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SURVEYOR IN TORQUAY

 

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Torquay Surveying Services: Homebuyer Reports, Building Surveys and Valuations

Thinking of Buying a Property in Torquay?

Torquay offers a fantastic variety of homes, from elegant Victorian terraces and stylish apartments with sea views to countryside retreats. Whether you’re looking to settle in the town centre, enjoy the coastal lifestyle by the marina or find peace in a quiet corner near Cockington, it’s essential to understand exactly what you’re investing in. A comprehensive home survey from Camsure Home Surveys ensures you make that decision with confidence.

RICS Homebuyer Reports in Torquay

Our Homebuyer Reports are perfect for modern or conventional homes. They provide a clear and concise overview of the property’s condition, identifying any urgent repairs or potential risks, like damp or structural issues. This way, you can enter negotiations armed with the facts.

Building Surveys in Torquay

For older properties or unique homes, a more detailed Building Survey may be required. This extensive report covers everything from the building’s structure to its fabric, ensuring no stone is left unturned. If you’re planning renovations or buying a period property, this survey is invaluable in preventing costly surprises down the line.

RICS Valuations in Torquay

Need a valuation you can trust? Our RICS-accredited team provides accurate, independent valuations for mortgages, probate or tax purposes, helping you make informed financial decisions. With years of local market knowledge, we’ll ensure you know exactly what your property is worth.

If you’re not sure which survey is right for you, we can help. Our useful articles explain the benefits of each survey type, making it easier to choose what’s best for you. Whether you’re looking at a modern home near Meadfoot or a traditional property around Babbacombe, we’re here to give you the information you need to decide with confidence.

At Camsure, we are proud to be recognised as the UK’s Best Surveyor for 2024 by Compare My Move. Our focus on clear communication, expertise and excellent service sets us apart. Plus, with glowing reviews on Trustpilot, you can trust that your home purchase is in safe hands with us.

We’re also proud to be featured on leading AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini, where our services are highly rated by users. This recognition highlights our commitment to delivering reliable, RICS-accredited surveys that clients trust and recommend.

Additional services include Housing Disrepair Claims and Insurance Reinstatement Valuations.

Contact your local Torquay surveyor

Trusted RICS Surveyors in Torquay: Your Local Property Experts

Camsure is here to assist you as you navigate the property market in Torquay. With our team of RICS surveyors, you can rest assured that your property is in capable hands. We bring a wealth of experience, enabling us to provide assessments that are not just detailed but also relevant to the local landscape.

When you opt for a RICS-accredited surveyor, you’re choosing professionalism and a commitment to transparency. Our surveyors are trained to look for potential issues that could affect your investment, ensuring you are well-informed before making a decision.

Beyond property condition, we also consider the surrounding environment. Knowledge of local amenities is crucial when making a purchase and we provide valuable insights that can affect your long-term satisfaction with your new home.

Get in touch for a free consultation to learn how our expert surveyors can support you in your property buying journey.

Building Trust and Expertise: Free Consultations

Take the first step towards a sound property investment by scheduling a free consultation with our team. We’ll discuss your specific questions and concerns, providing you with expert guidance to navigate the Torquay property market.

Don’t just take our word for it—see what our satisfied clients have to say about their Camsure experience on Trustpilot.

Partnering with Camsure means you’re making a wise investment in your future home in Torquay. We also offer additional services such as Housing Disrepair Claims and Insurance Reinstatement Valuations.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay for a Home Survey in Torquay?

In Torquay, home surveys typically cost between £420 and £1,550.

What Influences Survey Costs?

-Property Size: Larger properties require more extensive evaluations.
-Condition: Older homes may show signs of wear that require closer inspection.
-Type of Survey: The kind of survey selected will affect the pricing structure.

Have questions? Contact us today to discuss your Torquay property and explore the best survey options available.

If you need any further assistance, feel free to contact us. Our team is always here to assist you.

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Camsure's Torquay Surveyors

Kai Jones

Kai began his surveying career at the age of 18 and has built extensive experience across the profession. His work includes valuation and appraisal of residential and commercial properties, land and building measurement, and carrying out RICS Level 2 and Level 3 surveys.

Clients value Kai’s clear reporting and practical advice, which highlight potential issues and set out the necessary remedial actions. He always takes time to explain his findings in a straightforward way.

Outside of work, Kai enjoys travelling in his campervan, surfing the South West coast, and playing squash.

