RPSA Buy to Let Survey
For rental properties, the RPSA Buy to Let Survey is an invaluable tool to safeguard your investment. This in-depth survey goes beyond a standard inspection, delving into the structural integrity and identifying any issues that could lead to costly repairs.
The RPSA Buy To Let Survey Includes:



Understanding the Importance of a Buy to Let Survey
What is a Buy to Let Survey?
Our Buy to Let Surveys provide landlords and investors with an in-depth understanding of the property they plan to purchase, renovate or improve for tenants or to sell. These surveys are essential for identifying potential issues that could affect tenant satisfaction and long-term investment returns.
Consideration of health and safety matters that are likely to have an impact on tenants occupying the property – the survey considers all 29 hazard profiles identified in the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS), but does not include a full assessment of hazard scores as defined by HHSR.
With over 30 years of experience, Langley-Whittingham Building Surveyors offer expert and meticulous service tailored to the unique needs of buy-to-let properties. Our team is dedicated to providing professional, personalised, and reliable advice to ensure your investment is sound.

Our team at Langley-Whittingham Building Surveyors brings a level of expertise and meticulousness that only comes from over 30 years in the field. We take pride in offering professional, personal, and dependable service to each of our clients.
Why a Buy to Let Survey is Essential
Ensuring Informed Investment Decisions
A Buy to Let Survey offers a detailed evaluation of the property’s condition, helping you make well-informed investment decisions. By understanding potential repair costs and issues, you can better negotiate purchase terms and plan for future maintenance.
Investing in a comprehensive survey can save you from unexpected repair costs and tenant dissatisfaction. Our detailed reports provide the necessary information to address problems early, ensuring your property remains a valuable and attractive rental.

Cost of Buy to Let Surveys
The cost of a Buy to Let Survey varies based on the property’s size and complexity. While larger and older properties may require more extensive inspections, the investment in a thorough survey is crucial for securing a profitable rental property. A Buy to Let Survey includes a detailed assessment of the property’s structural integrity and associated services. It also covers external and internal elements, potential alterations, and legal issues that might impact the property’s rental potential. To prepare for a Buy to Let Survey, ensure that the surveyor has unrestricted access to all areas of the property. Clear any clutter that might obstruct the inspection and provide relevant documents or information about the property.
How Surveys Impact Mortgage Valuation
When applying for a mortgage, it’s crucial for your lender to ensure that the property they’re financing is a sound investment. This is where a Building Survey becomes indispensable.Mortgage lenders often require a house survey before loan approval. This survey helps confirm that the property is worth the investment from the lender’s viewpoint. Any major issues discovered during the survey can affect the terms of your mortgage or even the approval itself.
At Langley-Whittingham, our Building Surveys are exceptionally thorough. This meticulous approach ensures both the buyer and the lender are fully informed, easing the financial aspects of purchasing a property.

Local knowledge & National Expertise
Local knowledge
& National Expertise

What Does a Buy to Let Survey Cover?
Comprehensive Coverage of Key Areas
A Buy to Let Survey includes a detailed assessment of the property’s structural integrity and associated services. It also covers external and internal elements, potential alterations, and legal issues that might impact the property’s rental potential.
The thoroughness of a Buy to Let Survey provides peace of mind by uncovering potential issues early. This detailed information helps you address problems before they escalate, ensuring your rental property remains a valuable asset.
In-Depth Buy to Let Survey
The Buy to Let Survey is crucial for investors, offering a thorough inspection that covers structural, legal, and safety aspects of the property. This comprehensive survey helps identify issues that could result in costly repairs, ensuring your investment is well-protected.
Features of the Buy to Let Survey:
- Detailed inspection of the external roof, gutters, chimney, and upper walls
- Assessment of structural movement and subsidence
- Thorough check of internal roofing and associated services like heating, electrics, and boilers
- Evaluation of drainage systems, including mains, septic tanks, and cesspits
- Condition check of windows and doors
- Review of any building alterations, such as extensions or layout changes
- Ventilation assessment
- Inspection for dampness, timber decay, and woodworm infestation
“Catherine from Langley-Whittingham was exceptional! Her detailed survey saved us from a costly investment. Highly recommend their services!”
“We were thoroughly impressed with Catherine’s professionalism and expertise. Langley-Whittingham provided a comprehensive report that gave us peace of mind. Fantastic job!”
How to Choose the Level of Survey you Need
Buy to Let Surveys and other House Surveys
RPSA Homebuyer Reports are mid-level surveys ideal for standard properties. These reports offer a comprehensive look at the condition without going into extensive detail. They are perfect for newer or well-maintained properties that don’t require an exhaustive check.
RPSA Building Surveys, on the other hand, offer an in-depth assessment suitable for older or non-standard homes. These types of house survey delve into every nook and cranny, identifying potential issues that may not be covered in a Homebuyer Report. They offer more detailed condition report and, naturally, more costly, but the level of insight they provide is invaluable for older or more structurally complex properties.


Which Survey is Suitable for Your Property?
Different properties require specific types of surveys. Residential surveying of older or more intricate properties might benefit from a full Building Survey, which offers a more comprehensive examination. Conversely, newer homes typically only need a standard survey, which covers major areas without going too deep.
Professional guidance is essential in this process. Surveyors can help you navigate the options, ensuring you choose the survey that best meets your needs. At Langley-Whittingham, we adhere to the guidelines of the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA), providing you with the most appropriate and professional advice available.
Buy To Let Survey – FAQs
A Buy-to-Let survey is a detailed inspection of a property intended for rental purposes, focusing on structural integrity, safety, and potential issues that could affect tenants.
A Buy-to-Let survey helps landlords and investors identify potential problems and repair costs, ensuring the property is safe and suitable for tenants, and protecting your investment.
The survey includes an assessment of the property’s structural condition, internal and external elements, safety features, and compliance with rental regulations, along with an evaluation of potential repair costs.
This survey provides a comprehensive understanding of the property’s condition, allowing you to make informed decisions, plan for necessary repairs, ensure tenant safety, and avoid unexpected expenses.
“Catherine from Langley-Whittingham was exceptional! Her detailed survey saved us from a costly investment. Highly recommend their services!”
“We were thoroughly impressed with Catherine’s professionalism and expertise. Langley-Whittingham provided a comprehensive report that gave us peace of mind. Fantastic job!”


