Guide to getting a house survey
While not mandatory, a house survey is highly recommended. It can help you spot potential issues and avoid unforeseen expenses. If you're unsure whether you need one, our guide is here to help. Learn more about the different types of surveys, their costs and benefits.
What is a house survey?
A house survey is an expert inspection of your property's conditions conducted by a surveyor. They'll survey your home and report any significant faults and necessary repairs.
Do I need a house survey?
A house survey isn't a legal requirement when buying a new home, but it is highly recommended. It can help you save money by spotting potential issues before purchasing the property. If the survey flags significant faults, you could renegotiate the selling price to account for the extra costs.
A house survey is particularly recommended if you're:
- Unsure about your property's structural conditions
- Buying an old property
- Buying a property with a thatched roof
- Buying a listed building
What types of surveys are there?
There are three types of home buyer surveys, with Level 1 being the most basic and Level 3 the most in-depth.
- Condition Survey (Level 1). A Level 1 Survey provides a general overview of the property’s condition. It includes a summary of risks to the building, people and grounds.
- Homebuyer Survey (Level 2). This is ideal for properties in reasonable condition or under 50 years old. It highlights issues such as damp and subsidence, points out anything that doesn't meet current building regulations and includes the surveyor's advice on repairs and maintenance.
- Building Survey (Level 3). A Building Survey (Full Structural Survey) provides an in-depth inspection of the property's structure and condition, including the surveyor's advice on maintenance. You can ask the surveyor for advice on timelines and costs for repairs.
How do I understand my survey report?
You'll receive a report after your surveyor conducts your property's inspection. They usually categorise their findings into three condition ratings:
- Condition Rating 1 – No repair needed
- Condition Rating 2 – Faults that need fixing but aren’t urgent
- Condition Rating 3 – Significant faults that need urgent repairing, replacing or investigating
If your surveyor has found issues with your property, you can discuss potential costs and timelines with them.
House surveys' average costs and timeframes
Costs and timeframes 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?
To get a house survey, you first need to find 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.
When booking your survey, remember to:
- Read the Terms of Engagement your surveyor gives you. This document outlines what they will and won't do.
- Ask your surveyor when they'll conduct the inspection and when you'll receive the report.
- Have direct contact with your surveyor so you can ask any questions.
Ensure you gather enough quotes upfront.
If you're getting on the property ladder, our guide to home buying has many tips to help you navigate this process. Buying your home with Barratt London means enjoying unique offers, including Deposit Boost, Part Exchange and Movemaker.
Visit or call our Sales Advisers today to reserve your perfect property from our range in London.
