Property surveys are not a legal requirement, but are highly recommended. Conducted by chartered surveyors, they offer crucial information for buyers.
Buying a home is expensive, and some people try to cut costs by skipping the survey, but this can backfire, especially if severe structural problems are present, costing thousands to repair.
Below, we look at why you should find a surveyor when buying a house and which survey you should choose.
What is a Property Survey?
A home survey provides buyers with information on the property and the surrounding area, so they can make informed decisions going forward.
It is split into two sections: the inspection and report, which is carried out by a chartered surveyor.
You want to make sure that the home is worth the money, and surveyors can identify defects that will take time and money to repair.
Your survey will highlight the following:
Urgent costly repairs
Overpaying for your home
Risk of falling into negative equity
Do I Really Need a Property Survey?
Surveys highlight hidden defects or developing problems that may lead to much bigger and costly concerns.
If issues are found and likely to be costly to fix, you can ask if the seller is willing to accept less.
Issues found in a survey include (but are not limited to):
Asbestos
Damp
Electrical issues
Faulty drainpipes
Flat roofing
Infestation
Insulation
Invasive plants
Roof issues
Structural movement
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What Type of Survey Do I Need?
RICS Level 1 Home Survey
The RICS Level 1 Home Survey, previously known as a Condition Report, is the most basic option. This is best suited for newer, conventional properties that are less than 5 years old with no previous issues. There is not a lot of detail in this report, it will simply provide an overview.
RICS Level 2 Home Survey
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey, previously known as a Homebuyers Report, is suited to homes built less than 50 years ago. Recommended for modern properties in good condition, this survey is ideal for conventional homes built of common materials without major damage or alterations.
The surveyor will review the interior and exterior of the home, including outhouses, garages, and conservatories. Buyers are given a report that identifies urgent repairs and what work is needed on the home.
RICS Level 3 Home Survey
The RICS Level 3 Home Survey, previously known as a Building Survey, is the most in-depth survey suited for older and historical properties. It is also recommended for homes that are "unusual" or have had a large amount of work completed on them.
It is the most expensive survey and the one with the most information and detail.
Snagging Survey
This is designed as a survey for newly built homes. A surveyor will review the home, ensuring it has been completed to a high standard. The developers can then rectify any issues found in the report.
How Much Do Surveys Cost?
| Survey Type | Average Surveyor Fee |
|---|---|
| New Build Snagging List | £300 - £600 |
| RICS Level 1 Survey | £380 |
| RICS Level 2 Survey | £500 |
| RICS Level 3 Survey | £800 |
Read more on survey costs.
Are Mortgage Valuations the Same as Valuation Surveys?
No, mortgage valuations and valuation surveys are not the same.
A mortgage valuation benefits the lender and confirms that the property is worth the financial risk.
On the other hand, valuation surveys aim to provide buyers with a basic overview of a property and determine a valuation based on the property’s condition and location.
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How Do I Arrange a Survey
You should arrange your survey once your offer has been accepted.
You can find surveyors by comparing local firms or asking friends and family for recommendations. If you are unsure which survey you need, you can discuss this when obtaining quotes from surveyors.
Once booked, your surveyor will obtain access to the property via the estate agent.
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Compare My Move will match you with up to 6 surveyors in your area. Fill out our surveying comparison form to compare quotes and save up to 70% on your surveying fees.
All partners must pass a strict verification process before joining our network. For surveyors, this includes being regulated by RICS to ensure they work to industry standards.
*Based on the average service costs for Compare My Move users and our own research. See how our data works.
