Homebuyer and building surveys in Reading
Reading has one of the widest mixes of housing in Berkshire, from Victorian terraces near the town centre to large new developments on the edge of town. We carry out surveys across Reading, Caversham, Tilehurst, Earley and Woodley.
Tell us about the property when you call and we will recommend the survey that fits, so you pay for the detail you need.
Victorian terraces in Redlands and Katesgrove
Streets in Redlands, Katesgrove and Newtown are lined with brick terraces built in the late 1800s. Common findings include rising or penetrating damp, tired roof coverings, and rear additions and loft conversions built to different standards from the main house. We check each of these and explain which matter now and which can wait.
Caversham and the north bank
Caversham sits on the north bank of the Thames and climbs towards Caversham Heights. Homes on the slopes can have retaining walls and steps that need attention, while those near the river may carry flood risk. We note both in the report.
New build homes at Green Park and Kennet Island
Reading has seen a lot of new housing, including Green Park Village and Kennet Island in the south of the town. If you are buying new, a snagging survey lists the defects the builder should put right, from poor sealing around baths to doors that do not close properly.
1930s and post war houses in Tilehurst and Earley
Tilehurst, Earley and Woodley have many 1930s and post war houses, often extended. For these we focus on the condition of the roof, the quality of any extension, signs of movement and the state of the drains where we can see them.
Larger homes in Caversham Heights and Emmer Green
North of the river, Caversham Heights and Emmer Green have larger detached houses from the 1920s onwards, many with big gardens and mature trees. On homes like these a Level 3 building survey gives a fuller picture of the roof, the walls and any movement linked to nearby trees.
Buying to let in Reading
With the university and a large working population, Reading has plenty of rented homes. If you are buying to let, the report helps you plan repairs and set a budget before your first tenants move in.
Roof photos by drone
Where a roof cannot be seen clearly from the ground, we can use a drone to photograph it. This is useful on tall terraces whose rear roofs are hidden from the street.
Surveys we carry out in Reading
Other areas we cover
We also cover Maidenhead and Windsor to the east of Reading, or you can see all the areas we cover.