What are Home Buyer Surveys?

Buying a home is a big step and can be overwhelming, but conducting a home-buying survey can help you make an informed decision and can actually save you money in the long run by preventing you from discovering costly issues on moving in. In this guide, we will walk you through the survey for buying a home for residential properties in the uk.

What is a Survey for Buying a Home?

A home buying survey is a report that provides a detailed analysis of the condition of a property. It is usually carried out by a qualified surveyor and can be helpful in identifying any potential issues with the property before you make your purchase. A home buying survey is different to a mortgage valuation survey, which is solely for the lender to gain assurance that the property is worth what you are paying for it.

What are the Types of House Survey?

There are three main types of home buying surveys in the UK: the Level 1 Condition Report, the Level 2 HomeBuyer Report, and the Level 3 Building Survey.

• • • RICS Level 1 – This is the most basic type of survey and is suitable for new-build properties or properties that are in a good state of repair. It provides a ‘traffic light’ rating system to highlight any areas of risk and legal issues. This survey typically costs upwards of £400.
    • RICS Level 2 – This is a more detailed survey that provides an overall picture of the property’s condition. It is suitable for properties that are less than 100 years old and in reasonable condition. The report includes a valuation and detail on possible issues including structural issues and damp. This survey typically costs upwards of £500.
    • RICS Level 3 – This is the most comprehensive type of survey and is suitable for older or unconventional properties, or those in need of significant repair or renovation. It provides a detailed analysis of the property’s construction and condition, as well as recommendations for any repairs that may be required. This survey typically costs upwards of £600.
    • New Build Snagging Survey – This is the survey typically chosen for new build properties and identifies any faults with the build. These issues should then be fixed by your builder before you move in. This survey typically costs around £300

How Much Does a House Survey Cost

The average cost of a house survey are outlined above, however costs will vary according to the property type and size.

Do I Really Need a Full House Survey?

House surveys are optional, but it is recommended to get one, especially on an older property, because it can point out issues that might prove expensive if left. Also, if a survey finds issues that cost £5,000 to fix, it is viable to offer £5,000 lower for the property

What is the Difference Between House Survey and Mortgage Valuations

A mortgage valuation survey is just that, a valuation. The purpose is so the lender has assurance the property is worth what you are paying for it. The lender will usually commission a valuation survey before issuing your mortgage offer. It does not point out any defects or issues you may need to rectify.  A mortgage valuation typically costs upwards of £250, although some lenders do offer the valuation free with the mortgage

How Do I Find a Surveyor

Once you have decided which type of survey you need, it’s time to find a surveyor. It’s important to choose a surveyor who is a member of a professional body, such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), as this will ensure that they are qualified and regulated.

How Long Does a House Survey Take?

A survey can take anywhere from an hour to eight hours, depending on the level of survey chosen. During the survey, the surveyor will inspect the property and provide you with a report. Make sure you read this report carefully, as it will provide you with valuable information about the property’s condition and any repairs that may be required. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact the surveyor for clarification.

When Will I Get My Home Survey? 

You ill usually get your home survey report within a week or two of the survey taking place.

Do I Need a House Survey For a New Build?

It is not mandatory to get a survey on a newly built property and the builder should issue a 10 year warranty. However, a snagging survey will give you peace of mind and if it does uncover issues, it may mean you can get your builder to rectify them before you move in. 

Do You Need a Survey to Sell Your House?

You don’t need a survey to sell your house, it is the responsibility of the buyer to get a survey. However, it is your responsibility to provide and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which will give your property an energy efficiency rating of A to G.

What to do if your Survey Uncovers Problems?

If your survey uncovers issues, you can ask the surveyor to expand on the detail in the report and also get specialist surveys to find out more about the nature of the problem and the cost to fix. If a problem is uncovered, you can also use the survey to go back to the estate agent and negotiate on the price of the property. Common issues include problems with the roof, electrics. Central heating system, structure and damp.

Do you actually need a survey for buying a home?

In summary, a home buying survey is an important part of the home buying process in the UK. It can provide you with valuable information about the property’s condition and any repairs that may be required, helping you make an informed decision. Remember to choose a qualified surveyor, inform the seller that you intend to have a survey carried out, and read the report carefully. Check out our guide to home buyer surveys 

Good luck with your home-buying journey!