This depends on the size and condition of the property being inspected.
In ordinary circumstances, a small property in excellent condition will take much less time to inspect than a larger property in a worse condition.
For example, we might only need to be on site for 45 minutes to an hour if we are inspecting a well-cared for, 15 year old, one bedroom flat in a purpose built block.
In contrast, a well-worn, 1930s, three bedroom semi-detached house could take around 90 minutes to two hours to inspect. And, a much larger property, even one in good condition, could take up to three hours for a full site inspection.
These estimates are based on our own recent experience of Harrison Clarke’s surveyors conducting surveys. Some surveyors can take significantly longer on site than others, so it is always best to ask the surveyor completing your inspection how long they expect your inspection to take.
Sometimes, when we arrive to inspect a property, and explain that we may need two hours to do a thorough job, the resident will say, “But my estate agent told me it would only take 30 minutes!”
It may be that the estate agent has not appreciated how much work goes into inspecting your property, or they may have mistaken a Level 2 Survey for a mortgage valuation, which takes less time.
Even if the resident hadn’t allowed for a longer amount of time, we generally make it work and rarely have to reschedule. It helps that it is usually mutually beneficial to get the survey done as quickly as possible.
As a vendor, you have the right to know who is coming into your property. So, if you have any questions about the inspection process, ask your estate agent for the surveyor’s details and contact them directly, before the inspection. That way, you can be fully briefed and fully prepared.