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Navigating the Shaftesbury property market can be challenging, whether you're buying, selling, renovating or dealing with other complex property issues. A skilled and reliable surveyor is essential and choosing an RICS-accredited surveyor ensures you're getting expert guidance.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is a globally recognised professional body that upholds the highest standards in the surveying industry. RICS accreditation means your surveyor has met rigorous qualifications, follows a strict code of ethics and carries professional indemnity insurance.
Expertise: RICS surveyors have an in-depth understanding of the Shaftesbury property market, local trends and regulations. This means you’ll receive accurate, relevant advice tailored to your needs.
Impartiality: You can trust an RICS surveyor to provide unbiased assessments, always working with your best interests in mind.
Assurance: RICS surveyors are fully insured, offering protection in the unlikely event of errors or omissions.
We’re here to simplify your Shaftesbury property journey. Take a look at our informative articles:
Contact us today to discuss your surveying needs and experience the benefits of working with an RICS-accredited professional in Shaftesbury.
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 Shaftesbury typically ranges from £420 to £1,550.
What factors can affect the final cost?
We’re here to help! Get in touch today to discuss your Shaftesbury property and receive expert advice on which survey would be best suited to your needs.
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.
Ross is originally from South Africa but now calls the UK home—a country he's always felt connected to because of his family roots. His journey here took a new turn when he met his British wife during her working holiday in South Africa. After falling in love, Ross made the move to the UK to begin a fresh chapter in his life.
With a long-standing passion for building and construction, Ross started his career as a Quantity Surveyor back in South Africa. During his apprenticeship, he worked on material calculations for residential projects. However, Ross soon discovered that he thrived in a more hands-on role and made the switch to becoming a Residential Surveyor—a path he finds both challenging and rewarding.
Now based in the UK, Ross is a fully qualified RICS surveyor working with Camsure Homes. His dedication to providing top-quality service shines through in everything he does. Ross takes pride in guiding his clients through their property journeys, ensuring clear and open communication so clients feel confident and supported in every decision they make.
"Camsure Homes is a friendly and knowledgable company. We have a diverse number of residential surveyors that bring a lot of knowledge and experience to the table."
- Ross, Shaftesbury Surveyor, Camsure Home Surveys 2024
Would recommend
Very quick, clear and Ross was very helpful with any follow up questions. Would recommend.
This charming three-bedroom detached family house is located in a sought-after village setting in Dorset. An RICS Level 3 Building Survey was recently carried out on the property to provide a detailed analysis of its condition for the clients.
An RICS Level 3 Building Survey is the most comprehensive type of property survey available. It is ideal for older properties, larger homes or homes requiring a higher degree of investigation. This type of survey provides a detailed evaluation of the property’s condition and identifies visible and potential issues to inform the buyer.
The Level 3 Building Survey involves several key stages to assess both the internal and external condition of the property thoroughly:
After receiving the detailed Level 3 report, clients are equipped with the information necessary to assess their property investment. The report outlines any issues and offers practical advice to address concerns, ensuring the property remains safe, secure, and functional for the future.
A Level 3 Building Survey provides buyers with a comprehensive and detailed view of a property’s condition. It highlights potential risks and issues before they become costly problems, ensuring confidence in the homebuying process.
If you’re looking to purchase a home in Dorset or would like to learn more about a comprehensive property evaluation, contact us today to arrange your Level 3 Building Survey.
Our skilled surveyor provides an extensive selection of survey options, tailored to align with your individual needs and the specifications of your property. Take a look at our detailed descriptions to discover the perfect survey for your requirements.
Our Shaftesbury-based surveyor is an accredited member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), specialising in Homebuyer Reports for properties built after 1930 that are in good condition.
Using a straightforward "traffic light" system, the report sheds light on the current condition and structural integrity of the property. In addition to the physical assessment, it offers valuable insights into legal matters, identifies urgent issues requiring immediate attention, suggests potential solutions for defects impacting the property's value and provides guidance on future maintenance.
For a reasonable additional fee, we also offer a market valuation service for your property.
This comprehensive report goes beyond the basics, addressing environmental factors like flood risks, proximity to mining or landfill sites, soil types and the presence of radon gas. Additionally, it evaluates the potential effects of major infrastructure projects, such as the HS2 rail line, on your property's value.
