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Sometimes The Various Home Survey Options Can Be Confusing

If you’re purchasing a property, you’ll almost certainly have received a recommendation to carry out a survey on your desired new home. However, if you’re a first-time buyer, (or even if you haven’t purchased a home for some time), you may find the various survey options confusing. That’s why our knowledgeable team at Warren Powell-Richards have put together this expert guide to the most commonly performed home survey types.

What Are Home Surveys?

Residential surveys are detailed inspections that determine the condition of a property. Carried out by a professional surveyor, the survey reports any structural issues like subsidence or unstable walls, while also highlighting any significant alterations or repairs that are needed, like fixing the chimney or roof. The two residential survey types that are most frequently requested are the Building Survey and HomeBuyer Report.

What Are Building Surveys?

Building Surveys are a comprehensive form of survey. More costly than the HomeBuyer report, it’s mostly recommended for listed properties, older homes, or if you plan to carry out major refurbishment or rebuild projects. These reports include all the information supplied in the HomeBuyer Report, except a market valuation, however, it also includes an in-depth analysis of the condition of the property, including an evaluation of the loft and basement (where applicable), and checks behind the walls, ceilings, and floors.

These survey reports include advice about maintenance options, repairs, and defects, including estimated costs and timings, and the possible consequences if the recommended works aren’t completed.

What Are HomeBuyer Reports?

HomeBuyer Reports are detailed surveys which are performed by a surveyor with RICS qualifications. The surveyor attends the property and carries out a visual inspection in detail before showing you their report which uses a “traffic-light” key as well as comments so it’s easy to identify any worrying issues quickly.

Not only does the report include comments about the property’s overall condition, it also highlights any significant obvious problems like subsidence or rot. The surveyor also gives their market valuation of the property as well as the insurance rebuild cost and advice about any defects that could impact the property’s value.

What Are Mortgage Surveys?

If you’re buying your new home with a mortgage, your lender will require a mortgage survey, or valuation, to be carried out. Despite its name, it isn’t actually a survey. Rather, it’s a property overview that assesses its value to determine whether the property represents sufficient loan security.

Must I Arrange A Survey For My Chosen Property?

Property surveys are optional, but they help you to avoid unwanted and costly surprises while giving you complete peace of mind in your purchase. Since you’re spending a huge amount on your new home, spending a little more on getting a survey carried out is a good investment.

The team at Warren Powell-Richards especially recommend surveys to be performed if:

• You’ve got specific concerns about any element of your desired property.
• You’re unsure about the condition of the property.
• You’re keen to purchase a property that is unusual, old or a listed building.
• Your chosen property is timber-framed or has a thatched roof.

Our experienced team can help you determine the right kind of survey for you, so if you’re buying a home and need some expert advice, email us today at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or pop into one of our offices.