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.

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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.

    When buying a residential property, it is important to understand its condition and potential problems impacting its value. A surveyor is a specialist who can provide you with this information and help you make your purchase decisions. However, with so many different types of surveyors and professional organizations to choose from, it can take time to know whom to turn to.

    RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and RPSA (Residential Property Surveyors Association) are two of the most well-known organizations in the property surveying industry. This blog post will compare the two organizations and help you determine which type of surveyor is best for your needs.

    What is RICS?

      RICS is a global professional body that provides accreditation to surveyors and other property professionals. RICS members must adhere to strict standards of professional conduct, ensuring that they provide accurate and reliable advice to their clients. In addition, RICS provides continual training and assistance to its members, enabling them to keep abreast of the most recent business advancements and best practices.

      What is RPSA?

      The Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) is a professional organization specializing in the residential property surveying sector. Homebuyer reports, building surveys, and condition reports are just a few of the services that RPSA surveyors specialize in providing for residential properties. Additionally, the RPSA provides continuous training and assistance to its members, enabling them to keep up their knowledge of the residential property surveying industry.

      What type of surveys do RICS and RPSA surveyors provide?

      RICS surveyors can provide various surveys, including homebuyer reports, building surveys, and condition reports. Homebuyer reports are typically the most basic type of survey and provide a general overview of a property’s condition. On the other hand, building surveys are more detailed and comprehensively evaluate a property’s condition, including any defects or issues that may affect its value.

      On the other hand, RPSA surveyors mainly offer building surveys and homebuyer reports for residential properties. Although RPSA surveyors might offer fewer surveying services than RICS surveyors, they have a thorough understanding of the problems and difficulties that might occur with residential properties.

      The Key Differences between RICS and RPSA

      RICS and RPSA offer professional surveying services, but the two organizations have some key differences.

      Royal Institute Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA)
      Scope: 
      RICS has a global presence and provides a wide range of surveying services, including property, construction, and infrastructure surveys.      		Scope:
      Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) focuses exclusively on residential property surveying.
      Membership:
      RICS is well-known worldwide and has a far larger membership base.      		Membership:
      The RPSA is a more narrowly focused organization that conducts surveys.
      Standards:
      RICS has a more comprehensive and rigorous approach to accreditation. RICS-accredited surveyors must adhere to a strict code of ethics and must pass a comprehensive exam.      		Standards:
      RPSA set high standards for their members.
      Services:
      RICS offers various services, including property and construction surveys, valuation, and project management services.      		Services:
      RPSA focuses on residential property surveys, including building surveys, homebuyer reports, and condition reports.
      Cost:
      RICS is typically more expensive due to its comprehensive range of services and rigorous accreditation process.      		Cost:
      RPSA surveys can vary greatly depending on the size and type of property, its location, and the complexity of the survey.

      Which type of surveyor is best for you?

      The type of surveyor you choose will depend on your specific needs and the type of property you are buying. If you’re looking for a general overview of a property’s condition, a homebuyer report from an RICS or RPSA surveyor may be sufficient. However, a building survey from an RPSA surveyor may be the better option if you want a more detailed assessment of a property’s condition.

      The most important factor when choosing a surveyor is their expertise and experience. Whether you choose an RICS or RPSA surveyor, ensure they are fully qualified and have a proven track record of providing accurate and reliable advice to their clients.

      Residential Property

      In conclusion, when choosing the right surveyor for your property. You must consider your specific needs and the type of property you are buying. While RICS and RPSA surveyors can provide valuable insights into a property’s condition RPSA surveyors may be the better choice for buyers of residential properties who want a more detailed assessment of their potential purchase.

      Don’t wait any longer, take the first step towards a successful property journey with confidence by contacting the experts at www.smarthomesurveyors.co.uk. Our team can help you understand the difference between RICS and RPSA surveyors and find the right one for your specific needs. Let us help you make an informed decision and ensure a smooth process for your property purchase. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in finding the best RICS or RPSA surveyor for your property.

      Frequently Asked Questions

       

      1. Why should I choose a RICS or RPSA surveyor?

      Depending on your specific requirements and the kind of property you purchase, you should choose a RICS or RPSA surveyor. A RICS surveyor might be the best option if you want a more extensive survey. But if you’re only interested in a residential property survey, an RPSA surveyor would be more appropriate for your requirements.

      2. What type of surveys does RICS provide?

      RICS provides a range of property surveys, including HomeBuyer Reports, Building Surveys, and Valuations. These surveys are designed to help property buyers understand the condition of the property they are purchasing and identify any potential issues or problems.

      3. What type of surveys does RPSA provide?

      RPSA members provide residential property surveys in various forms, including HomeBuyer Reports, Building Surveys, and Valuations. These surveys are made to give complete details on a property’s condition and help buyers make informed decisions.

      4. Are RICS and RPSA surveyors regulated?

      Yes, both RICS and RPSA surveyors are regulated and must adhere to strict standards of professionalism and competency. They must also carry out regular training and continue developing their skills and knowledge to maintain their accreditation.

      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!