There are different types of house survey available, at different prices. We discuss what they are, and when you should use them.
- Condition Report (RICS Level 1 Home Survey)
This is the most basic type of house survey and is used for new homes or properties known to be in good condition. This type of survey gives an overview of the property’s condition, focusing on visible problems like damp or structural issues. It highlights urgent issues, but doesn’t go into detail.
- HomeBuyer Report (RICS Level 2 Home Survey)
This is a more detailed survey than the Condition Report, but less comprehensive than the full Building Survey. It’s probably the most common type of survey and it’s recommended for properties that are in reasonable condition. The survey looks at the structure of the property, including walls, roof, windows, and plumbing, and offers advice on maintenance or repairs. The report also identifies urgent problems that might affect the property’s value or safety (e.g., damp or subsidence). It does not usually include detailed inspection of parts of the property that are hidden, e.g. floorboards.
- Building Survey or Full Structural Survey (RICS Level 3 Home Survey)
This is the most comprehensive and detailed survey. It’s designed to provide an in-depth look at the property’s structure and condition, identifying current or potential issues. It’s a good idea to have one of these for older properties, buildings in need of renovation, or unique properties with special features. It’s also recommended for properties where major alterations or renovations are planned.
The survey includes a thorough examination of the property. It looks at the structure, materials, and any defects, and may provide specific advice on repairs or improvements. It may also give estimates of repair costs. A Building Survey can inspect parts of the property that might otherwise remain hidden, so for instance, floorboards might be taken up to check for damp or woodworm.
In addition, there are the following types of surveys:
Valuation Survey
This is taken out by the lender to assess the market value of the property, and check that it is worth the price the buyer is paying, in case the lender needs to repossess the property in the future. It doesn’t provide a full assessment of the property’s condition but looks at factors affecting value, such as the location, apparent condition and recent sales of similar properties.
Specialist Surveys
These are tailored to particular problems or types of property. They might be taken out after a Building Survey has highlighted an issue or recommended further action. Surveys might focus on the structure of the house, any damp issues, timber and pests. Specialist companies will undertake each type of survey.
There is no legal requirement to get a survey on your new home, but we would recommend you do so. Prices vary between a few hundred pounds for a basic survey on a small, simple home to over £1,000 for a more extensive survey. But should problems be unearthed, you might be able to negotiate on price with the vendor, or indeed, if the problems are too significant, walk away from the sale, knowing that whilst you have spent money, you might be saving yourself money (and stress) in the long-term.
Further reading
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10 January 2025
For more information, call into our Keighley or Skipton office or contact Declan Hayes on 01756 692888 or declan.hayes@awbclaw.co.uk
