House Removals Survey

When moving home, you most probably have a moving budget in mind. To get an accurate fixed rate price, moving companies will ask you to conduct an on-site or video survey. This is a short period of time inspection of your belongings, so the removal company can calculate the number of removal boxes needed and the total volume of your move. Only after an actual moving home survey, each removal company will offer a flat rate moving quotation. Read our blog post to find out if you need one and what to expect during the visit.

Why do I need removals survey?

A removal survey is usually needed when you have a big property, typically two bedrooms and above. The removal company might recommend visiting your property if there are additional services involved, too. This could be packing and unpacking of the boxes, lots of stairs and tricky packing, storage, or awkward furniture which needs to go through a balcony or a window. Book A Mover always advises having a home survey conducted, as this way the movers will have it measured and calculated properly to avoid extra costs and extra vehicles required.

A removal survey is usually arranged at a convenient time for both parties, where you need to give at least 30-40 minutes of your time for the surveyor to go around your property to ask you all the necessary questions needed so he/she can calculate the removal cost properly.

What the surveyor might ask you?

First, be prepared you will need to show the company`s representative everything on the property- inside and outside. You will probably be asked politely to open all cupboards, loft spaces, and closets, so the surveyor can see what is the amount of stuff inside. The removals surveyor needs to know two things – the number of items inside and if there are any fragile items to be packed.

• You will be asked important questions before, during, or after the survey. These are:
• Parking arrangements at the old and new properties
• Time restriction- a certain time when the property has to be empty and what time you are likely to get the keys for the new property
• Any items which are not going- staying in the property or going in the tip
• Will you need full or partial packing service
• Amount of insurance and value of your goods
• Taking items from the loft or basement – do you need help or you will do it yourself
• Any height restrictions at the new address
• Any vehicle weight and size restriction at both addresses
• Moving date to be confirmed
• Any dismantling or reassembling of furniture needed, or it will be done by you

Home visit or virtual survey?

If you do not want strangers to visit your home personally, you can also request a video survey. During the pandemic times, most removal companies moved to do video removal surveys through apps like Zoom, Whatsapp, or Facetime. It is more convenient and less time-consuming compared to an actual moving home survey.

A site visit is recommended when you live on a big property. Video surveys are hardly accurate when you have more than 2 bedrooms, so it is much better for the surveyor to visit your property. When conducting an actual visit, an experienced removal specialist can spot any issues with items too big to come out the normal way, or he/she may notice some parking obstructions like low tree branches, issues with the building`s lift and sort of.

What happens after the removal survey

After a removal survey has been conducted by a removal company, there are several things you should expect:

• Quotation and Cost Estimate: The removal company will provide you with a detailed quotation and cost estimate based on the information gathered during the survey. This will include the services they will provide, the volume or weight of your belongings, any additional services requested, and the overall cost of the move.
• Customized Moving Plan: The removal company will create a customized moving plan based on the survey. This plan will outline the logistics, timelines, and specific requirements for your move. It may include details such as packing and unpacking services, special handling for fragile or valuable items, and any additional services you have requested.
• Recommendations and Advice: The removal company may offer recommendations and advice based on their expertise and experience. They may suggest optimal packing techniques, provide guidance on preparing your belongings for the move, or offer tips on how to streamline the process and make it more efficient.
• Clarification of Services: The removal survey allows you to clarify any doubts or questions you may have regarding the moving process. You can discuss specific requirements, address concerns about delicate or valuable items, or seek further information on insurance coverage or storage options, if needed.
• Communication and Coordination: The removal company will establish clear lines of communication and coordination with you. They will provide the contact details of a dedicated moving coordinator or point of contact, who will guide you through the process, answer any queries, and keep you informed about the progress of your move.

Remember, the specific details and expectations may vary depending on the removal company you choose, so it’s essential to discuss these points with them directly to ensure a smooth and successful move.