Surveying in Kirkwall (1)

A surveyor is a trained professional who inspects land and property. If you’re buying a house in Kirkwall, a surveyor can highlight risks, defects, or legal issues before you commit.

Types of house surveys include:

• Level 1: Condition report – overview of visible defects.
• Level 2: Homebuyer report – more detailed, including checks for damp and subsidence.
• Level 3: Building survey – the most thorough inspection, with a detailed written report.

How long will they take? Around 1–4 hours for Level 1 or 2, and 3–8 hours for a full structural survey.

Different surveyors specialise in different areas:

• Building surveyors – inspect property condition and advise on repairs
• Chartered surveyors – RICS-accredited professionals covering valuations, structural surveys, and more
• Land surveyors – map land, boundaries, and development plots
• Party wall surveyors – handle disputes between neighbours under the Party Wall Act
• Quantity surveyors – manage construction costs and contracts

Yes. Hiring a surveyor in Kirkwall can save you money and stress. A survey can uncover hidden defects such as damp, structural issues, or electrical problems.

Benefits of hiring a surveyor:

• Spot hidden problems before buying
• Get cost estimates for repairs
• Use the survey report to renegotiate property price

They sound similar, but they’re not the same:

• Building survey – Done by an RICS building surveyor, covering all visible areas of the property
• Structural survey – Typically carried out by a structural engineer, focusing on the building’s structural integrity

Learn more in our guide on house surveys explained.

Party wall surveyor costs in Kirkwall can range from £90 to £450 per hour, depending on the complexity of the dispute and the number of surveyors involved.

Learn more about pricing in our guide to party wall surveyor costs.

When choosing a local surveyor, look for:

• RICS accreditation
• Experience with your type of property
• Clear, transparent pricing

It’s best to get at least three quotes. Use our request a quote tool to get quick, competitive prices from surveyors in Kirkwall.