RICS Chartered Surveyor in Bristol

Commercial & Residential Building Consultancy covering London & the South West of England

Welcome to Practical Surveying.

Practical Surveying are a Bristol-based, RICS-regulated building surveying practice providing commercial and residential surveying services. We primarily support residential clients in Bristol and surrounding areas, while our commercial surveying work extends across the South West, South Wales, London and further afield where required.

Our surveyors are highly experienced, and we are regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). From level 3 home surveys for first-time buyers in Bristol, to technical due diligence on multi-let commercial assets in London, we deliver advice that is clear, considered and grounded in real-world property experience.

Whatever your project, we take the time to understand your priorities and present our findings in a way you can actually use, without unnecessary jargon and without fear-mongering.

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Katherine Chown 
 7 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The whole team at Practical Surveying in Bristol have been fantastic from start to finish. Tolo conducted a L3 survey for me on a house I am buying and provided a very comprehensive report. Great communication from Tom and Stu,, very professional and competitively priced for the  brilliant service Practical Surveying provide.. I had a really helpful follow up call after my survey report had been issued. I’m sorry I didn’t note the surveyors name, but she was incredibly helpful and able to answer all my questions regarding the survey findings. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a buildings survey in the future.
  
 
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   Olga Moresco 
 25 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely satisfied with the structural survey report I ordered. Great professionalism, very good communication throughout and very easy to understand information. Surveyor was super helpful and happy to discuss findings. I wholeheartedly recommend this company.
  
 
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   Adrian & Monique 
 29 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a Level 3 residential building survey done by Practical Surveying. From my initial enquiry to them, Tom reached out with a great introduction email and explained everything really well. We had amazing service from Tom throughout the whole process, Stuart jumping in when Tom was OOO. The communication was top quality from start to finish, and we were really impressed by the speed and efficiency of everything. The turnaround time was incredibly quick, and the whole experience felt smooth, professional, and well organised. We’re very happy with the report that Tolo had carried out and found everything in the survey easy to understand, it was really well put together! We really appreciate all your help and support, thank you again to Tom, Stuart and Tolo!
  
 
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   Dino Murray 
 21 May 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Practical Surveying completed a level 3 building survey, with an additional drone inspection of the properties roof. I found the report very clear and easy to read throughout. The structure and use of photographs were particularly helpful in understanding the condition of the property. It provided a good level of practical detail on the issues identified and remedial work required, without being overly vague or overly cautious. Overall, I thought it struck a very good balance for a visual inspection, and I would highly recommend their services to others purchasing a property.
  
 
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   F Todd 
 23 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went with practical surveying for a level 3 survey as a first time buyer on a small freehold in Montpelier. From start to finish, amazing service. The report was pristine and extensive. Tolo took the time to go through any queries I had and service was impeccable. Would recommend these guys to everyone. Thank you 🙂
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   María Álvarez Villar 
 22 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We got a Level 3 in the property we are buying. This was booked quickly and we receive the report within a week. The report was thorough and they answered any queries on the day. Overall, great service, would definitely recommend.
  
 
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   S. Alwyine-Mosely 
 14 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Really easy to communicate with. Provided a survey within a week even though Easter was coming up. Tolo was really helpful post report on follow up questions and generous with his time, allowing me to speak with him on the phone a couple times. Highly recommend!
  
 
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   Amy 
 10 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We found the whole process with Practical Surveying really smooth and they communicated with us every step of the way re: time frames and when the survey was booked for. The report was really in-depth and we appreciate that they followed up with us around any questions we had from the survey.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Gareth 
 4 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Here to add another 5* review.  The people at Practical Surveying were all excellent. We asked them to conduct a Level 3 survey on a house over 200 yrs old. They provided a professional & supportive service.  We've previously only purchased new builds, so the age of this property made us a little nervy. The service, the team provided went a long way to manage these nerves.  Couldn't fault them from start to finish.
  
