Do I really need a home survey? What every buyer should know

If you’re buying a home, especially for the first time, you’re probably asking yourself; Do I really need a survey? After all, it’s another cost on an already long list which includes mortgage fees, solicitor fees, moving costs, and so on.

But here’s the thing, skipping a survey could cost you thousands down the line. Let’s break down exactly what a survey is, what it does, and how to know if you need one.

What is a Home Survey?

A home survey is an expert inspection of a property’s condition, carried out by a qualified surveyor. Think of them like the property’s doctor, they spot issues that aren’t always visible to the untrained eye.

Surveys vary in depth:

  • Level 1 (Condition Report): The most basic. Flags major issues but doesn’t go into detail.

  • Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report): Most popular. Checks visible parts of the home and flags issues like damp, subsidence or roof damage.

  • Level 3 (Building Survey): The most thorough. Recommended for older or unusual properties, or if you’re planning renovations.

Why Bother?

It’s simple, protection. A good survey can reveal serious structural issues, hidden damp, roof problems, dodgy electrics—things that could cost a fortune later.

Example: A buyer skips a £500 survey, only to find after moving in that the property has subsidence, costing £15,000 to fix. Ouch.

How Surveys Save You Money

You can use the findings to:

  • Renegotiate the price

  • Ask the seller to fix issues before completion

  • Budget accurately for repairs

  • Walk away from a money pit

When You Might Skip One

The only time it might be okay to skip a survey is if:

  • It’s a new build with a valid warranty

  • You’ve had a survey done recently and are buying from someone you trust (e.g. a family member)

But even then, it’s a gamble.

Takeaway: Surveys are not a “nice to have”, they’re a smart investment. They give you peace of mind, protect your money, and help you make decisions with your eyes wide open.

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The different types of property surveys explained and which one you need

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