Here’s a quick guide on what a Surveyor will do for you as part of your Home Buying Process. 

Please remember that we work with a number of Trusted Surveyors and would be more than happy to make a personalised recommendation based on your circumstances.

 

Valuation Survey for Mortgage Approval

If you’re getting a mortgage, your lender will require a valuation survey to confirm the property’s value matches the loan amount. This survey is mainly for the lender’s security, ensuring the property is worth what they’re lending to you.

 

Private Surveys to Protect Your Investment

Unlike a valuation survey, a private survey is for your benefit, giving you a deeper understanding of the property’s condition. It’s optional, but it can help you avoid unexpected costs down the line by spotting issues that might not be visible at first glance. This must be instructed and paid for by you, but we can help put you in touch with the right people.

 

The detail of the report will depend on the next two options. 

 

HomeBuyer Report

A HomeBuyer Report gives you more detail, examining things like structural concerns, necessary repairs, and potential risks to the property’s value. This survey is ideal for properties that are in generally good condition but might have hidden issues that need addressing.

 

Building Survey (Full Structural Survey)

A Building Survey, or full structural survey, is the most detailed option and is recommended for older, larger, or heavily modified homes. It covers everything accessible, assessing structural integrity and providing detailed repair estimates. This is the best choice if you’re buying a property that may need significant work.

 

Spotting Issues Early

A surveyor helps you identify potential problems like dampness, subsidence, or roof issues, allowing you to make an informed decision—or even negotiate the asking price if costly repairs are needed.

 

Gaining Peace of Mind

With a private survey, you’ll know exactly what you’re buying, reducing the risk of costly surprises after you move in. A surveyor’s impartial assessment gives you the confidence to proceed, fully informed.

 

Guidance on Next Steps

If the survey uncovers issues, your surveyor can advise on further inspections or repairs. This guidance can be especially valuable if the property requires specialised attention or renovations.

 

Understanding Survey Costs

While lenders arrange and pay for the valuation survey, you’ll be responsible for the cost of any private survey. Prices vary depending on the survey type and property size—ranging from a few hundred pounds for basic reports to over a thousand for a full Building Survey.

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Whilst we are not Surveyors and therefore cannot do the survey for you, we can put you in touch with some lovely people that can. If you need an introduction please don’t hesitate to get in touch. 

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