The roles of house surveyors and estate agents may differ, but their shared goal is the same: helping buyers and sellers move confidently through the property process. While some agents may feel cautious about surveys uncovering issues that could affect a sale, the reality is that collaboration between both parties creates transparency, trust, and smoother transactions for everyone involved.
Estate agents are the first point of contact for buyers and sellers, responsible for marketing the property, arranging viewings, negotiating offers, and guiding the transaction through to completion.
Surveyors provide an impartial, evidence-based assessment of a property’s condition and value. Their reports help buyers make informed decisions while giving sellers clarity on any issues that may require attention.
When surveyors and agents work together as partners—not obstacles—the result is clear: faster transactions, better-informed clients, and fewer surprises. The following case study from Shropshire demonstrates how this collaborative approach benefits all parties.
Success story: A smooth survey in Shropshire
We were instructed to carry out a house survey on a property in Shropshire—an area known for its rich agricultural heritage, rugged landscapes, historic market towns, castles, and deep cultural history as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.
This region’s properties reflect its charm: from Elizabethan farmhouses and Grade II listed Georgian country homes to modern developments. Many are timber-framed or constructed from traditional stone, retaining historic features—especially in picturesque towns like Ludlow and Shrewsbury, with their Tudor-era buildings.
Property background
The property surveyed was a substantial mid- to late-19th-century detached home, part two-storey and part three-storey, situated in a peaceful village near Ludlow. Set within larger-than-average grounds, the property had the character and age that make Shropshire homes so appealing—and so in need of careful inspection.
Our instruction
We were commissioned to undertake a full house survey to give the purchaser a clear understanding of the property’s condition and to support them in making a reasoned and informed decision on whether to proceed.
Given the age of the house, we recommended a Level 3 Bespoke Survey, ideal for properties over 100 years old.
Jonathan Mountford, Director at The House Surveyors, carried out a comprehensive inspection, supported by detailed photographic and video evidence.
The report identified key areas of disrepair and highlighted areas requiring further investigation or specialist advice.
Key observations
Further investigations were recommended to determine the full cause and extent of several defects:
- Timber defects
- Dampness
- Potential asbestos
- Electrical concerns
- Plumbing issues
- Hot water and heating system checks
- Drainage condition
Additional maintenance recommendations included:
- Replacing missing or broken roof tiles
- Redecoration and adjustment of timber windows and doors
- Replacing cement pointing with lime-based mortar (more appropriate for older properties)
Additional guidance and support
Our report concluded that the property remained a reasonable purchase, provided the buyer was prepared for the cost and inconvenience of dealing with the identified issues—many of which are common in properties of this age and type.
We also provided:
- Recommended timescales for essential and preventative maintenance
- Ongoing care advice
- A list of recommended professionals to carry out specialist investigations and remedial works
Outcome
The vendor reviewed our findings and worked with the estate agent and current owner to address concerns and complete works prior to sale agreement. One of the observations was to investigate the damp issue found in the rear of the chimney which had cased damage to the plaster in the top bedroom. We advised it would be a hole in the lead gutter, which it was. This was repaired and the damp affected plaster removed. The area allowed to dry out and then replastered. By working together with clear communication, all parties were able to proceed and successfully exchange contracts.
What our team says
Jonathan Mountford, GJS Dillon – The House Surveyors comments:
“Our aim is to enable clients to make an informed decision before committing to a purchase. When someone instructs a house survey, it’s because they are genuinely interested in the property—we want to help them reach that decision with confidence. Sometimes a house is in excellent condition; sometimes issues arise. When they do, collaboration with estate agents is essential.
We work together to keep the transaction moving, reduce last-minute complications, resolve queries quickly, and help the agent achieve a fair price for their client. We go above and beyond to offer the advice and support clients need to secure their dream home with confidence.”
What the Estate agent says
Mark Wiggin, of Mark Wiggins Estate Agents, Ludlow, adds:
“We often recommend GJS Dillon – The House Surveyors to our buyers because they take a fair, logical, and professional approach. Surveyors are instructed to find problems—but they don’t escalate them unnecessarily. Too many surveyors run for the hills instead of offering practical solutions. After all, our clients want to buy the home they’ve offered on.
In this case, we encountered some damp issues, and GJS Dillon worked through the problem with us, went the extra mile, and reassured the buyer that the proposed solution was sound. It was a refreshing experience. Communication is everything—and they understand that better than most.”
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