You should arrange a home survey as soon as your offer is accepted. Ideally, well before exchanging contracts.
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Our article will explain why the survey should be conducted quickly and we also cover the process in Scotland.
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The Best Time to Book a House Survey
You should have a home survey carried out once an offer has been accepted, as it demonstrates you are committed to the purchase. The longer it takes you to get a survey conducted means there is an extended home-buying process and an increased chance of gazumping.
Surveys can take between 1-8 hours to complete depending on the survey being carried out. You will typically have the report back within 3-7 working days.
For more information read: Who Arranges A House Survey?
When Do I Get a Survey if I’m Buying a House in Scotland?
In Scotland, the seller is responsible for organising a Home Report. They will have a survey conducted and provide the report to each prospective buyer. The property must be placed on the market within 12 weeks of the report's creation, but there is no expiry date on the report once the property is available for sale.
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Types of Home Surveys
A survey can save thousands of pounds in the long run by uncovering hidden repair costs that may arise later. The age and condition of the property will determine the type of survey required.
There are three main types of surveys:
RICS Level 1 Survey (previously Condition Report)
This is the most basic survey you can get and is a surface-level report of the condition of the property. It is ideal for properties less than 5 years old.
RICS Level 2 Survey (previously Homebuyers Report)
This is the next level and will provide a report on defects and more detail around the condition of the property. This survey is common for properties up to 50 years old.
RICS Level 3 Survey (previously Building Survey)
This is the most thorough report when buying a house and will provide details about the interior, exterior and structure of the property. It is suitable for properties older than 50 years.
Get Your Property Survey From Local Professionals
Compare My Move can match you with experienced local surveyors. Simply fill in our surveying comparison form to compare up to 6 quotes and save on your house survey costs. They can conduct Level 2 or a Level 3 Survey at your property. You’ll have the opportunity to discuss your criteria and choose the right surveyor.
To join our network, surveyors must pass our verification process. Surveyors must be regulated by RICS if they offer Home Surveys and Valuation Reports. Companies specialising in Snagging Surveys can be regulated by either RICS or the RPSA.
Did you know, as part of our Code of Practice that all partners must agree to, you will be contacted within 48 hours of being matched.
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FAQs
When do I get a survey if I am getting a mortgage?
If you offered the asking price or under, you should get a survey done before formally arranging your mortgage, to ensure you have all the correct information. If you offered over the asking price you should get your mortgage approved before getting a survey.
When do I get a survey if I’m a cash buyer?
You should book your survey as soon as possible, as cash-only properties can sometimes have issues such as damage to the property, structural concerns or invasive plants. Getting a survey done quickly helps you avoid wasting time on a property that may not be suitable and gives you the opportunity to negotiate if problems are found.
When do I get a survey if I’m buying a new build?
Many developers won’t allow a Snagging Survey until after contracts are exchanged or the purchase is complete. Booking this survey as soon as possible will allow you to have these issues addressed. Otherwise, the developer might shift responsibility onto you.
Can you exchange contracts before a house survey?
It is uncommon to have surveys at such a late stage because you are legally committed to the transaction. If the survey shows serious issues impacting the property valuation you can withdraw from the transaction but will face legal and financial implications.
