Buying a property in Crawley? Whether you're looking at a flat near the town centre or a house in Pound Hill, arranging a professional survey can give you clarity before you commit.
Camsure Home Surveys provides clear, impartial reports carried out by experienced RICS-accredited surveyors. We regularly work across Crawley, Ifield, Three Bridges and the surrounding areas.
Our core services include RICS HomeBuyer Surveys, Level 3 Building Surveys and Red Book Valuations. Each one is designed to help you understand the property's condition, highlight any defects and outline any future costs you may face.
We’ve been named the UK's Best Surveyors for 2025 by Compare My Move, but what sets us apart is how we work day to day. Our surveys are thorough, our reports are clear and we put your interests first.
You’ll speak directly with your local surveyor from the outset. No call centres or automated responses – just honest, professional advice from someone who knows the Crawley area.
We’re proud of our 4.8-star Trustpilot rating, and we’re trusted by buyers ranging from first-time homeowners to landlords and investors.
We also offer Housing Disrepair Claims and Insurance Reinstatement Valuations.
Not all property surveys are created equal. Choosing a surveyor regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) means your report follows strict professional standards – and that your surveyor is accountable, qualified and fully insured.
RICS-accredited surveyors undergo regular training and are required to follow a code of conduct. That gives buyers added protection, especially when dealing with older properties, complex renovations or unclear planning histories – all of which come up regularly in Crawley.
At Camsure, all our surveys are carried out by experienced RICS surveyors who know the local area well. We provide detailed reports tailored to the type of property you’re buying, whether it’s a post-war semi in Bewbush or a newer home in Forge Wood.
You get a clear, objective report with no hidden agenda. If there’s something you need to be aware of – structural concerns, poor alterations, signs of damp – we’ll tell you. If the property is in good condition, we’ll say that too. It’s all about helping you move forward with confidence, whether you're buying your first home or adding to a portfolio.
We are proud to be RICS-regulated and recognised as the Best UK surveyor for 2025 by Compare My Move. Our reputation for quality is echoed in positive feedback shared across customer reviews and recognised on AI platforms like ChatGPT, Ask AI and Gemini.
Choose us for trusted expertise, outstanding service and peace of mind.
The cost of a home survey in Crawley usually falls between £420 and £1,550. The final price depends on the property’s size, condition and the type of report you choose – but a well-matched survey could help you avoid costly surprises later.
Here are the main factors that affect survey cost:
Property Size: Larger homes take longer to inspect and assess.
Condition and Age: Older properties or those showing signs of alteration often need more detailed reporting.
Survey Type: A Level 2 Homebuyer Report is more suited to newer or well-maintained properties, while a Level 3 Building Survey is better for older, extended or unusual buildings.
Camsure offers straightforward pricing with no hidden charges. Request a quote today based on your Crawley property and the level of detail you need.
Not sure which survey is right?
We’ve prepared a selection of practical articles to help you compare survey types and decide what’s best for your situation.
A detailed visual inspection to clearly see the property's condition and any concerns prior to purchase.
Confirms market value and provides a rebuild cost for insurance purposes.
The most comprehensive survey, ideal for older properties, those in poor condition or where major works are planned.
Written market valuation for various purposes including Help To Buy, Shared Ownership and inheritance tax.*
*Valuations and rebuild costs can be added to a Building Survey at request, for an additional fee.
Our local surveyor visited this four-bedroom detached property in Crawley to carry out a Level 3 RICS Building Survey on behalf of prospective buyers.
This comprehensive survey is the most detailed report available under the RICS framework, and is particularly recommended for larger or older homes – or where future renovation is being considered.
Our surveyor's survey included a full inspection of the main structure, roof, walls, services and all visible areas, with specific attention paid to past alterations and the overall condition of the build.
By identifying potential risks and highlighting areas that may require further attention, the survey helped the buyers weigh up any additional costs and proceed with a clearer understanding of the property’s condition.
Our RICS-certified surveyor in Chichester offers comprehensive Homebuyer Survey Reports for post-1930 houses in good condition throughout the Crawley area.
What sets us apart?
Our user-friendly "traffic light" report details the property's condition, including any urgent issues or defects that could devalue it. Our surveyors also uncover legal concerns and provide long-term maintenance advice.
Need a valuation?
For a small added cost, we also provide a detailed market valuation service. We go the extra mile by checking environmental factors like flood risks and potential impacts from nearby infrastructure projects.
