Expert Surveying Services in Harlow
Able Surveyors is a trusted name across Essex, and we are proud to offer our comprehensive surveying services to the bustling town of Harlow. With over 25 years of experience, we provide detailed, accurate reports for home buyers and property owners across the area.
Harlow’s unique identity as a post-war New Town means it boasts a stunning variety of architectural styles, and our experienced team is equipped to handle them all.
We regularly conduct surveys of mid-century modern homes, flats, and bungalows across the original neighbourhood estates, and are experts in identifying the specific defects that can affect properties from that era. We also provide snagging reports and valuations for the many contemporary new-build developments expanding in and around areas like Church Langley, Newhall, and the wider town boundary.
Our most popular RICS Home Surveys
| Survey | Price |
|---|---|
| Level 2 Homebuyer Report | from £450 + VAT |
| Level 2 (above) plus Valuation | from £500 + VAT |
| Level 3 Building Survey | from £550 + VAT |
We also provide
- Structural Surveys
- Asbestos Sampling Survey
- Drone Inspection Survey
- Market Valuation
We are only a short drive away from our main office near Harlow and have spent many years surveying the area. Should you wish to write to us please find our address below.
Buying in Harlow
Whether you’re purchasing a family home on one of the mid-century estates or a contemporary flat near the town centre, our local office allows us to provide prompt and reliable service. Our expertise extends beyond standard reports to include structural surveys, drone inspections, and even asbestos sampling, giving you complete peace of mind when making one of life’s biggest investments. Are you looking for a specific type of survey, like a Building Survey or a Home Survey Level 2, for a property in Harlow?
Our Services
- Level 2 Homebuyer Report
The survey includes a detailed inspection of the interior and exterior features of a property and includes associated utilities and some aspects of the grounds. The methods used to investigate the property are non-invasive and are tailored towards conventionally-built properties. Homebuyer Report - Level 3 Building Survey
Previously known as a Building Survey (Level 3), the Level 3 Home Survey is the most comprehensive property inspection we offer. This in-depth home survey provides a detailed assessment of a property’s construction, condition, and any potential defects. Building Survey - Market Valuation
Property valuations are a crucial tool in a number of legal and property-based situations, from matrimonial matters, to tax planning, probate, insurance and mortgage valuations. Market Valuation - Structural Surveys
A Building Survey (formerly a structural survey) is a comprehensive inspection that provides a detailed analysis of a property’s construction and materials. It’s often a crucial step for prospective homeowners in Harlow, as lenders frequently require this report to evaluate a property’s suitability for a mortgage, especially for older New Town properties or homes with non-standard construction. - Asbestos Sampling Survey
Asbestos sampling is a vital service for anyone considering a property purchase in Harlow, as many buildings constructed before the year 2000 (including many New Town properties) may contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). Identifying these materials is crucial for assessing potential health risks and financial implications. - Drone Inspection Survey
Drone inspections utilise state-of-the-art technology to provide comprehensive inspections of hard-to-reach areas on properties throughout Harlow. Our drones allow for a detailed and accurate assessment of chimney stacks, roof coverings, and other intricate architectural details, which is especially useful for the many unique and often high-rise New Town properties found across the area.
When you’re searching for a new home in Harlow, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a property’s appearance and price. However, an independent survey is a crucial investment that many buyers in the area still overlook, instead relying solely on seller information or a basic mortgage valuation. This is an incredibly risky approach. A mortgage valuation is conducted for the lender’s benefit to confirm the property is worth the loan amount; it absolutely doesn’t provide a detailed assessment of the building’s condition. By commissioning a professional survey, you protect yourself from hidden defects—such as structural issues, damp, or other problems common in both older and New Town properties—that can lead to significant and costly surprises once you’ve completed the purchase. Do you have a specific property type in Harlow you’d like to discuss surveying options for?
At Able Surveyors, our job is to investigate all kinds of property to document its condition and identify any areas of concern before contracts are signed. This may be in the form of one of our property reports, a specific defect report or simply an independent valuation.
FAQs
- Why do I need a survey?
-
When you’re searching for a new home in Harlow, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a property’s appearance and price. However, an independent survey is a crucial investment that many buyers in the area still overlook, instead relying solely on seller information or a basic mortgage valuation.
- What about the mortgage valuation report?
-
It’s a common and costly misconception that your mortgage valuation will flag any defects with the property. This is simply not true. A mortgage valuation has one purpose: to inform your bank or lender whether the property’s value meets the agreed loan amount. It is entirely for their security, not yours. Crucially, it will not provide you with any reliable information about legal or structural issues. It’s not a proper survey and won’t protect you from unexpected repair bills once you’ve moved into your new Harlow home. Would you like to know the difference between a mortgage valuation and a Building Survey?
- Which survey do I need?
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Choosing the Right Survey for Your Harlow Home Every independent survey offers a different level of detail and information. The most cost-effective choice for you depends entirely on the property’s current condition and your future plans for it. To fully understand the differences between each report, please refer to our survey comparison table, or simply contact us to discuss your specific situation in Harlow. Do you know the difference between the RICS Home Survey Level 2 and Level 3?
VALUATION REPORT STARTS AT £350 +VAT
HOMEBUYER REPORT STARTS AT £450 +VAT
HOMEBUYER REPORT WITH VALUATION STARTS AT £500 +VAT
BUILDING SURVEY STARTS AT £550 +VAT
A visual inspection of the property to access condition
✕
✓
✓
✓
Detailed visual inspection for hidden defects
✕
✕
✕
✓
A “traffic light” grading system is used to indicate defects severity.
✕
✓
✓
✓
Identifies legal issues disputes pertaining to the property
✕
✓
✓
✓
Informed recommendations for repair options
✕
✕
✕
✓
Technical details of building construction and materials provided
✕
✕
✕
✓
Identifies future maintenance requirements
✕
✓
✓
✓
Mortgage valuation / reinstatement cost
(Where not included this can be provided separately)
✓
✕
✓
✕
Additional Drone Survey
(for a more detailed view of a properties roof)
✕
+£300
+£300
+£300