Our thorough Building Survey, formerly known as a Full Structural Survey, is perfect for properties in Shaftesbury built before 1930.
This evaluation provides a more comprehensive assessment of the property's condition than a standard Homebuyer Report, offering greater detail and additional valuable insights.
For a nominal extra charge, you have the option to include a property valuation assessment, which provides tailored recommendations for addressing any issues, repairs or maintenance requirements.
The aim of this comprehensive report is to empower you to make informed decisions about the property's condition and plan for future maintenance needs.
Our objective survey seeks to determine the market value of your property and may identify areas warranting further investigation.
For Help to Buy applications, our specially qualified RICS registered surveyor will evaluate your home's value, crucial for determining your financial commitment.
Please note that this valuation is valid for three months.
Camsure Home Surveys did a very thorough job of our level 3 survey
Camsure Home Surveys did a very thorough job of our level 3 survey, finding a lot of potential problems that would have caused considerable trouble if we hadn't known about them. They were very quick to produce the report and phoned first to let us know the most important points on it. The report itself is 87 pages long, but it is easy to see what is most urgent as they use a "traffic lights" system to categorise each item. I'm hoping not to move again for quite a while, but if I do, I would be very happy to use them again.
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.
The housing market in Shaftesbury, Dorset, shows the following trends:
Here's a breakdown of the average prices for different property types:
| Property Type | Average Price (£) | Percentage of Sales |
|---|---|---|
| Terraced Properties | £237,037 | Most sales |
| Semi-detached Properties | £319,311 | |
| Detached Properties | £505,036 |
Source: RightMove December 2024
Shaftesbury is set to see a range of new housing developments, designed to meet both affordable housing needs and the demand for family homes. From large-scale projects by developers like Persimmon Homes and Sovereign Housing Association to smaller, strategic housing proposals, these projects aim to enhance local living while supporting community infrastructure. With a mix of affordable rent, shared ownership and private sale options, these developments promise to provide diverse housing opportunities for the growing local population.
This development offers a mix of three, four and five-bedroom homes and is located in a scenic hilltop area close to local amenities. Over 85% of the first phase has already been sold, highlighting its appeal to prospective buyers.
This affordable housing project offers 51 affordable homes as part of a wider 143-home development in the Littledown area of Shaftesbury. Of these 51 affordable homes, 26 are available for affordable rent and 25 are offered through shared ownership. The development has been designed to meet the high local demand for affordable housing in North Dorset.
A new 107-home development has been approved by Dorset Council and will include a mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes and bungalows, with 34 of these units designated as affordable homes. The plans also include land reserved for a new school, a care home, a hotel and non-food retail units.
This proposal has been approved and includes the construction of homes along with a new access route from Lower Blandford Road.
Shaftesbury is an historic town in Dorset with a distinctive character that draws visitors and potential homebuyers alike. Known for its iconic Gold Hill—famously featured in Ridley Scott's Hovis bread advert—the town offers a mix of history, charm and unique rural living. However, with limited services and its somewhat isolated location, it's essential to understand Shaftesbury fully before making a move.
Shaftesbury sits atop a large hill, which provides incredible views but also brings a cold and windy climate throughout much of the year. The town’s elevation and rural location contribute to its isolated feel, with locals noting it’s a bit off the beaten path—roughly 45 minutes from nearby urban centres. Many homes are period properties with stone cottages and traditional terraced houses dominating the housing market. While this offers plenty of character, it can also mean fewer modern amenities nearby unless you travel further south to towns like Wimborne or Dorchester.
One of Shaftesbury’s most famous landmarks is Gold Hill, an historic cobbled street that has appeared in countless calendars and advertisements. This quintessentially English view is a favourite stop for visitors and provides a snapshot of the town’s aesthetic. However, those moving here will find that the town has limited local services compared to more urban areas, with access to essentials requiring travel to nearby towns like Salisbury or Dorchester.
Shaftesbury has limited services and amenities, which can be challenging for new residents. While the town itself offers a quieter lifestyle with local cafes, markets and essential shops, it may lack the bustling amenities of larger towns. For families or those with a preference for proximity to schools and services, towns like Salisbury or Wimborne may be better options. For transport connections, Ringwood in Hampshire offers convenient access to the South East's commuter links while maintaining proximity to Shaftesbury.
