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Stepped Cracks in Brickwork and Helical Bar Repairs: Why a Proper Survey Matters Stepped cracking in brickwork is one of the more common defects I come across when carrying out RICS Level 2 Surveys across Leicester and Leicestershire. These cracks usually follow the horizontal and vertical mortar joints, creating a “stair-step” pattern through the brickwork. Sometimes, stepped cracking may be historic or relatively minor. In other cases, it can indicate more significant issue

Most people associate property valuations with buying or selling a home. But in reality, there are many important life situations where a formal, RICS compliant valuation report is essential — and where an estate agent's informal estimate simply won't do. At Ravi Seth Chartered Surveyors, we provide formal RICS Red Book valuation reports for: ⚖️ Divorce proceedings — a court-accepted, independent valuation of the matrimonial home or investment properties for fair asset di

Property valuation is not just about square footage and comparables. Local knowledge matters. Street-by-street differences, buyer demand, neighbourhood reputation, nearby development, and market behaviour can all influence value. Having personally sold close to 1,000 homes, and sold and let hundreds of commercial properties across Leicester, Ravi Seth brings a depth of local insight that goes beyond standard market data. A valuation is only as good as the knowledge behind it.

A survey may cost hundreds. Missing a serious defect can cost thousands. In over 25 years of surveying Leicester properties, I've seen things that no quick mortgage valuation would ever catch. Here are five of the most common — and most costly — issues our in-depth surveys identify: 🔴 1. Roof structural failure Often invisible from the street. Our drone survey has identified sagging rafters, rotten purlins, and widespread felt deterioration on properties described as

Auction properties can represent fantastic value. They can also represent the most expensive mistake of your life. Here's the reality that not enough bidders understand: When the hammer falls at auction, the sale is legally binding. You have exchanged contracts. You must complete — usually within 28 days. If you discover structural problems, subsidence, severe damp, roof failure, or any other major defect after that point — it is your problem. There is no going back.

As the football world turns its attention to the biggest tournament on the planet, Ravi Seth Chartered Surveyors would like to wish all the teams, players, and supporters the very best for an exciting and memorable World Cup. The World Cup is a celebration of passion, teamwork, preparation, and determination. It brings together nations from across the globe and reminds us of the value of hard work, experience, and performing when it matters most. While we won't be stepping on

When you're buying a house, the roof is often one of the last things you think about. It shouldn't be. Roof repairs are among the most expensive issues a homeowner can face. A full re-roof on an average Leicester semi-detached property can cost £8,000 to £15,000 or more, while significant structural roof repairs can run substantially higher. The challenge is that you simply cannot properly assess a roof from street level. Even experienced surveyors are often restricted by wha

A common misconception among buyers is that a mortgage valuation is the same as a survey. It is not. A mortgage valuation is primarily carried out for the lender. In many cases, the inspection can take as little as 15–20 minutes. Our in-depth Level 2 Survey inspections typically take 60–90 minutes. That additional time allows us to properly assess: • Structural movement • Damp issues • Roof condition • Defects that may not be immediately obvious When buying property, the risk

Looking for a reliable tenant find service in Leicester? Opuluxe Lettings offers professional tenant sourcing, referencing, compliance checks and tenancy agreements from just £399.

The new Renters’ Rights Act is here—and non-compliance could cost you Up to £40,000 per tenancy. If you self-manage your properties, now is the time to act. We offer a simple, fast document review service to ensure your tenancy agreements and landlord paperwork meet the latest legal requirements—giving you peace of mind and protecting your income. Tenancy agreement checks Compliance review Clear, practical recommendations Don’t risk costly penalties. Get your documents che

Help to Buy valuations are frequently rejected due to technical errors. Learn why valuations are challenged and how to avoid costly delays.

Why Most Commercial Rent Reviews Underperform Why Most Commercial Rent Reviews Underperform A commercial rent review is rarely won at the negotiation table, in reality, it is won months earlier through preparation, evidence and technical accuracy . Yet many commercial landlords are surprised when rent reviews underperform, settle below market levels or drift into long and costly disputes. The reason is not market conditions alone, it is usually the way the rent review has bee

Introduction: Why Help to Buy Valuations Are Essential The UK’s Help to Buy scheme has supported thousands of people in buying their first home. But when it comes time to repay the government equity loan, staircase, remortgage, or sell the property , homeowners must obtain a RICS Help to Buy valuation survey . This independent valuation determines how much is owed back to the scheme administrator and ensures the transaction is handled fairly. Without it, sales and repayments

Introduction: Commercial Property is Profitable, If Managed Right Commercial property remains one of the most rewarding forms of investment. With longer leases, higher rents, and stable tenants compared to residential, it’s no surprise that many landlords are diversifying into offices, retail units, and industrial spaces. But the reality is this: the difference between success and struggle often comes down to avoiding common mistakes . Poorly structured leases, weak tenant ve

Introduction: Commercial Lettings Are Different Letting a commercial property is not the same as letting a house or flat. Lease terms are longer, negotiations are more technical, and the financial implications A Landlord’s Guide to Commercial Property Lettingsare much higher. Whether you’re marketing a retail unit, industrial warehouse, or office suite , success depends on tenant quality, lease structure, and compliance clarity . Done well, a commercial letting secures stable

Introduction: Compliance Is Not Optional Commercial property management is more than collecting rent and arranging maintenance. It carries serious legal obligations for landlords. From energy efficiency standards to fire safety, compliance failures can trigger heavy fines, disputes, insurance invalidation, and reputational damage. Yet compliance doesn’t just protect against penalties, it preserves tenant confidence and strengthens asset value . In today’s market, buyers and

Introduction: HMOs – Opportunity with Oversight Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have become one of the most popular investment strategies for landlords in the UK. The appeal is clear: by letting a single property to multiple tenants, landlords can achieve significantly higher yields than from a standard single-let. But with opportunity comes responsibility. HMOs are heavily regulated, require licences in many cases, and bring higher tenant turnover. Without the right pr

Introduction: Why Rent Reviews Matter in Commercial Property Commercial property investment is all about maximising returns while...

Discover why RICS property surveys are vital for commercial investments in the UK. Learn how surveys protect landlords, investors, and lenders from costly risks.