Explaining the role of chartered surveyors: Similarities and differences in Spain vs. the UK
We act 100% for our clients, inspecting the building, which is what the big money is being spent on, and give a full Report. The lawyers can give 100% correct paperwork, and the insurers, Fx and all the others can act correctly, but it’s the building that’s being bought and lived in, so it’s vital that it is inspected so the buyer knows what they are taking on. “What we see is what you get” – we don’t hide anything. The buyer is paying us and is our client, while the estate agent is paid by the seller, with nothing if the deal doesn’t go ahead, so there is always pressure on them to get the deal done, no matter what.
Why choose Survey Spain? Our network of RICS members, architects and project managers offers unparalleled reassurance
Survey Spain is regulated by RICS, with regard to ethics, conflict of interest and professional performance. I’ve been a member for 50 years and I’m not going to throw away that reputation by some dodgy dealings. We are trained to inspect property and all the surveyor in the Survey Spain Network have many years of experience working here. We have been the wide-eyed innocents, first coming to the country a long time ago, so we can empathise with our clients.
Common issues in Spanish properties: A detailed insight from our surveys
There are more general damp problems here than in the UK, as the design and some outdated building techniques are good for the 5 months of dry and heat, and no good for the remaining 7 months when there can be periods of cold and rain. Beachfront and golf fronting properties have their own problems. Differences in sizes between the Title, Estate Agent, Catastral and our measurements, are common, largely due to undeclared alterations.
Explain how a survey can help a buyer negotiate on price? Does this happen often?
Yes, many times. Armed with a list of defects that we’ve found, it’s possible for the buyer to save many times our fee by negotiating a reduction in the purchase price as compensation for the essential repair costs. The survey is an investment for that reason and also for peace of mind.
Will you advise clients on how to rectify any issues you find?
Our report is based on ECC – Evidence, Cause, Cure. We identify the fault, investigate the probable cause, and advise on ways to correct that. Sometimes the cause isn’t clear, so we’ll advise on the detailed investigations that will be required to identify it clearly and what may be required depending upon the findings.