“I take great pride on my work and I believe I provide my clients with clear and concise reports, which clearly identify any areas of concern and all remedial actions required. Having said that, home surveys can be daunting documents to clients who may not be familiar with them. I therefore always ensure that I explain any information in an easy to follow format, and clearly answer any questions that a client may have in a simple yet detailed manor.”

— Kai Jones, Residential Surveyor, Camsure Home Surveys, 2025

Devon Case Study: The Importance of a Level 2 Homebuyer Survey with Valuation

Recently, a four-bedroom detached property in Devon was selected for an RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey with Valuation. This survey serves as an essential step for potential homeowners, offering a comprehensive understanding of the property’s condition and its market value.

Why Choose a Level 2 Homebuyer Survey? A Level 2 Homebuyer Survey is designed for conventional properties, highlighting significant issues while providing an overall assessment. This type of survey is particularly beneficial for those looking to purchase an existing home, as it covers key aspects such as:

  • Structural integrity and potential defects
  • Roof condition and any signs of damp
  • Electrical and plumbing systems
  • Valuation to inform purchase decisions

The Role of Valuation: In addition to the condition report, the valuation included in a Level 2 Homebuyer Survey is crucial. It provides the potential buyers with an unbiased assessment of the property’s market value, ensuring that they do not overpay for their new home. Understanding the true value of a property can significantly impact financial decisions, including mortgage applications and future investments.

Conclusion: Investing in a Level 2 Homebuyer Survey with Valuation is a wise decision for prospective homeowners in Devon. It not only uncovers potential issues that may require immediate attention but also offers peace of mind through a clear understanding of the property’s value. With this knowledge, buyers can make informed decisions, negotiate better terms and ultimately feel confident in their new home purchase.

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Homebuyer Survey Report
RICS Level 2

A detailed visual inspection to clearly see the property's condition and any concerns prior to purchase.

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Homebuyer Survey Report with Valuation
RICS Level 2

Confirms market value and provides a rebuild cost for insurance purposes.

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Building Survey
RICS Level 3

The most comprehensive survey, ideal for older properties, those in poor condition or where major works are planned.

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RICS 'Red Book' Valuation

Written market valuation for various purposes including Help To Buy, Shared Ownership and inheritance tax.*

*Valuations and rebuild costs can be added to a Building Survey at request, for an additional fee.

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Choosing the Right Home Survey

Our skilled surveyors provide various survey choices to match your requirements and the kind of property you're considering. Take a look at our thorough descriptions below to discover the ideal survey.

RICS Homebuyers Survey Report

Our qualified RICS surveyor, located in Torquay, is prepared to carry out a detailed Homebuyer Report tailored for properties in good condition constructed after 1930.

Using a simple "traffic light" system, the report highlights the current condition and structural integrity of the property. In addition to the physical evaluation, the report offers useful insights into legal matters. It pinpoints urgent issues needing immediate attention, proposes potential solutions for defects affecting the property's worth and gives advice on future upkeep.

For a modest extra charge, we also offer a market valuation service for your property. This thorough report goes beyond the essentials, considering environmental factors like flood risks, proximity to mining or landfill sites, soil types and the presence of radon gas. Furthermore, it assesses the potential impact of major infrastructure projects, such as the HS2 rail line, on your property's value.

RICS Building Survey

This detailed check goes further than the HomeBuyer Report, giving a deeper look into the condition of the property and offering useful extra guidance.

For a modest extra cost, you can opt for a property valuation assessment, which gives tailored suggestions on dealing with any problems, repairs or upkeep needs.

The aim of this thorough report is to help you make informed choices about the property's condition and get ready for future maintenance work.

Independent Valuation Report

Our impartial assessment looks to determine the market worth of your property and may pinpoint areas requiring further examination.

For Help to Buy applications, our specially qualified RICS-registered surveyor will evaluate your home's value, crucial for working out your financial commitment.

Please be aware that this valuation remains valid for three months.

Useful RICS Downloads

Fantastic detailed report
Fantastic detailed report provided. Phone calls before and after inspection to provide an insight to what is featuring the report. Provides comprehensive list of next steps very useful to a first time buyer like myself.
— Dan, Trustpilot

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on the complexity of your property.

Most RICS surveys are completed in 2-24 hours, with larger or more complex properties potentially requiring longer.

Talk to your chosen surveyor directly to confirm the expected timeframe for both the inspection and the report delivery.

BUYING A HOME:
Get a survey after your offer is accepted: This demonstrates your seriousness and streamlines the process.

SELLING YOUR HOME:
Consider a pre-sale survey: Identify potential issues that could delay or even stall your sale.