Our extensive Building Survey (formerly known as a Full Structural Survey) is meticulously designed for properties in Crawley built before 1930.
Going beyond the scope of a Homebuyer Report, this examination provides a deeper understanding of the property's condition and offers essential advice.
For just a slightly higher fee, consider including a property value assessment. This comes with bespoke recommendations for resolving any issues, performing repairs or addressing any ongoing maintenance needs.
This in-depth report ensures you have all the information you need to make sound judgements about the property's state and its future care requirements.
Our objective is to establish the accurate market value of your Crawley property through a thorough, impartial valuation report. This process may uncover areas that warrant additional investigation.
For Help to Buy applicants, our specially qualified RICS registered surveyor will determine your home's value, an essential factor in calculating your financial commitment.
Please be aware that this valuation is valid for three months.
Good communication
Fast, efficient service. Good communication throughout and a comprehensive and helpful survey report.
It depends on the complexity of your property.
Most RICS surveys are completed in 2-24 hours, with larger or more complex properties potentially requiring longer.
Talk to your chosen surveyor directly to confirm the expected timeframe for both the inspection and the report delivery.
Buying a home:
Get a survey after your offer is accepted: This demonstrates your seriousness and streamlines the process.
Selling your home:
Consider a pre-sale survey: Identify potential issues that could delay or even stall your sale.
Concerned about repairs?
Invest in a Level 2 survey: Gain valuable insights and plan for necessary repairs before they escalate.
The time between your survey and buying the house varies based on the findings.
If there are no major issues: the process can continue smoothly as planned.
If significant problems are discovered, you might consider:
These steps may involve additional inspections from other specialists, which can extend the timeline.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, surveys are optional, but highly recommended. They can give buyers confidence and prevent unforeseen problems later.
In Scotland, getting a survey is a must before you can even list your property.
Crawley has seen a slight adjustment in property values, with some homes taking longer to sell than this time last year. This has given buyers more room to negotiate and take time over decisions.
The number of available listings has risen slightly and price reductions are more common, especially on homes needing work.
That said, well-maintained properties in good locations still sell quickly. The rental market remains strong, with high demand for family homes and commuter-friendly flats.
Here's a breakdown of the average prices for different property types:
Property Type | Average Price (£) | Percentage of Sales |
---|---|---|
Semi-detached Properties | £603,040 | |
Terraced Properties | £335,529 | Most sales |
Flats | £390,369 |
Source: RightMove April 2025
Crawley is experiencing significant residential growth, with several key developments underway to meet housing demand and support the borough's strategic objectives.
Forge WoodForge Wood, Crawley's 14th residential neighbourhood, is progressing towards its scheduled completion in 2026. This development will deliver 1,900 homes on land adjacent to Tinsley Green, incorporating ancient woodland within its boundaries. The project includes a mix of housing types and community facilities, contributing to the town's expansion plans.
Brownfield Redevelopment ProjectsCrawley Borough Council has secured over £3.85 million in Brownfield Land Release Funding to prepare three sites for residential development: the old Town Hall, Longley House and Deerswood Court garages. These projects aim to provide high-quality, affordable homes and alleviate pressure on the housing waiting list. Demolition works are expected to commence by March 2025, with residential developments contracted by March 2028.
Crawley Down DevelopmentAn outline planning application has been submitted for up to 350 new homes in Crawley Down, Mid Sussex. The proposed development includes 105 affordable homes and is designed to support Mid Sussex's housing targets. The plans emphasise sustainable living with public open spaces and have been shaped through community consultation.
Crawley, in West Sussex, combines the convenience of a commuter town with access to open countryside and established local services. Known for its post-war New Town planning and excellent transport links, Crawley is a popular choice for families, professionals and first-time buyers. For anyone considering a move, it’s worth understanding the property types, local risks and practical considerations before buying.
Crawley’s housing stock includes post-war family homes, Victorian terraces in older neighbourhoods, 1960s and 1970s developments, and more recent housing on estates like Forge Wood. Many properties were built as part of the town’s post-war expansion and share practical, spacious layouts.
Historic Buildings and Their Features: Buildings like St Nicholas’ Church in Worth reflect the area’s older character. While not common across most of Crawley, pockets of historic properties still exist in Ifield Village and parts of Northgate. These homes often fall within conservation areas and may be subject to planning restrictions that affect extensions or alterations.
