RICS Defect-Specific Survey
for London Properties
A RICS Defect-Specific Survey is a focused inspection carried out by a qualified RICS surveyor to investigate a particular issue — such as cracking, damp, structural movement, or roof failure.
Unlike a full building survey, this is a targeted assessment designed to diagnose the root cause of a known problem and recommend the right course of action.
Whether you’re a buyer needing clarity before exchange, a homeowner facing visible defects, or a landlord managing repairs — this specialist report gives you expert evidence, photographic documentation, and clear advice on what to do next.
✅ RICS Accredited Surveyors
⚡️Same-week Slot available
Worried About a Specific Issue in Your London Property?
Don’t Leave It to Guesswork.
At Prime Building Care, our RICS Defect-Specific Surveys are tailored for when you notice one clear concern — but don’t yet understand the cause, the risk, or the cost
✅ There’s a visible crack in a wall, ceiling, or foundation — and no one can explain it.
✅ You’ve noticed damp patches, mould, or a musty smell that keeps returning.
✅ A part of the roof is sagging or uneven, and you’re unsure how serious it is.
✅ A previous survey flagged a defect but lacked detail or recommendations.
✅ You need an expert second opinion before exchanging contracts or starting repairs on a London home.
Don’t Let a Single Defect Escalate — Get Clarity from a RICS Surveyor
It’s easy to overlook a small crack, patch of damp, or area of uneven flooring — especially when a home appears modernised, well-decorated, or recently refurbished. But in our experience surveying London homes, these isolated issues often point to much deeper problems.
We’ve investigated single defects that turned out to be structural movement, timber decay, roof failure, or water ingress causing long-term damage — none of which were picked up in basic surveys or by general contractors.
That’s why we offer the RICS Defect-Specific Survey: a focused inspection by a qualified RICS-accredited surveyor, tailored to diagnose one visible issue in depth. Whether it’s a crack in a wall, sagging roofline, returning mould, or unexplained leak, our job is to find the cause, assess the risk, and advise on the next step.
You’ll receive a clear, evidence-based report, complete with photographs, condition ratings, and expert guidance — so you know whether to repair, investigate further, renegotiate, or walk away altogether. This is not a general overview. It’s professional clarity, for the moment when one issue demands serious answers.
No jargon. No upselling. Just the insight London buyers, landlords, and homeowners need — exactly when it matters most.
Why Londoners Trust Our
RICS Defect-Specific Surveys
Targeted Expertise for One Issue That Needs Answers
Our Defect-Specific Surveys are designed for when a single visible issue raises serious concerns — from a structural crack to damp penetration or roof distortion. We isolate the defect, investigate thoroughly, and give you clear, actionable guidance without unnecessary upselling.
RICS-Accredited Surveyors with Local Insight
Every inspection is led by a RICS-accredited surveyor who understands London’s unique housing stock — including period homes, conversions, and non-standard builds. We know what’s normal, what’s serious, and how to explain the difference.
Evidence You Can Use to Act — or Push Back
Whether you’re buying, repairing, or managing disputes, our reports give you photographic evidence, severity ratings, and recommendations backed by professional expertise — ideal for renegotiation, legal discussions, or contractor accountability.
Your Defect-Specific Survey in Three Focused Steps
Step 1
Book Your Survey Online or By Phone
Use our online form or call us directly to schedule your defect-specific inspection. We’ll confirm the issue you’re concerned about — whether it’s a crack, leak, or visible movement — and guide you through the process clearly from the start.
Step 2
We Investigate the Defect in Detail
A RICS-accredited surveyor will attend the property and carry out a focused inspection of the area in question. We look beyond the surface — identifying potential causes, contributing factors, safety risks, and how the issue fits within the wider condition of the structure.
Step 3
Receive Your Clear, Jargon-Free Report
Within 2–3 working days, you’ll receive a written report tailored to the defect. It includes photographs, severity ratings, and professional guidance — helping you decide whether to repair, investigate further, renegotiate, or seek legal or contractor advice.
Which RICS Survey Do You Really Need?
Here’s How to Decide
Still unsure whether you need a full structural survey — or just expert help with a single issue like a crack, leak, or damp patch?
Watch our short explainer to learn the differences between all RICS Surveys and discover which option suits your property best.and discover which one is right for your property in London. Whether you’re dealing with a known defect or buying a complex period home, we’ll help you choose the right survey — not the most expensive one.
Trusted by London Homebuyers and Property Professionals
Pricing
£395+VAT
Up to 3 Bedrooms
Ideal for flats, terraced homes, and smaller London properties with a single concern such as a crack, damp patch, roof leak, or suspected movement.
£495+VAT
Up to 5 Bedrooms
Recommended for family homes or altered properties where the defect affects a wider or more complex area — including rooflines, rear extensions, or structural junctions.
Custom Quote
5+ Bedroom
For listed buildings, bespoke designs, or hard-to-access areas, we offer tailored pricing based on scope and inspection requirements. Speak to us for a quick custom quote.
“We’d treated the same damp patch three times. Turns out it wasn’t condensation — it was a leaking parapet. Without this survey, we would’ve kept wasting money!”
— Nick P., Camden
RICS Defect-Specific Survey FAQs
Everything You Need to Know Before You Book
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It’s a targeted inspection of a single issue — such as a crack, damp patch, or roof concern — carried out by a RICS-accredited surveyor. We investigate the cause, assess the risk, and provide a written report with photos and expert recommendations.
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We commonly assess structural cracks, roof movement, leaks, persistent damp, ceiling distortion, timber decay, water ingress, and suspected subsidence. If you’re unsure, send us a photo or describe the issue — we’ll advise what’s best.
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Unlike a Level 2 or Level 3 report, this survey focuses only on one specific issue. It’s faster, more affordable, and gives you the detailed insight you need — without paying for a full property inspection.
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It’s ideal for London homeowners, landlords, buyers, or agents who have already identified one concern but want clarity before taking action — whether that’s legal, financial, or repair-related.
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Prices start from £395 + VAT for standard homes and £495 + VAT for larger or extended properties. Complex, listed, or bespoke properties may require a custom quote.
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Yes. You’ll get a professionally written report that includes photographs, severity ratings, diagnosis, and actionable recommendations. It’s designed to be used with contractors, agents, or legal advisers.
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Most surveys are completed within 3–5 working days, and reports are delivered 48–72 hours after inspection. Urgent bookings are available — just let us know.
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Absolutely. Our independent assessment gives you evidence to compare with other quotes, challenge unnecessary works, or hold contractors accountable for poor-quality repairs.
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Yes — we offer free, no-obligation pre-booking calls. Share your concern, and we’ll confirm if a defect-specific inspection is right for you.
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Yes. We cover every borough in Greater London, including Hackney, Islington, Camden, Greenwich, Lambeth, and more. Not sure if we serve your area? Just send us your postcode.