What type of survey should you go for
A property survey (often referred to as a house or home survey) is a condition report produced by a qualified surveyor following a thorough inspection of the property. The surveyor inspects the property both internally and externally, reporting on all the main elements, highlighting any defects at the property and recording key issues for a potential purchaser. The report also provides advice on next steps.
It is important to consider which property survey is right for you and the property you are purchasing. The level and type of inspection you choose will determine how quickly you receive the survey, how much support you can expect from your surveyor, how intrusive the survey is and the level of detail in your report.
Choosing a survey shouldn’t be a daunting time for any buyer. Irrespective of which type of survey you decide to purchase, if issues are uncovered, you can obtain quotes for any necessary repairs before you purchase and even use this as a tool to negotiate the price you pay for the property. David Dalby of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) said: "By carrying out a survey, you'll be armed with information that puts you in a stronger position to decide whether to proceed with the purchase or negotiate a better deal.”
What are the main types of property surveys and what are the key differences?
There are several types of home survey for homebuyers to choose from, at Legal and General we offer:
RICS Survey Level 2 (previously known as HomeBuyers report)
You should choose a RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Home Survey Level 2 if you would like more extensive information when buying a conventional house, flat or bungalow, which is built from common building materials and is in reasonable condition, and you would like information and advice on construction, condition and repairs.
The Home Survey Level 2 uses a clear ‘traffic light’ ratings system to describe the condition rating of the property’s main features (such as glazing, roof, electrics, exterior..).
Price: from £498.90, get a free quote today.
Building Survey (survey level three)
The Building Survey (also known as a structural survey) is the most expensive type of survey, but it provides greater detail about the structure and fabric of the property. This report is specifically designed for houses that were built before 1850, are in poor condition, have been significantly altered or are particularly large. You’ll also want to choose this option if you’re planning major works on a property.
A Building Survey includes a thorough inspection of the property by a RICS qualified surveyor, a paper-based detailed report on a wide range of issues, details of serious risks and dangerous conditions and an outline of repair options and the likely consequences of inactivity
Price: from £1000, contact us for a free quote today.
What you’ll learn from your survey
Our surveyors work for you, not the mortgage lender, so you can trust their detailed report to fully equip you with everything you need to know before you commit to purchase.
Every penny counts when you’re buying your new home, investing in a survey protects you from any costly surprises.