Architect or building surveyor for home renovation?

Hello everyone :)

I am completely new here. First, a brief overview of the situation. Maybe you can help me a bit.

We will be able to move into my grandma’s house at the end of the year. Since it was built in 1975, of course some things need to be renewed. Now to my question: Who should I contact to have a house inspection and be told what all should/must be renewed? There is, for example, an underfloor heating system, which is of course already 40 years old. Should something like that be replaced? What about insulation, cables, wiring?

In this case, is it better to turn to an architect or a building surveyor?

Many thanks in advance and best regards
Isa

Hello Isa,

Is it better in this case to turn to an architect or a building surveyor?

Even if I get stoned for it right away – I would always recommend a surveyor over an architect. The classic architect is usually a planner and knows his way around room layouts excellently – if he is good. He also, mostly before anyone else, knows about new gimmicks. But when it comes to evaluating existing properties, he is – from my subjective point of view – hopelessly overwhelmed if reliable statements are to be made.

There are plenty of surveyors. In different fields of expertise. Don’t forget that the term surveyor is not protected; after 18 years in this job I am also a surveyor. In this respect, search via good old Google for the Federal Association of Independent and Freelance Surveyors and, based on their qualifications and further training, choose the best surveyor in your region for your concern. The surveyors gathered there minimize the risk that you end up with a wannabe surveyor.

With the surveyor of your choice, you inspect the single-family house – of course it costs money and takes a good 2 hours – and shortly after you receive a so-called appraisal report. With it, you know exactly in which condition grandma’s house is and what investments must be made at what costs.

Addendum and nice side effect: it is easier to finance with the appraisal report.

Rhenish greetings