Surprise elimination - this is the most important part of our service to our clients. If you know about an actual or potential problem before purchase, you can deal with the consequences. This may mean you need to do nothing, or there may be a case for renegotiating the price and sometimes even purchasing an alternative property.

If you are an expert on buildings and construction and you are happy to risk what is likely to be the single biggest transaction you personally undertake, then perhaps a survey may not be for you. However, we advise caution.

If the property is modern and you don't require a fully detailed report The RICS HomeBuyer is ideal. This should point to any defects or problems that are significant or that need attention. The HomeBuyer report is also most suitable for flats.

If the property is older, of non-standard construction, in poor condition or in need of major renovation, you should have Building Survey. This is more detailed and should include extensive technical information, as well as pointing out significant defects.

If the property is new, you should instruct a snagging list, which is non-descriptive, but gives a list of defects with the property that can be passed to the developer for attention.

The survey will concentrate on significant items that are likely to affect your buying decision. Minor defects and other information, such as the number of plug sockets, are unlikely to be reported. You should look at our sample reports.

No - our inspections and reports are comprehensive and should provide the survey information you need to aid your buying decision. There are occasions when we have to refer you to specialists to obtain further advice - mainly for more detailed reports on gas or electrical installations. However, this is avoided if possible. For larger repairs, we may recommend you obtain estimates, prior to exchange of contracts.

Yes, our surveys usually include both a market valuation for the simple reason that the property may be in very good condition, but over-priced or vice-versa.

An assessment for reinstatement cost for buildings insurance purposes is also normally included - you insure your property on exchange of contracts.

No. If you are arranging a mortgage, your lender will instruct their own valuer to do complete a mortgage valuation. This is a brief inspection to assess the property as security for a loan. A mortgage valuation is not a survey and you are strongly recommended not to rely on such a report. You should note that often these valuations are often undertaken on a 'drive-by' or 'desktop' basis and the property may never be physically inspected by the valuer.

We can often complete a mortgage valuation in conjunction with your survey at minimal extra cost. However, many lenders charge high fees for this work and try and keep it 'in-house'.

Our fees are always competitive and offer great value. Whilst we may not always be the cheapest, we can assure you we are the best.

Some people are tempted by low fees often offered by other surveyors and lenders. This is false economy - surveyors all have similar overheads and you only get what you pay for. Ask yourself - if the fee is much cheaper what corners are being cut?

See the comparison report  between a Marshalls report and a typical lenders survey.

One of the partners or senior surveyors of Marshalls who are all Chartered Surveyors of many years standing. Our surveyors are highly experienced, have extensive local knowledge and are thoroughly trained in surveying buildings - it's all we do.

We are completely independent and don't pay or accept commissions. Most importantly, your survey will not be passed to a third party for a fee share.

We believe it is our job to help you buy the property - no building is perfect and our most useful qualification is common sense.

Fees depend on the type, value and size of the property. You can get an instant quote, free and without obligation by clicking on Quotes. If you are happy with the quotation, you can instruct us online, sit back and wait for your completed report. There are various payment methods and we accept all major cards.

Alternatively, you can call or visit one of our offices.

When you instruct us, we will book the survey immediately and inspect as soon as possible, usually within a few days. Our surveyors undertake the surveys in the morning and you should receive a telephone call with a verbal report later in the day. We aim to e-mail HomeBuyer reports within 24 hours and Building surveys within 48 hours.

Our reports are usually delivered as signed PDF's. They are written in plain English and are richly illustrated with numerous photographs. The reports are not 'dumbed' down, but are still easy to read and understand. There are some sample reports on our surveys page.

Yes - your surveyor is here to help. You can highlight areas of concern, plans for alterations or any other matters in advance. The surveyors will also be happy to talk through the report and other matters with you. We are also able to recommend reputable trades, if needed.

As long as you notify us before the day of the survey we will give you a full refund. See our full Cancellation Policy and terms.

If you have a complaint, please contact our Head Office:
Marshalls Chartered Surveyors,
Rochester House,
The Grange Farm,
Eynsham Road,
Oxford,
OX2 9NH.

You can also read a copy of our formal complaints procedure.

Our terms and conditions  vary according to the survey type. These terms outline the inspection we will undertake and they should read carefully. 


Please call or email one of our offices .