Business Details
Your Trusted Chartered Surveyors in London
Established in 1880, McDowalls Surveyors have built a reputation as a trusted firm of Chartered Surveyors serving London, Essex, and the South East. Our expertise spans residential and commercial property services, including sales, lettings, valuations, lease extensions, and property licensing. As a RICS-regulated company with over 130 years of experience, we combine traditional values with modern specialisms to deliver high-quality, competitive services.Our team of qualified professionals adheres to strict regulatory standards, ensuring client funds are safeguarded and disputes resolved through accredited redress schemes. We pride ourselves on transparency, client-focused solutions, and a deep understanding of local property markets, supported by our involvement in council licensing initiatives and industry-leading accreditations.
Services
Residential Sales
Commercial Lettings
Property Valuations
Lease Extensions
Property Licensing
Highlights and features
- We have over 130 years of experience in property surveying.
- Our company is RICS regulated for professional standards.
- We process over 800 property licence applications annually.
- Our team includes directors on Newham Council's Licensing Forum.
- We offer transparent pricing with discounts for multiple properties.
Associations and certifications
- RICS
- The Property Ombudsman
- Client Money Protection
- TDS / Deposit Protection Service
What people say
Great service
Excellent service
Speed and efficiency
Highly recommend
Professional and polite
Services
Residential Property Sales
We facilitate residential property transactions with expert market analysis and negotiation. Our team ensures transparent processes, leveraging local market knowledge to achieve optimal prices. Clients benefit from our RICS-regulated standards and 130+ years of combined experience in East London and surrounding areas.
Commercial Property Lettings
Our commercial lettings service covers retail units, offices, and warehouses. We manage tenant acquisition, lease compliance, and property management, supported by a 20-year track record with corporate clients. Services include rent reviews, service charge management, and statutory compliance oversight.
Property Valuations
RICS-accredited valuations for residential and commercial properties, including lease extensions and staircasing. Our surveyors provide accurate, legally compliant reports, with expertise in housing association valuations and compulsory purchase cases since the 1920s.
Property Licensing
We process selective and HMO licences across London, including floor plans, EPCs, and compliance checks. With over 800 applications handled, we advise on Smoke and Carbon Monoxide regulations, offering fixed-fee packages and council liaison services.
Lease Extensions
Specialist lease extension services for residential properties, including enfranchisement and resales. Our team negotiates terms with freeholders, provides valuation reports, and ensures compliance with Section 20 regulations for major works.
People
Christopher Baker
Managing Director
B.Sc.(Hons), Dip. Est. Man, FIRPM, AssocRICS. Joined McDowalls Surveyors in 1999, became partner, and acquired the company in 2011. Leads property licensing initiatives and sits on Newham Council's Landlord Licensing Focus Group.
Andrew Carter
Director
B.A.(Hons), Dip. Est. Man. M.R.I.C.S. Manages residential and commercial lettings, with expertise in lease renewals and block management. Oversees client relations and operational strategy since joining the firm.
Questions
What areas do you cover?
We operate across London, Essex, and the South East, with a focus on East London and Newham.
Are you RICS accredited?
Yes, we are RICS regulated, ensuring adherence to professional standards and client fund protection.
How much does property licensing cost?
Selective licences start at £480 VAT, HMO licences at £900 VAT. Discounts apply for multiple properties.
How long have you been in business?
Since 1880, providing surveying and property services for over 140 years.
Do you offer lease extension services?
Yes, we specialise in lease extensions, enfranchisement, and related valuations for residential properties.
Can you help with tenant deposits?
We protect tenant deposits through the TDS scheme, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
