If the offer on your new home has been accepted, you may be wondering whether you need a house survey. While this is not mandatory, it can help you spot issues and avoid unforeseen expenses further down the line. Learn more about what a house survey is, its costs and timeframes and how it differs from a mortgage valuation in our guide.
What is a house survey?
A house survey is an expert inspection of your property's conditions conducted by a surveyor. They'll report any significant faults and provide recommendations on what needs fixing. They’ll also include a commentary on the property, from the wall and roof type to flooring and glazing.
Do I need to get a house survey?
Getting a house survey is highly recommended. If it flags significant faults, you could renegotiate the selling price to account for the extra costs.
A house survey is particularly useful if you're:
• Unsure about your property's structural conditions
• Buying an old property
• Buying a property with a thatched roof or timber frame
• Buying a listed building
Types of house survey
There are three types of house surveys. Level 1 is the most basic, while Level 3 is the most detailed.
• Condition Survey (Level 1). A Level 1 Survey gives a general overview of the property’s conditions. It includes a risk assessment of the building and grounds.
• Homebuyer Survey (Level 2). Ideal for properties under 50 years old, a Level 2 Survey highlights issues like dampness and subsidence and identifies anything that doesn’t meet building regulations. It also includes the surveyor’s advice on repairs and maintenance.
• Building Survey (Level 3). A Building Survey provides an in-depth inspection of the property's structure and conditions, including the surveyor's advice on maintenance.
How to understand your survey report
The surveyor’s report is usually split into three condition ratings:
1. Condition Rating 1 – No repair needed
2. Condition Rating 2 – Faults that need fixing but aren’t urgent
3. Condition Rating 3 – Significant faults that need urgent repairing, replacing or investigating
House survey average costs and timeframes
The costs and timeframes of your house survey depend on the type of property and survey you choose.
| Type of survey | Timeframe | Costs |
| Level 1 | Up to 1 hour | Between £300 and £900 |
| Level 2 | Up to 4 hours | Between £400 and £1,000 |
| Level 3 |
Up to a day
|
Between £630 and £1,500 |
How do I get a house survey?
The first step to getting a house survey is finding a surveyor. Ensure they're registered with either RICS or RPSA.
• RICS – Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. RICS surveyors provide all three survey levels.
• RPSA – Residential Property Surveyors Association. RPSA surveyors provide Level 2 and Level 3 surveys.
We recommend gathering enough quotes upfront to find the best deal for your circumstances. In addition, remember to:
• Read your surveyor’s Terms and Conditions
• Find out when they’ll carry out the survey and when the report will be issued
• Stay in touch with your surveyor to ask any questions you may have
The difference between a house survey and a mortgage valuation
A mortgage valuation provides an estimate of your property’s value and is carried out by the mortgage lender. This is so they can ensure it’s safe enough to lend you the money.
Looking to buy your new home? Our homebuying guide has plenty of tips for a hassle-free process.
Explore our brand-new, energy-efficient homes across the UK and fantastic homebuying offers. Contact our Sales Advisers today to get started.
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