A survey is one of the first steps in the home-buying process. It provides a clear insight into the property's condition and can uncover issues that give you leverage during negotiations.
In 2025, home surveys cost between £380 and £630 on average, with costs influenced by the property price, location, and survey type. Since payment is usually required upfront, it's important to factor this cost into your budget early on.
Using our own data, we break down the costs you need to know, so you have an idea of how much you can expect to pay for your survey.
What Is A Home Survey?
Home surveys provide homebuyers with a general overview of a property’s condition. The aim is to inform buyers of any potential concerns and advise on possible next steps in the transaction.
Different types of surveys determine the amount of detail provided, but all surveys consist of two parts: the inspection and the report.
Read more about what a surveyor does.
Home Survey Costs by Type
The type of survey you receive will impact the total cost and is determined by the property's age, value, and location.
Here is a breakdown of the survey types and their costs:
| Survey Type | Also Known As | Average Cost | Suitable For | Time Taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RICS Level 1 Home Survey | Condition Report | £380 | Properties under 5 years old | 1-2 hours |
| RICS Level 2 Home Survey | Homebuyers Report | £445 | Properties under 50 years old, buildings with standard construction | 2-4 hours |
| RICS Level 3 Home Survey | Building Survey | £630 | Properties over 50 years old, historical buildings, non-standard construction | 4-8 hours |
| Snagging Survey | Snagging List | £375 | New build properties | 3-6 hours |
In most parts of the UK, the buyer books their survey. However, those buying in Scotland will have access to a Home Report, which is equivalent to the Level 2 and is arranged by the seller.
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Home Survey Costs by Property Price
| Property Value | Level 2 Survey Cost | Level 3 Survey Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Up to £200,000 | £376 - £550 | £450 - £699 |
| £200,000 - £300,000 | £388 - £597 | £477 - £783 |
| £300,000 - £400,000 | £409 - £637 | £515 - £799 |
| £400,000 - £500,000 | £434 - £656 | £517 - £883 |
| £500,000 - £600,000 | £478 - £757 | £597 - £947 |
| £600,000+ | £579 - £930 | £778 - £1,436 |
Our data shows that those buying a property at the £292,000 average are more likely to have a Level 2 Survey, with 80% of users choosing this option and 20% booking a Level 3.
Home Survey Costs by Region
| Region | Average Survey Cost |
|---|---|
| North West | £432 |
| North East | £382 |
| South West | £558 |
| South East | £546 |
| East Midlands | £429 |
| West Midlands | £448 |
| Yorkshire and the Humber | £436 |
| East of England | £473 |
| Wales | £480 |
| Scotland | £410 |
As the most expensive region outside London, you could assume that the South East has the highest survey costs. However, since smaller properties such as 1 or 2-bed flats are the most common property type here, the average cost is reduced.
When it comes to the highest survey costs, South West buyers are more likely to purchase 3 and 4-bed houses, resulting in an increased cost due to the larger property size.
London Survey Costs
| Survey Type | Average Survey Cost |
|---|---|
| RICS Level 2 Home Survey | £445 |
| RICS Level 3 Home Survey | £629 |
The most popular types of survey in London are the Level 2 and 3 Home Surveys, making up over 50% of enquiries among our users, thanks to the amount of detail offered in the reports.
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Is a Home Survey Worth the Cost?
Yes, a home survey is worth it. It may feel like another upfront cost, but they can identify unexpected issues and potentially save you thousands in repairs. Looking at a sample report before you book your survey will give you an idea of what to expect.
Follow our tips to ensure you get the most value from your survey without overspending:
- Choose the right survey level: Don’t pay for a more detailed report than your property needs. A Level 2 Survey is enough for most modern homes.
- Compare quotes: Get at least 3–6 quotes from different companies, not just the ones recommended by your lender or estate agent.
- Check credentials: Confirm they are RICS-registered (look for MRICS or FRICS after their name) so the survey meets industry standards.
- Speak with the surveyor: Ask if they can discuss their findings to help you with the next steps.
View a RICS Level 2 Home Survey example to see what’s typically included.
Find a Surveyor
With Compare My Move, you can compare up to 6 quotes from trusted local surveyors. Fill out our surveying comparison form and you can save up to 70% on your surveying fees.
All partners have passed our verification process. Firms offering Home Surveys or Valuation Reports are RICS-registered. Those specialising in Snagging may be regulated by RICS or the RPSA.
*Based on the average service costs for Compare My Move users. See how our data works.
FAQs
What is the Difference Between a Mortgage Valuation and a Survey?
Mortgage valuations are arranged by the mortgage lender and provide an estimated market value to ensure the property is worth the risk on their side. Surveys, on the other hand, involve an inspection and report on the property’s condition and benefit the buyer.
Those buying with a mortgage will require both a mortgage valuation and a property survey.
What Happens After a Home Survey?
Following the survey inspection, your surveyor will publish their findings in a written report. Depending on the type of survey you’ve had, the time it takes to receive the report can vary.
Once you’ve read through the report, you can use the information to decide whether to proceed with the transaction, renegotiate your offer, or withdraw from the transaction.
Who Covers the Cost if Problems are Found?
If you take your surveyor’s advice and have a follow-up inspection, you'll have to cover the added costs. You can also ask the seller if they’re willing to take money off your original offer to cover any repair work.
How Much are House Valuations?
House valuations cost around £452 based on the £292,000 average UK property price. The cost varies depending on the property price, size, and location.
