About Me - Sarah

Hi there, I’m Sarah! Welcome to my blog ‘About Me’. I figured it’s time you got to know the people behind the surveys, the property advice, and yes… the occasional DIY advice.

So, what got me into Residential Building Surveying? Well, I guess it started when I renovated my first property at the age of 26. I caught the bug, and fast! I trained as a wall and floor tiler and spent 17 years as a self-employed tiler.  I even had a 7-year stint in a property renovation business partnership. But, let’s be honest, I knew I couldn’t stay on the tools forever.   No one wants a little old lady fitting their flagstone flooring! So, I retrained… fast forward a few years and I have a Level 6 Diploma in Residential Building Surveying and Land Valuation.  I gained Associate membership to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (AssocRICS), and am also a registered RICS Valuer.  Alongside that I'm an Associate to the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (ACABE), and I am a  Member of the Residential Property Surveying Association (MRPSA).   

Becoming a Residential Building Surveyor was the perfect fit – combining my passion for property, my love for building, and another career helping people make the most of their homes. Plus, I wouldn’t have to keep lifting heavy tiles and sacks of adhesive!

What do I love most about my work? Well, who wouldn’t love scrolling through Rightmove for a living, or visiting other people's houses? (I jest!).  Seriously, though, it’s the pleasure of being able to help people make decisions about their home.  I get to use my knowledge to make the process smoother and less stressful – because, let’s face it, buying a home is pretty stressful.

Running Chichester Surveyors is a rewarding challenge. I’ve been self-employed for over 20 years, so being my own boss is just in my blood. But the best bit? Having my business partner, Rebecca, by my side. Not only is she a super-talented Chartered Building  and Party Wall Surveyor, but also a wonderful friend.  Together we have created a friendly, approachable business model, giving our clients over and above what they expect.  Our Google reviews speak for themselves and we're very proud to be where we are today.

Back to me...!

My years of experience as a tiler and renovator. I’ve stripped out umpteen properties to brick and joist, and built them back up again; I understand how buildings are put together and, more importantly, how and why defects appear. I’ve spent years working alongside talented trades, watching and learning and always asking a million questions!

Outside of work, I’m all about staying active. I run, open water swim, and I’ve even been known to take part in the odd triathlon (for fun!).  When I’m not working up a sweat, I’m planning my next adventure. I’ve travelled all over the world, with Goa, Thailand, and New Zealand being my top travel spots.

On weekends, might find me doing DIY(!). I’m definitely a ‘do-er’! How do I relax? The best way to get me to sit still is by inviting me to the pub – I promise I’ll sit still for that!

Oh, and here’s a fun fact – I danced ballet until I was 20. I really thought I was going to be a ballerina! But somehow, I ended up here, climbing into loft spaces, discussing dampness in buildings and helping people navigate the complex world of buy and selling property!   Funny how life works, isn’t it?

When it comes to surveying, my philosophy is simple – don’t over-complicate things. The process can be stressful enough without adding confusion to the mix. My goal is to use my expertise and experience (I’ve bought and sold over 14 times) to make things easier for you, so you feel confident and informed every step of the way.

So, if you’re looking for a no-nonsense, down-to-earth surveyor who’s passionate about people and property, look no further. You’re in good hands with me at Chichester Surveyors.