Like many rural locations in Dorset, Shaftesbury does have areas at risk of flooding, particularly following heavy rainfall. Although it is not considered a high-risk flood zone compared to other areas in the region, potential homebuyers should be aware of any nearby rivers, streams or local drainage concerns that could lead to problems during adverse weather. It’s always wise to check historical flood data for the property’s location when considering a purchase.
Radon levels are another important environmental consideration in Shaftesbury. Radon is a naturally occurring gas linked to geological formations in certain areas of the UK. It can accumulate in homes, particularly in older properties with poor ventilation. Shaftesbury does see naturally occurring radon due to its rural geology, though levels are generally low compared to other radon hotspots. Homebuyers should check if radon mitigation measures have been taken in older properties or if the home has adequate ventilation to reduce risk.
Shaftesbury is considered the most dangerous small town in Dorset, with its crime rate significantly higher than the Dorset average. According to recent statistics, the overall crime rate stands at 76 crimes per 1,000 people, which is 25% higher than Dorset's average of 61 per 1,000. For comparison, Shaftesbury is ranked among the top 10 most dangerous towns in Dorset overall. While the town does experience crime, prospective homebuyers should ensure they explore local safety measures and speak to residents about their experiences in the area.
Shaftesbury's rural location provides a quieter lifestyle, but its transport links are somewhat limited. While the town itself has easy access to the A30 and A303, connecting to Salisbury and other urban hubs in Dorset, it remains a 45-minute journey from major centres. Residents may need to rely on car transport for most day-to-day travel. For those commuting to larger cities, Salisbury offers excellent rail links. Ringwood, further to the east, is a good alternative for those prioritising better connectivity options while maintaining proximity to Shaftesbury.
Families considering a move to Shaftesbury will find limited local education options directly within the town. Most families opt to commute to nearby areas like Salisbury for access to comprehensive primary and secondary schools. In addition, opportunities for further education are better served in larger towns and urban centres. Shaftesbury offers a quieter environment, with family-friendly parks and green spaces for recreation. However, families should plan for travel if prioritising schools and amenities is essential.
Compared to other nearby towns such as Dorchester and Wimborne, Shaftesbury is quieter and more rural. While Dorchester offers more services and amenities, including better connectivity to the coast, Shaftesbury offers a very rural lifestyle with unique local heritage. Similarly, Salisbury has better infrastructure for families and commuting, making it a practical choice for those seeking urban links. However, Ringwood (in Hampshire) provides excellent regional access while maintaining a small-town feel.
Choosing the best place to live in Shaftesbury depends on individual needs, lifestyle preferences and budget. The historic market town offers a range of housing options, from period homes to modern developments, each with its own appeal. Below are some of the most sought-after areas in Shaftesbury, based on local insights and property trends:
The town centre is ideal for those who want to be close to local amenities, shops and historic landmarks such as Gold Hill. Living in or near the heart of Shaftesbury offers convenience, as residents have easy access to independent shops, cafes and the local healthcare facilities. However, properties here can be slightly smaller, reflecting the town's historical nature.
One of the most modern residential areas in Shaftesbury, Blackmore Down offers newly built homes with contemporary features and excellent energy efficiency. This area provides a quieter lifestyle with easy access to the countryside and nearby green spaces. Blackmore Down is a popular choice for families and professionals looking for a modern living environment while staying connected to the town's amenities.
Saxon Grange offers a mix of affordable family homes and larger properties, ideal for those who value spacious living and proximity to local parks and walking routes. This area combines convenience with accessibility, making it a great choice for families and professionals relocating to Shaftesbury.
For buyers prioritising connectivity and access to broader amenities, areas closer to Salisbury or Dorchester are a viable option. These towns provide better access to transport links, schools and larger shopping facilities. Residents looking for a balance between the rural appeal of Shaftesbury and urban accessibility may consider these neighbouring towns.
The Shaftesbury property market can be a daunting challenge, from buying your first home to complex renovations. We're here to guide you through every step.
As your local surveyors, we're passionate about making your property journey a smooth one. We offer expert guidance, clear communication and support at every turn, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to proceed with ease.