 
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   Jennifer Pickford 
 1 April 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I chose this company because they are local and their two surveyors have many years experience. I would like to thank Tom for excellent communication and a lovely upbeat attitude. The follow up call with Tolo was not rushed and was very helpful and informative. The report was very thorough including drone footage of the roof and chimney. I will not hesitate to recommend them to others.
  
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 5.0 of 5, based on 50 reviews

Our Services

A full range of residential and commercial building consultancy services, delivered by chartered surveyors across Bristol, London and the South West.

Lvl 3 Building Surveys

The most comprehensive pre-purchase survey for a residential property, including drone inspection of roofs and chimneys. Best suited to older, larger or more complex homes, or where you have specific concerns.

Specific Defect Surveys

A focused inspection where you already know there is a problem and need expert help understanding the cause. Common issues include damp, cracking, timber decay, roof problems and structural movement.

Party Wall Advice

We act for both building owners and adjoining owners on all party wall matters, at any stage of the process. We will guide you through the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 in a measured and constructive way.

Building Surveys & TDD

Detailed pre-acquisition reports covering building fabric, structural condition, services and compliance, with budget estimates for repairs. Suitable for office, retail, industrial and mixed-use commercial assets.

Schedules of Condition

A photographic and written record of a property’s condition at a specific point in time. Most commonly used when taking on a new commercial lease or before construction works begin nearby.

Dilapidation Surveys

Whether you are a landlord preparing a schedule, or a tenant facing a claim at lease end, we provide pragmatic advice and negotiate on your behalf. Our aim is always a fair settlement that minimises cost and disruption.

Project Management

We manage construction projects from initial scope to completion, including procurement, contract administration, site inspections and final accounts. Including warehouse refurbishments and office fit-outs.

PPM Schedule Surveys

A structured schedule of maintenance and capital expenditure for property managers, building owners and managing agents. PPM schedules support accurate budgets and reduce the risk of unexpected repair costs.

Which Surveying Service Is Right for You?

Your situation	Recommended service	Why it may be appropriate
Buying an older, larger or unusual home	Level 3 Building Survey	Provides a detailed assessment of the whole property and is particularly suited to older, altered, complex or visibly poor-condition properties.
Buying or leasing a commercial property	Commercial Building Survey / Technical Due Diligence	Helps identify building defects, risks, repair liabilities and other issues before committing to the property.
Taking on a commercial lease	Schedule of Condition	Creates a written and photographic record of the property's condition at the start of the lease, which can provide useful evidence around future repairing obligations.
Concerned about a specific issue such as cracking, damp or a roof defect	Specific Defect Survey	Focuses specifically on investigating a known or suspected defect rather than assessing the whole property.
Dealing with lease-end repair obligations	Dilapidations Advice	Helps landlords and tenants understand, prepare for or respond to issues relating to repairing obligations under a commercial lease.
Planning building work near a shared wall or neighbouring property	Party Wall Advice	Provides advice where proposed works may fall within the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and affect neighbouring owners or properties.

Why Choose Practical Surveying?

Clear, practical surveying advice for commercial and residential property decisions.

RICS-regulated

Professional surveying advice from a RICS-regulated practice, with clear standards and technical accountability.

Expert Advice

Technical surveying experience delivered with the responsiveness and direct communication of a smaller practice.

Clear guidance

Technical issues explained in straightforward terms, so you understand the risks, options and next steps.

Follow-up support

Follow-up advice is available after your report has been issued, helping you understand the findings before making decisions.

Stuart Blick MRICS
Chartered Building Surveyor
Director

Leading Expertise You Can Trust

Founded by Stuart Blick MRICS, a Chartered Building Surveyor, Practical Surveying provides expert, reliable advice backed by years of industry experience.

Stuart’s commitment to high standards ensures clients receive personalised service and trusted guidance at every stage. With RICS regulation, you can rely on us for technical excellence and integrity in all your property needs.

Get in touch with Stuart today:

We are regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), requiring the highest standards of ethical values and customer service. Our surveyors are chartered by RICS, which also requires us to have high levels of technical knowledge and experience.

For further information, read more about the benefits of RICS regulation.

