When you’re buying or selling a property, choosing the right surveyor makes all the difference. These days, it’s easy to be tempted by big national firms that advertise across the UK. But when it comes to something as important as your home, working with a local RICS surveyor often gives you a real advantage. 

Here’s why choosing a local surveying team in the Northeast – like Fife & Kimmitt Surveyors can save you time, money, and stress.

Local Knowledge You Can Rely On

Properties in Houghton le Spring, Sunderland, Durham, and across Tyne & Wear and County Durham have their own quirks. From old mining land and high rainfall to stone cottages and Victorian terraces, our housing stock is far from “one size fits all.” 

• A local surveyor knows what to look for. For example: 
• Signs of movement linked to historic mining. 
• Damp problems in solid wall properties. 
• Roofing issues (common to North East terraces)

National firms may miss these local red flags, but a surveyor who works here every day won’t.

Faster Appointments and Reports

Big chains often book you into a queue, with surveys taking weeks to arrange. Local surveyors can usually offer quicker appointments and get your report back to you faster. 

At Fife & Kimmitt, we know speed matters. Many of our clients get their reports within just a few days, not weeks. 

Personal Service and Aftercare

With a local surveyor, you’re not just a reference number. You’ll speak directly to the person who inspected your property, and you can ask questions without being passed around a call centre. 

We take time to: 

• Talk through your report. 
• Explain issues in plain language. 
• Help you understand your next steps. 

That kind of support is priceless if you’re a first-time buyer or dealing with an unfamiliar problem. 

Local Reputation and Trust 

National survey firms may never step foot in the North East outside of your appointment. A local surveyor, on the other hand, is part of your community. 

At Fife & Kimmitt, our reputation matters. We work with buyers, sellers, and homeowners across Houghton le Spring, Durham, Sunderland, and nearby villages and word of mouth is a big part of our business. You can be confident we’ll give you honest advice, because we’re here for the long run, not just one job. 

Competitive, Transparent Pricing 

Large firms often add on hidden costs or standardised fees that don’t reflect the local market. A local surveyor can usually offer fair, competitive prices that suit the area, with clear, upfront quotes. 

Plus, because we know the housing market here, we can make sure your survey or valuation lines up with realistic local property values. 

Ready to Work with a Local Surveyor? 

Choosing a surveyor isn’t just about ticking a box for your mortgage; it’s about making a smart decision for your future. 

With Fife & Kimmitt Surveyors, you’ll get: 

• RICS-certified standards. 
• Honest, local expertise. 
• Clear, practical advice you can trust. 

Get in touch today to book your RICS property survey in Houghton le Spring, Sunderland, Durham, or anywhere across the North East. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a good local surveyor?

Look for an RICS accredited surveyor in your area. RICS registration means they meet strict professional standards. Beyond that, check reviews, ask for recommendations, and see if they have experience with properties like the one you’re buying.

How do I know if a surveyor is RICS registered?

You can search the official RICS website directory to confirm if a surveyor is registered. A genuine RICS surveyor will also display their membership number and credentials. At Fife & Kimmitt, all our surveyors are fully RICS certified.

Why choose a local surveyor instead of a national one?

Local surveyors bring regional knowledge. For example, in the North East, issues like mining subsidence, damp in solid wall properties, or older terraced housing are common. A national firm might overlook these risks, but a local surveyor won’t.

Does a surveyor need to be RICS registered?

If you want an official Home Survey (Level 1, 2, or 3) or a valuation that lenders will accept, then yes, your surveyor should be RICS accredited. This guarantees professional standards and gives you a clear route for support if you ever need to raise a concern.

Should I use a surveyor recommended by my estate agent?

You can, but be cautious. Sometimes agents suggest surveyors they work with regularly, which may not always be the most independent choice. Many buyers prefer to choose their own local RICS surveyor to ensure completely unbiased advice.

What makes a good local surveyor?

A good surveyor will be:

• RICS certified
• Experienced in local housing types
• Transparent about pricing
• Willing to explain reports in plain English
• Available for follow-up questions

At Fife & Kimmitt, these are exactly the standards we work by.