By Andrew Lockwood, MRICS on the 11th of Octboer 2025.

A property survey is a vital step when buying a home, providing reassurance ot the buyer, identifiying defects and advsinig on potential issues that may arise. For a seller it will understandably fell bit intrusive. By making your property easiliy accessible ensures a much smother inspection for the surveyor and more accurate results. Proper prepartaion also speeds up the process.

At Lockwood Chartered Surveyors we have many years experience of undertaking property surveys across East Anglia and have written this guide to help things run smoothy on the day of inspection.

Step 1: Ensure Access

The surveyor will need to access all areas, including lofts, outbuildings and garages as well as any locked rooms. These areas should be unlocked before we arrive. For tenanted proeperties, notify the tenants to ensure cooperation.

Step 2: Clear Clutter and Obstacles to Save Time

Rest assured we are not there to judge the tidiness of your property, however moving furniture, clutter and stored items that may block walls, floors or other fittings is essential in allowing the inspection to proceed unhindered. Clearing lofts and basements/cellars, especially for a RICS Home Survey Level 3 is aso helpful. Make sure window and door keys are made available and that these open without obsruction. Lifting blinds against windows will also save time .

Step 3: Access to Serivces is Important

Ensure that the boiler, gas meter, water stop tap and electrical fusebox are all accessible. Also any external access to oil storage tanks which may be partially concealed by garaden furniture or vegetation. Having servie test certificates available and up to date will also save time avoid further questions down the line and reassures your buyer that the property has been well cared for.

Step 4: Flag Known Issues

If you are aware of any specifc defects or repairs, it is helpful to mention these rather than hope they go unnoticed. Being upfront speeds up the process and reduces the chance of surprise questions. Fixing minor defects like leaking taps, loose door furniture and window furniture ahead of the survey also helps on the day of inspection.

Step 5: Arrangements for Pets

If you have dogs or cats it is a good idea to keep them out of the way whilst we are inspecting the property. This helps avoid distractions that will prolong our inspection. Arranging for them to be out of the house temporailiy is a prefered option.

Why Choose Lockwood Chartered Surveyors?

  • We are a small local practice based in south Norfolk therefore have a broad knowledge of the local area and the different property types and their defects.
  • We have over 15 years experience in the property industry within Norfolk and Suffolk. 
  • We take our time and only work with a few clients per week ensuring a more thorough inspection and a more personable service.
  • We comply with the stringent guidelines set out by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to produce comprehensive and understandable reports.
  • We have a proven record of delivering quality advice to our clients. 
  • We remain on hand to answer queries following receipt of your report. 
  • Our fees are competitive and value based.