Our team can be contacted directly, and will take the time to explain any issues, options and advice that you need.

You will deal with the same chartered surveyor from your first enquiry through to the delivery of your report, and we are always happy to talk things through on the phone afterwards. There are no call centres, no automated handoffs, and no surprise charges for follow-up questions.

We pride ourselves in our repeat business, and make sure that our business grows through our reputation and returning clients.

We aim to build these relationships to make sure that we offer the best services and provide the right advice. Many of our commercial instructions come from property managers, solicitors and investors who have worked with us for years, and a significant proportion of our residential surveys come through personal recommendations.

Areas We Cover

We are based in Bristol and provide commercial building surveying services across the South West, South Wales and further afield, including Bath, Cardiff, Cheltenham, Chippenham, Exeter, Gloucester, Somerset and Swindon.

For residential surveying, we mainly work across Bristol and selected surrounding areas where local knowledge and travel times allow us to provide the right level of service.

We can also assist with commercial instructions further afield, including portfolio and one-off projects. If your property is outside the areas listed above, please get in touch to discuss your requirements.

Contact us for some initial advice

Whether you are a residential building owner, a commercial tenant, a property manager or are only just considering taking on a property, we would be happy to assist you with any requirements you may have. For help getting started, feel free to contact us using the form below, or call 0330 133 7993.

FAQs

What does a RICS chartered surveyor do?

A RICS chartered surveyor inspects, assesses and reports on the condition, value or compliance of a property. At Practical Surveying, our chartered surveyors carry out residential and commercial building surveys, specific defect investigations, party wall advice, schedules of condition, dilapidations, project management and planned preventative maintenance. Being regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) means we are required to meet strict professional, ethical and technical standards on every instruction.

What is the difference between a Level 2 and a Level 3 building survey?

A Level 2 survey is a mid-level home survey suited to conventional, modern properties in reasonable condition, while a Level 3 survey is the most comprehensive residential survey available and is recommended for older, larger, altered or unusual properties. A Level 3 survey gives a deeper level of detail on construction, defects and recommended repairs, making it the better choice when you have specific concerns or are buying a period or non-standard home. Practical Surveying specialises in Level 3 full building surveys across Bristol, the South West and London.

How long does a building survey take, and when will I receive my report?

A typical Level 3 building survey takes around three hours on site for an average-sized property, and longer for larger or more complex buildings. We aim to deliver the written report within five working days of the inspection, and we will always confirm timings with you when you book. If your purchase is on a tight deadline, please let us know at the quote stage so we can prioritise where possible.

Do you cover commercial as well as residential property?

Yes, Practical Surveying provides both commercial and residential building consultancy services. On the commercial side, we work with investors, occupiers, landlords, tenants and managing agents on building surveys, technical due diligence, dilapidations, schedules of condition, party wall matters, project management and planned preventative maintenance. Our work covers offices, retail, industrial, warehousing and mixed-use property across Bristol, the South West and London.

Which areas do you cover?

We are based in Bristol and cover the South West of England, the M4 corridor and Greater London. Common locations include Bristol, Bath, Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon, Portishead, Gloucester, Cheltenham, Swindon, Cardiff, Newport, Taunton, Exeter, Salisbury, Reading and London. If your property is outside these areas, please get in touch — we are often able to help further afield, particularly for commercial instructions and portfolio work.

What is the difference between a commercial building survey and a Schedule of Condition?

This comes up repeatedly across competitor/service content and directly helps users choose between two important Practical Surveying services.

Do I need a Schedule of Condition before signing a commercial lease?

Strong high-intent question. Search results repeatedly frame this around lease commencement, repairing obligations and future dilapidations risk.

Do I need a commercial building survey before taking on a lease?

Very commercially relevant. It lets Practical Surveying explain why a tenant may want to understand condition and liabilities before committing, rather than only after problems arise.

What does a commercial building survey look for?

Strong broad informational question and useful for users earlier in their decision journey. It also gives Practical Surveying space to explain defects, risks, services, compliance and repair liabilities.