Business Details
35 Years
experience
Trusted RICS Chartered Surveyors in Fareham
Cranes is a firm of independent Chartered Surveyors formed through the merger of Destin 4 and Chandler Hawkins, established in 1991. Our directors collectively bring over 80 years of experience in property, combining technical excellence, local insight, and personal service. We specialise in residential and commercial surveying and valuation services across Hampshire, West Sussex, and the South Coast. Our team of RICS-registered professionals delivers clear, accurate, and actionable advice to support clients at every stage of property decision-making. With deep local knowledge and decades of combined experience, we provide insights grounded in first-hand understanding of local property markets and building styles.Our approach is personal and transparent, ensuring clients receive comprehensive support and reliable guidance. We uphold the highest professional standards under the RICS code of conduct, offering impartial assessments that reflect both property condition and regional context. Much of our work comes through recommendation, reflecting the trust built with homeowners, solicitors, and estate agents. We are committed to helping clients make informed property decisions with confidence.
Services
Homebuyers Survey
Building Survey
Drone Survey
Property Valuations
Lease Extension Valuation
Inheritance Tax Valuation
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We combine over 80 years of collective experience in property surveying and valuation.
- Our RICS-registered team provides impartial, technically rigorous assessments.
- Local expertise covering Hampshire, West Sussex, and South Coast property markets.
- We offer transparent explanations and client-focused support at every stage.
- Our reputation is built on recommendations from satisfied homeowners and professionals.
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
What people say
Excellent service
Knowledgeable team
Prompt and professional
Clear explanations
Highly recommend
Services
Homebuyers Survey
Our RICS HomeBuyer Reports provide condition assessments for typical houses, highlighting defects and repair advice. This service helps buyers understand property risks and make informed decisions. Conducted by experienced surveyors with local market expertise.
Building Survey
Level 3 Building Surveys offer comprehensive inspections for older or complex properties. We identify structural issues and provide detailed recommendations. Ideal for properties requiring major works or detailed condition analysis.
Property Valuations
RICS-registered valuers deliver accurate market valuations for purchase, sale, or legal purposes. Our reports consider location, condition, and market trends. Services include mortgage valuations and Help to Buy assessments.
Drone Survey
Drone technology enables detailed roof and hard-to-reach area inspections. This non-invasive method improves safety and accuracy. Combined with traditional surveys for comprehensive property analysis.
Lease Extension Valuation
We determine fair prices for lease extensions using statutory and informal methods. Our valuations consider remaining lease length and ground rent. Provides clarity for leaseholders seeking extended terms.
People
Ian Lee
Managing Director and Co-Founder
Fellow of RICS with 30 years' experience. Chairman of Portsmouth Property Association. Specialises in residential surveys and valuations. Provides technical leadership and client guidance.
Chris Green
Director and Co-Founder
Associate RICS member with 30 years in property. Completed level 6 Diploma in Residential Survey. Past Chairman of Portsmouth Property Association. Focuses on client relationships and technical standards.
Daryn Brewer
Co Founder, HMO Expert
Award-winning entrepreneur with property management expertise. Specialises in Houses in Multiple Occupation. Drives business development and commercial strategy.
Bryn Thomas
Residential Surveyor
RICS Associate with 20 years' experience across Sussex, Surrey, and Hampshire. Provides honest valuations for estate agents and solicitors. Known for client-focused approach.
Rob Graham
Residential Surveyor
RICS Associate with 5 years' surveying experience. Former property sales professional. Covers areas from Portsmouth to Ringwood. Specialises in residential valuations and defect analysis.
Questions
What types of surveys do you offer?
We provide RICS HomeBuyer Reports (Level 2), Building Surveys (Level 3), Drone Surveys, and specialist defect inspections for residential and commercial properties.
How do I choose the right survey?
Level 2 reports suit standard properties, while Level 3 surveys are recommended for older or complex buildings. Our team can advise based on property type and purchase intentions.
Are your valuations RICS-registered?
Yes, all valuations are conducted by RICS-registered professionals following strict standards for mortgage, probate, Help to Buy, and shared ownership purposes.
Do you serve areas outside Portsmouth?
We cover Hampshire, West Sussex, and the South Coast including Southampton, Chichester, Fareham, and the Solent region with local market expertise.
Can I discuss survey findings in person?
Yes, we offer face-to-face meetings or virtual consultations to explain reports thoroughly and address any property concerns.
How quickly do you complete reports?
Most surveys are completed within 3-5 working days. Urgent requests can often be accommodated with same-day or next-day turnaround options.
Reviews (2)
James Vaux Jsv
Apr 03, 2021
Report
Very pleased with the quality and speed of service by Cranes. Good, thorough and useful reports provided quickly and efficiently.
Laurence Watermeyer
Nov 07, 2020
Report
Grant provided an excellent service. He was very efficient, meticulous and professional. Would highly recommend.