When purchasing a property, one of the most crucial steps is obtaining a home survey.
Find out what our surveying experts have to say and read this comprehensive guide to walk you through the essentials of home surveys to help you make informed decisions during your property journey.
What is a home survey?
A home survey is a thorough inspection of a property conducted by a qualified surveyor. The resulting report provides valuable insights into the property's condition, highlighting potential issues that could influence your purchase decision or require future investment. It's an essential tool for avoiding unexpected repair costs and understanding the true value of your potential new home.
What does a home survey include?
Home surveys come in various types, such as the Home Survey Level 2 (formerly known as a HomeBuyer Report) and the Home Survey Level 3 (previously called a Building Survey). While the level of detail varies, these reports typically include:
- A description of the property's construction and condition on the inspection date
- Identification of urgent or serious problems
- Highlight of areas requiring further investigation
- Information on potentially dangerous issues
- Disclosure of potential defects before the transaction
Do I really need a home survey?
While not mandatory, a house survey is highly recommended. Consider this: would you buy a car without seeing its MOT certificate or service history? A survey provides professional insight into what is likely the most significant purchase of your life.
According to a recent study from the HomeOwners Alliance, one in three buyers saved money after completing a survey. 10% of those who had a survey done were able to renegotiate the sale’s price, and 9% got sellers to fix the issues that were raised in the survey.*
When should I get a home buyer's survey?
The ideal time to organise your survey is after your offer has been accepted and the mortgage company has completed their valuation (if applicable). This ensures you have enough time to review the survey results and take any necessary actions, such as renegotiating the price or agreeing on pre-completion works with the seller.
It's crucial to complete the survey before exchanging contracts to ensure you fully understand what you're committing to.
What's the difference between RICS Home Survey Level 2 and Level 3?
The main distinction lies in the depth of detail. A Level 3 survey provides more comprehensive information, including:
- An analysis of the property's construction and materials, including future performance predictions
- Identification of visible defects and potential hidden problems
- Outline of repair options with timelines and consequences of inaction
- Specific comments on energy efficiency
What’s the difference between a house survey and a mortgage valuation?
It’s important to remember that a mortgage lender’s valuation report is not a survey. It merely tells the lender whether or not the property offers reasonable security on the loan, and is primarily for the lender and not the customer. A RICS survey is for you, the customer, and will inform you, as the potential buyers, on the actual condition of the property. That’s vital information that can be invaluable during price negotiations, and will also help avoid expensive surprises after you’ve moved in.
When will I get my house survey report?
Typically, you'll receive your comprehensive report within a few days of the inspection. While it can theoretically take 7-10 days, this is a rarity.
Do I need a survey on a new build property?
For brand new properties purchased directly from a house builder, a snagging survey may suffice. However, for second-hand properties over 12 months old, a traditional survey is still recommended.
Do I need a survey when buying in Scotland?
The buying process in Scotland is different and sellers are required to produce and give a potential buyer a Home Report. This is a report that’s prepared by an independent member of RICS and consists of:
- A single survey
- An energy report
- A property questionnaire
How much does a home survey cost
Survey costs vary based on factors such as purchase price, property age, size, and complexity. For this reason, we recommend requesting an instant quote here.
How do I find a surveyor?
No need to look any further. We work together with Countrywide Home Surveys, one of the UK's largest and most trusted property surveying and valuation practices, and with over 400 RICS qualified surveyors employed across the UK, their local market knowledge is unparalleled.