Local Stone: Some older properties and outbuildings in the Crawley area make use of local sandstone and Horsham stone. These materials are attractive but porous, which can make them vulnerable to staining or water ingress if not properly maintained. Repointing and damp management are often required.
Survey Findings Specific to Crawley:
Hazelwick School and Thomas Bennett Community College are well-regarded local secondary schools, while Crawley College offers further education options. Tilgate Park, on the southern edge of town, is one of the largest public parks in the region. It includes a lake, nature centre and forest walks—popular with residents of all ages.
The High Street and County Mall Shopping Centre provide a mix of retail and leisure, while Crawley Leisure Park includes a cinema and several chain restaurants.
Flood Risks: Crawley is not considered high risk overall, but certain parts of Broadfield, Langley Green and low-lying roads near the River Mole are occasionally affected by surface water flooding during heavy rainfall. Buyers should request a flood report as part of their pre-purchase enquiries.
Radon Risks: Crawley is in a low-risk radon area, but testing is still advised for older homes or those with basements. It’s a quick and inexpensive check that can be done as part of a building survey if required.
Traffic Congestion: Crawley’s road system was designed to handle growth, but routes around the town centre, Gatwick Road and Pegler Way can become busy at peak times. The A23 and junctions leading to the M23 are commonly affected by commuter traffic.
Public Transport: Crawley benefits from three train stations: Crawley, Three Bridges and Ifield. Services to London Victoria, London Bridge and Brighton run frequently, making it a viable base for commuters. The Fastway bus system also provides reliable connections around town and to Gatwick Airport.
There are several conservation areas in Crawley, including:
Buyers considering homes in conservation areas should check with the local planning authority before carrying out external works or replacing windows and doors.
Crime rates in Crawley are higher than the West Sussex average, with more incidents reported in the town centre and around Langley Green. Common issues include anti-social behaviour, shoplifting and vehicle crime. Neighbourhoods like Pound Hill, Maidenbower and Ifield East generally report lower crime levels. Buyers can consult Sussex Police’s crime map for up-to-date local data.
Survey Recommendations: A HomeBuyer Report is often suitable for post-war homes in good condition, while older or altered properties in areas like Ifield and Northgate benefit from a Level 3 Building Survey. These surveys provide more detail on structure, materials and potential repairs.
Unique Survey Challenges: In some parts of Crawley, loft conversions and rear extensions have been added without full documentation. A detailed survey can flag concerns about building regulations or planning compliance before contracts are exchanged.
Homes built in the mid-20th century often feature brick cavity walls, tile cladding, and concrete roof tiles. These materials are durable but can show wear with age. Tile-hung facades are common on many estate homes and need periodic checks for moss, cracked tiles and water penetration behind the cladding.
Compared to nearby towns like Horsham and East Grinstead, Crawley offers better transport links, a wider choice of schools and more housing stock suited to growing families. While some parts of Crawley have higher crime levels or busier roads, the town delivers good value for money, particularly for buyers looking for space and connectivity within reach of London and the South Coast.
One of Crawley’s most sought-after neighbourhoods, Pound Hill is known for its quiet streets, larger homes, and proximity to Three Bridges station. It has a mix of detached houses, townhouses and newer developments, making it popular with families and commuters alike.
A modern residential area with good primary and secondary schools, parks and easy access to the M23. It offers a range of property styles including 1990s family homes, making it ideal for those looking for low-maintenance, well-planned estates.
Ifield offers a more village-like feel, especially around Ifield Green and the conservation area. It features a blend of older cottages, post-war homes and new builds, with strong appeal for those seeking character or a more traditional layout.
Popular for its proximity to Tilgate Park, one of Crawley’s best green spaces. The area includes a mix of family houses and ex-local authority homes, many of which have been improved or extended. It’s also close to Crawley town centre and good schools.
Well connected by rail, Three Bridges is ideal for London commuters. It includes a variety of housing, from period properties to more modern homes, and is within walking distance of supermarkets, schools and business parks.
Close to the town centre but still residential in feel, Southgate offers convenient access to shops, schools and Crawley station. Properties here range from mid-century semis to newer infill developments, with good transport options in all directions.
A quiet, family-oriented neighbourhood with plenty of green space, playgrounds and walking routes. Many homes were built in the 1960s and 70s, offering solid construction and generous plots. Popular with buyers looking for space and peace.
We're surveyors in Crawley and we understand the complexities of buying, selling or renovating a property, regardless of its size. That's why we're here to help!
We'll be your trusted guide, working closely with you every step of the way.