Is It Worth Getting a Survey When You Buy a Home?

While a professional survey is not a legal requirement, many people wouldn’t dream of buying a property without one. 

But not everyone is convinced – there are plenty of sceptics (especially online) who question their worth. 

So are surveys really worth it? And what do homebuyers need to know if they do decide to get one? Let’s take a look. 

What is a survey?  

A professional survey is a report on the condition of the property that highlights any problems, structural issues and potential risks. Some surveys also give advice on how to manage or repair defects. 

There are different types of surveys, depending on the level of detail you require, and costs vary accordingly. 

These include a Level 1 (basic condition report), a Level 2 (mid-level survey that goes into more detail) and a Level 3 (ideal for older or less conventional properties). 

You can also get a snagging survey if you’re buying a new-build. 

What do the critics say? 

Not everyone is a fan of surveys. Some people argue that they are either too vague or too laden with disclaimers to be helpful. And, obviously, they only offer insight into the property's current condition; problems can still crop up later. 

And when you’re facing a raft of costs in the homebuying process, it can be tempting to save the cash and skip the survey. 

But in our professional opinion, unless you’re a construction expert, it’s always worth getting one. 

Buying a home is probably the biggest transaction of your life. Why not arm yourself with as much information as possible? 

Even when a survey doesn’t flag up any serious issues, many homebuyers find them useful in highlighting areas of the property that may need work over time (especially if you’re buying a doer-upper). 

Other important things to know about surveys 

• It’s the buyer’s responsibility to commission the survey. The agent and owner will facilitate giving the surveyor access to the property. 

• It’s worth asking friends and family to recommend a good, local surveyor at the start of your property search. Fees can vary, so do your research, but don’t always assume the cheapest is the best. 

• Book the survey promptly after your offer is accepted (this shows the seller you’re serious about the transaction and prevents delays). 

• Some lenders insist you get a survey as part of your mortgage requirements. The lender will also conduct their own property valuation. This is not a survey and only considers if the property is worth the loan amount. 

• Always check that your surveyor is accredited with either the Royal Institute for Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Residential Property Surveyors Association. 

For more information about buying a home or insight into what’s available on the market right now, get in touch with us today.