodologies in property surveying, from embracing drone technology for more efficient building inspections, to ensuring our team uses the most advanced digital reporting tools available.
Under Joe’s leadership, Arnold & Baldwin has become a go-to firm for comprehensive home surveys, helping clients across the UK make informed property decisions. His industry insights and hands-on approach have earned him a reputation not only as a leading chartered surveyor but also as a trusted advisor within the residential property sector.
Find out more about Arnold & Baldwin, our credentials and who we work with.
Community and industry influence
With over 8,400 followers on LinkedIn, Joe has established a strong online presence, sharing his insights, experiences, and the latest trends in property surveying with a growing audience. His focus on transparency, education, and client satisfaction has made him a thought leader in the field, fostering trust and engagement within both the local and national property communities.
Joe sits on RICS Residential Survey & Valuation Professional Group providing the RICS with industry insights helping shape the future of the profession. Did you know he helped write the RICS Residential Home Survey Standard?
Types of property surveys in the UK
When it comes to property transactions, there are different types of property surveys available to suit various needs. Understanding the differences between these surveys is key to choosing the right one for your property and your circumstances.
Condition Report
This is the most basic form of property survey, providing an overview of the property's condition. We recommend a condition report for newer homes or properties that are in good condition. The survey highlights any urgent issues, such as defects or potential safety hazards, but doesn’t provide detailed advice on repairs.
Homebuyers Report
A homebuyers’ report is a more detailed inspection of your property. We most often recommend it for conventional properties that appear to be in reasonable condition.
We look at structural issues, damp, rot, and any other major problems that could affect the property’s value or safety. While it provides a good level of detail, it doesn't include an in-depth examination of inaccessible areas.
Building Survey
A building survey, previously known as a full structural survey, is the most comprehensive type of property survey available. We recommend a building survey for older, larger, or more complex properties.
Building surveys go into greater depth, including a thorough inspection of all accessible areas and detailed advice on necessary repairs, future maintenance, and even the materials used in construction.
Valuation Report
Although a valuation report is not as detailed as a structural survey, it provides an estimate of a property’s market value. In most cases, we’ll carry out this type of report for lenders to ensure the property is worth the mortgage amount. However, we always stipulate that a valuation report is not a substitute for a full survey, and buyers should always commission their own property surveyor to avoid any hidden surprises.
Technology in modern property surveys
The introduction of technology has revolutionised how we as RICS surveyors conduct property inspections. Today, advanced tools like drones, laser scanning, and thermal imaging are being used to improve accuracy and provide a clearer picture of a property’s condition.
Drones
Particularly useful for inspecting roofs and hard-to-reach areas, drones allow home surveyors to capture high-definition aerial images, reducing the need for ladders and scaffolding.
Find out more about our drone surveys
Laser Scanning
This technology allows surveyors to create detailed 3D models of a property, which can be invaluable for renovation projects or historic buildings.
Thermal Imaging
Thermal cameras can detect heat loss, damp, and insulation problems that are not visible to the naked eye, offering a deeper understanding of a property’s energy efficiency.
While technology has made surveys more accurate and efficient, it’s important to remember that these tools are only as effective as the Chartered Surveyor using them.
We understand how expertise and experience remain crucial in interpreting the data and providing meaningful advice to our clients.
The value of working with RICS Surveyors
As the property market continues to evolve, the value of working with experienced and accredited RICS surveyors cannot be overstated.
Buying a home or investing in property is one of the biggest financial commitments most people make, and having the support of a trusted property surveyor ensures that you fully understand the condition and value of your investment.
Choosing a chartered surveyor who is RICS accredited offers several key benefits:
Professional standards
Our RICS surveyors adhere to a strict code of ethics and professional standards, ensuring that our advice is impartial, transparent, and always given in your best interests.
Peace of mind
Whether you're buying your first home or expanding a property portfolio, working with a RICS surveyor ensures that all potential risks are identified and addressed before you make a financial commitment.
Tailored advice
No two properties are the same. A qualified home surveyor will tailor their report to the specific characteristics of the property, whether it’s a listed building or a modern flat.
Whether you’re buying your first home, investing in real estate, or managing a property portfolio, Joe and our award-winning team provide the expertise and peace of mind that you need in today’s competitive property market.
Get in touch to ask us anything property related!
You can also call on 020 8642 2999 or send email us at surveryor@ardnoldandbaldwin.co.uk
