Is a Survey Necessary for Buying a Flat?

Why You Still Need a Survey When Buying a Flat — Especially a Period Property

If you're purchasing a flat, particularly in a converted period building, you might be tempted to skip a property survey—especially if the flat appears modernised or has recently undergone refurbishment. But skipping a survey can be a costly mistake, particularly in a period flat that has undergone refurbishment where it is highly possible inappropriate modern materials may have been used that are not compatible with the original construction.

While it's true that flats can sometimes seem less complex than houses—after all, you don’t own the whole building—there are still numerous risks that a survey can uncover, particularly in older or characterful properties. Here's why commissioning a survey is a smart investment:

1. Hidden Issues Aren’t Always Obvious

Many flats, especially in older buildings, can conceal problems behind decorative finishes. Fresh paint and stylish interiors can mask long-standing damp issues, deteriorating plasterwork, or signs of structural movement. A survey will assess the condition of the flat beyond the surface level, identifying any underlying concerns that could affect your enjoyment of the property—or lead to costly repairs down the line.

2. Period Conversions Often Involve Complex Structures

Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian buildings were not designed to be split into multiple flats. Retrospective conversions can create issues with soundproofing, fire compartmentation, and ventilation. A professional survey can highlight whether the flat complies with current standards and assess whether any structural alterations may have compromised the building’s integrity.

3. Common Parts, Shared Liability

When you buy a flat, you also take on shared responsibility for the maintenance of the building’s communal areas—such as the roof, external walls, drainage systems, and foundations. Surveys will help to identify any signs of deterioration or neglect to common and shared areas, helping you understand your future liabilities as part of the service charge or under the terms of the lease. It will also allow you to provide information to the building owner / manager about any defects to the external and communal parts which may impact the flat internally.

4. Damp and Timber Issues Are Common in Older Properties

Historic buildings often have solid wall construction and may be finished internally with hard, modern plasters that trap moisture. This can lead to problems such as rising damp or condensation, particularly in basement flats or properties that have been poorly altered over time. A surveyor can identify inappropriate materials or treatments and recommend more sympathetic, long-term solutions.

5. Legal and Leasehold Red Flags

While not a legal document, a building survey will often flag up issues that may require legal clarification—such as alterations that lack local authority approval, breaches of lease terms, or visible signs that suggest issues with management and maintenance of the block. This gives your solicitor the chance to follow up and ensure you don’t inherit unexpected legal or financial problems.

6. Peace of Mind for Long-Term Ownership

A property is likely the most significant investment you’ll ever make. A survey is not just about spotting defects—it's about understanding the condition of what you're buying and being able to plan ahead. Even if no major issues are found, a good survey will provide maintenance advice and highlight areas that might require attention in the coming years.

7. Tailored Advice for Your Property Type

An RICS surveyor will tailor their inspection and report to your specific flat and building type. A modern purpose-built flat carries different risks to a flat in a 19th-century townhouse conversion. For period properties, surveyors with experience in traditional construction methods are invaluable, as they can identify historically inappropriate repairs or suggest conservation-minded improvements.

Final Thoughts - Flat Surveys

It’s easy to underestimate the importance of a survey when buying a flat—especially if the flat looks well-kept or has been recently refurbished. But looks can be deceiving, and the costs of overlooking structural, damp, or legal issues can far outweigh the cost of a professional inspection.

Whether you're buying a modern purpose-built flat or a converted flat in a Listed Building, a comprehensive survey gives you the information you need to buy with confidence—and avoid nasty surprises after completion.

Need a professional survey?

At South East Surveyors, we specialise in surveying all property types, including period flats, across Brighton, Hove and the wider Sussex area. Contact us today to discuss your property and choose the right survey for your needs.

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