From Uncertainty to Clarity — Keith’s Homebuyer Experience in Upminster

We are proud to be a family-run, independent practice of RICS-accredited surveyors. Covering the whole of Essex, we provide honest, detailed property surveys that empower buyers to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Survey Overview

When Keith Thomas found a charming detached property in Bulphan, Upminster, it seemed like the perfect investment opportunity. With a spacious garden and classic character, the house appeared to tick all the right boxes. However, Keith understood that appearances can be deceiving, especially when making a life-changing decision like purchasing a home. That’s why he turned to Smart Home Surveyors, a trusted and RICS-regulated family-run practice, for a professional Building Survey in Upminster.

The Inspection

We conducted a comprehensive Level 3 Building Survey, performing an in-depth inspection of both the interior and exterior of the property. It didn’t take long before significant issues began to surface — issues that could have easily been overlooked without an expert eye.

Japanese Knotweed Discovery

During the external inspection of the rear garden, we identified the presence of Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica). Known for its aggressive growth and ability to cause extensive damage to foundations, drainage systems, and walls, this invasive plant is a major concern for mortgage lenders. Without proper treatment, the plant could severely impact both the property’s structure and its market value.

Internal Damp and Mould

Inside the home, severe dampness was evident, particularly below the window areas. We noted peeling paint, deteriorating plaster, and patches of black mould — indicators of significant moisture ingress. Poor ventilation and aged window frames had allowed water to penetrate, leading to unhealthy living conditions and long-term damage.

Signs of Structural Movement

The survey also highlighted past structural movement. We observed severely leaning garden walls and dilapidated outbuildings showing prominent cracks. These signs indicated potential stability issues that would need further evaluation and immediate attention to prevent further deterioration.

Recommendations Provided

Based on our findings, Smart Home Surveyors delivered a detailed and actionable report. Our recommendations included:

Specialist Treatment for Japanese Knotweed:

Implement a professional remediation plan along with the necessary legal disclosures to ensure future mortgage eligibility.

Damp Proofing and Repair Work:

Arrange for a full damp survey and carry out essential repairs to improve ventilation and prevent further water ingress.

Structural Engineer Assessment:

Commission a qualified structural engineer to confirm the property’s structural stability and recommend appropriate reinforcement or rebuilding measures.

How a Building Survey in Upminster Gave Keith Full Control Over His Investment

At Smart Home Surveyors, our independent RICS-accredited team conducted a detailed Level 3 Building Survey that uncovered hidden issues Keith couldn’t have spotted alone.
We didn’t just hand him a list of problems — we equipped him with a complete understanding of the property’s true condition.

Our report included:

✅ A full Japanese knotweed remediation plan, outlining legal responsibilities and treatment options.


✅ A comprehensive damp proofing strategy with practical repair recommendations.


✅ A referral to a trusted structural engineer for further investigation and safeguarding.

The Result

Armed with a complete understanding of the property’s true condition, Keith was able to make an informed decision. Although he initially had agreed on a purchase price, our survey findings enabled him to renegotiate based on the costs of necessary remedial work. Rather than walking away or blindly investing, Keith moved forward with confidence — knowing the exact challenges ahead and how to address them. Thanks to our Building Survey in Upminster, Keith turned a potentially risky investment into a manageable and rewarding project.

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Why Choose Smart Home Surveyors?

At Smart Home Surveyors, we are committed to helping homebuyers in Upminster, Essex, and surrounding areas make informed, confident decisions. Our expert surveys provide a clear and honest picture of the property’s condition, ensuring no surprises after you move in.

The energy performance certificate cost in the UK depends on the property type and size. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requires whenever a property build, sold, or rented. The certificate gives information on the property’s energy use and typical energy costs. It also provides recommendations on how to improve the property’s energy efficiency. The certificate is valid for 10 years.

EPC produce by accredited surveyors who will visit the property and carry out an assessment. The surveyor will then create a report used to generate the certificate

If you plan to sell or rent your property, you must obtain an EPC. The energy performance certificate cost is an essential factor to consider when budgeting for the sale or rental of your property.

How does the cost of the EPC fluctuate?

The cost of an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) can fluctuate for several reasons. For example, the size of the assessed property can affect the cost. As more significant properties may require more time and effort to assess, resulting in a higher fee.

The property’s location can also impact the cost of an EPC. The cost of labour and other expenses can vary depending on where the property is located. Additionally, the competition among providers of EPCs in a particular area can affect the cost, as providers may offer lower prices to attract more business.

Finally, the level of demand for EPCs in a specific area can also affect the cost. As prices may be higher when there is a high demand for EPCs and lower when there is less demand.

What includes in the EPC cost?

The cost of an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) typically includes the cost of the assessment itself. As well as accredited surveyor fees and taxes that may be applicable. The surveyor involves a professional assessor visiting the property to conduct a range of tests and measurements to determine its energy efficiency. The surveyor will then use this information to produce an EPC, which is a report that includes details of the property’s energy efficiency and recommendations for how to improve it. The Certificate rates the property’s energy efficiency on a scale of A to G, with A indicating “Very Efficient” and G pointing “Not Very Efficient.”

The EPC cost may include additional services such as a Summary of EPC results or advice on improving facility energy efficiency. In some cases, EPC costs may also include the cost of repairs or improvements necessary to bring the facility up to minimum energy performance standards.

How to check if your EPC surveyor is an accredited surveyor?

To check the eligibility of an accredited surveyor, you can contact the accrediting body that issued their accreditation. Surveyors who perform Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments in the UK. Surveyors must be accredited by an approved accrediting body, such as the National Accreditation Body (NAB). To check the eligibility of an accredited surveyor, you can contact the NAB and provide the surveyor’s name and accreditation number to verify their accreditation status. Alternatively, you can ask the surveyor to provide proof of their accreditation, such as a copy of their accreditation certificate or a letter from the accrediting body.

Also, avoid arranging an EPC assessment through a real estate agent or property management company. These may acquire additional charges.

Conclusion

Smart home surveyors have certified energy performance surveyors. We can evaluate your property and issue an EPC certificate for a cost inclusive of our time and the certification itself.

You can get a free quote for an Energy Performance Certificate today. (Limited Time offer)

      Energy Performance Certificate cost

      Frequently Asked Questions

       

      1. What does a domestic energy Assessor do?

      A Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) is a professional who is trained and accredited to carry out Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments on domestic properties. An EPC is a report that provides information on a property’s energy efficiency, including its current energy performance and recommendations for improving it

      2. How long does EPC take?

      The length of time it takes to complete an Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) assessment can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and complexity of the property being assessed. It is usually carried out within three days after receipt of the application. It doesn’t take long to complete an EPC assessment of a home. It takes 30  minutes on average. If the house is large, it may take some time to complete. When the surveyor comes to you, they will give you a better idea of ​​how long the process will take.

      3. What are the EPC exemptions?

      There are some exceptions or exemptions on Energy Performance Certificates. For example, buildings not used for living accommodation, such as agricultural buildings and certain industrial buildings, places of worship or building to be used for other religious activities, temporary buildings that are only going to be used for two years or less, and Buildings to be demolished by the seller or landlord with associated plans and monument protection documents.

      4. What are the Energy Performance Certificate Cost factors?

      Energy performance certificates (EPCs) are reports that provide information on the energy efficiency of a building. The cost of an EPC can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size and type of the building, the location of the property, and the availability of the assessor.

      Do you have any Query? Schedule a free consultation call with our Survey Expert!

      Do you have any Query? Schedule a free consultation call with our Survey Expert!