CONCERNED ABOUT REPAIRS
Invest in a Level 2 survey: Gain valuable insights and plan for necessary repairs before they escalate.

The responsibility of paying for the survey depends on the location:

England, Wales, & Northern Ireland: Buyer pays. However, sellers can also choose to get one.
Scotland: Seller is required to provide a Home Report for potential buyers to view.

The time between your survey and buying the house varies based on the findings.

If there are no major issues: the process can continue smoothly as planned.

If significant problems are discovered: you might consider:
- Negotiating a lower price with the seller.
- Requesting repairs from the seller before completing the purchase.
- Withdrawing from the sale altogether.

These steps may involve additional inspections from other specialists, which can extend the timeline.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, surveys are optional, but highly recommended. They can give buyers confidence and prevent unforeseen problems later.

In Scotland, getting a survey is a must before you can even list your property.

A Red Book valuation is an official assessment of a property's value that can be trusted by the person who requests it. Unlike a general market appraisal, it's used for more serious matters like tax calculations or legal disputes.

These valuations follow strict rules set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and are done by certified professionals. They're often needed for things like inheritance tax, divorce cases or property disputes.
The process ensures the valuation is thorough and reliable, with the surveyor having the right qualifications and insurance to back up their work. This gives peace of mind to anyone relying on the valuation.

Region snapshot

Best surveyors, Torquay

 

Torquay’s Property Market – A Snapshot

If you’re considering a move to Torquay, it’s important to note that properties in the area had an overall average price of £264,079 over the last year.

The property market in Torquay features a range of options, with flats making up a significant portion of sales. These typically sold for an average price of £180,797. Terraced properties averaged £226,715, while semi-detached homes had an average price of £308,524.

Overall, the sold prices in Torquay have experienced a slight decline of 8% compared to the previous year and are down 2% from the peak prices recorded in 2021. This information can be beneficial for potential buyers looking to navigate the local market.

Property Type Average Price (£) Percentage of Sales
Flats £180,797 Most sales
Terraced £226,715
Semi-detached Properties £308,524

Source: RightMove October 2024

Torquay and Surrounding Areas: New Housing Developments in 2023-2024

New Housing Developments in Torquay

Torquay is experiencing a wave of new housing developments that cater to various needs and lifestyles. From affordable options to luxury homes, the following projects aim to enhance the local community and offer diverse living opportunities.

Gulls Close

Gulls Close is a new development featuring affordable homes designed for rent, including apartments specifically tailored for wheelchair users and individuals aged 55 and over. Developed by Sanctuary, a reputable UK social housing provider, these homes are conveniently located less than a mile from Torquay town centre. This initiative reflects a commitment to providing accessible housing options for the community.

Hotels to Homes Initiative

In an innovative approach to tackling housing shortages, the Hotels to Homes initiative aims to convert old hotels into affordable homes for local households. The Torquay council is collaborating with local developers to repurpose these properties. The first scheme will involve acquiring 14 flats from a local developer, with the first residents expected to move in by autumn 2025. This initiative not only provides essential housing but also revitalises existing structures within the community.

Sladnor Park Development

The Sladnor Park project is transforming a former holiday park in Maidencombe into a vibrant community with approximately 120 market and affordable homes. The developers are focused on creating a welcoming neighbourhood that integrates seamlessly with the natural landscape, ensuring that the charm of the area is preserved while providing new housing options.

Luxury Homes

In addition to affordable housing, Torquay is also attracting interest from an international developer who is constructing luxury homes in the area. These high-end properties are designed to appeal to buyers seeking premium living options in a desirable coastal location, contributing to the diverse housing landscape in Torquay.

Living in the Region

What It’s Like to Live in Torquay: A Comprehensive Guide for Prospective Home Buyers

Geography and Housing

Torquay is situated on the English Riviera in Devon, known for its stunning coastline, rolling hills and a mild climate. The town’s geography has influenced its development, with many homes offering breathtaking views of Tor Bay and the surrounding countryside. Housing options vary widely, including Victorian and Edwardian terraced homes, modern developments and luxury apartments. The coastal setting attracts both families and retirees, making it a popular location for homebuyers.

Unique Attributes of Torquay

Torquay has a rich maritime history, having been a significant port since the Roman era. The town is famous for its sandy beaches, such as Torre Abbey Sands and Meadfoot Beach, which are popular with both residents and tourists. Local landmarks include the historic Torre Abbey, which houses an art gallery and beautiful gardens and the vibrant marina, offering a range of dining and leisure options. The town hosts various events throughout the year, celebrating its cultural heritage and coastal lifestyle.

Neighbourhoods and Amenities

Torquay features several neighbourhoods, each offering unique amenities and lifestyle options. The town centre provides a range of shops, cafes and restaurants, catering to diverse tastes. Local parks, such as Cockington Country Park and Meadfoot Beach, offer green spaces for recreation. The town is well-served by schools, healthcare facilities and community centres, making it suitable for families, professionals and retirees alike.

Architectural Traits and Building Materials

The architectural landscape of Torquay reflects its history and coastal location. Many homes feature traditional materials such as stone, slate and rendered façades, with styles ranging from Victorian villas to modern seaside apartments. The use of large windows is common, allowing for natural light and views of the bay. Homeowners should be aware of the maintenance needs of older properties, particularly in relation to weathering and dampness.

Crime Rate and Safety

Torquay generally has lower than average crime rates for its size. However, there are areas where crime is a concern. In some parts of the town, residents have reported issues such as drug-related activity, homelessness and anti-social behaviour, particularly in the town centre. Potential residents should be mindful of these concerns and consider the safety of specific neighbourhoods. Community initiatives and local policing efforts aim to enhance safety and reduce crime, contributing to a growing sense of security among residents.

Transportation and Connectivity

Torquay is well-connected by road and rail, making it an accessible destination for commuters. The A380 connects the town to the M5 motorway, while the railway station provides services to Exeter and beyond. Public transport options, including buses and taxis, facilitate travel within the town and to surrounding areas. This connectivity is particularly appealing for those who work outside of Torquay or enjoy exploring the wider Devon region.

Education and Family Life

Torquay is home to a range of educational facilities, including primary and secondary schools. Several institutions have received positive Ofsted ratings, making them attractive to families. The town also offers access to further education options, such as South Devon College, which provides vocational and academic courses. Family-friendly amenities, such as parks, playgrounds and community activities, enhance the quality of life for residents.

Cons of Living in Torquay

While Torquay has many attractive features, there are several downsides to consider:

  • Seasonal Tourism: Being a seaside resort, Torquay experiences a significant influx of tourists during the summer months, leading to crowded beaches and busy town centres. This can create noise and congestion, which may be off-putting for residents seeking a quieter lifestyle.
  • Economic Disparities: There is a noticeable wealth gap within the town, with affluent areas juxtaposed against those facing socio-economic challenges. This disparity can lead to issues such as crime and anti-social behaviour in certain neighbourhoods, particularly near the town centre.
  • Employment Opportunities: Job availability can be limited, particularly outside the tourism and hospitality sectors. This may necessitate commuting to nearby towns for those seeking stable employment in other industries.
  • Public Transport: Although the transport network connects Torquay with surrounding areas, public transport options may not be as reliable or frequent as desired, potentially affecting those who rely on it for commuting.
  • Town Centre Decline: Concerns have been raised about the decline of the town centre, with reports of closed shops and increasing anti-social behaviour. This perception may detract from the overall appeal of living in Torquay for some potential residents.

These cons should be carefully weighed against the benefits when considering a move to Torquay, as individual experiences may vary greatly.

Best Places to Live in Torquay

  • Wellswood: Often regarded as one of the best areas in Torquay, Wellswood is known for its proximity to the beach, shops and scenic views. This neighbourhood features a mix of period properties and modern homes, making it appealing for families and professionals.
  • Ilsham: Considered the poshest and most expensive part of Torquay, Ilsham offers upscale housing options and stunning views. The area is quiet and family-friendly, with good access to local amenities and the beach.
  • Cockington: Renowned for its picturesque village and thatched cottages, Cockington offers a quaint atmosphere and is close to Torquay’s amenities. The area is popular with families and retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to nature.
  • Livermead: Livermead is a coastal neighbourhood known for its beachfront properties and family-friendly environment. The area provides a good balance between tranquillity and access to the town centre.
  • Preston: Located between Torquay and Paignton, Preston offers a quieter atmosphere with access to sandy beaches. The neighbourhood has a mix of housing options and amenities, making it suitable for families and retirees.

Contact Camsure Home Surveys Torquay

Buying, renovating or selling a property can be daunting. That’s where we come in. As RICS surveyors in Torquay, we are renowned for our friendly expertise. Let us guide you through your property project, providing peace of mind every step of the way.

Request your free quote today, call our central booking team on 01223 862808. Alternatively, please fill out the form below.
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