Types of Home Surveys

When you’re buying a home in the UK, a home survey can help you avoid unexpected surprises down the line. But not all surveys are the same. Here are the main types you’ll come across:

Condition Report (Level 1) – The most basic survey, ideal for newer homes in good condition. It gives a snapshot of the property’s state but doesn’t go into much detail.

HomeBuyer Report (Level 2) – This is the most popular choice for conventional properties. It highlights major issues, like damp or subsidence, and can include a valuation if requested.

Building Survey (Level 3) – The most comprehensive option, suitable for older, larger, or more complex properties. It covers the structure and condition in detail and flags any big repair jobs.

Survey Process Explained

Here’s how the home survey typically unfolds:

1. Booking – Once your offer is accepted, you or your lender can arrange a survey through a qualified surveyor (usually a RICSaccredited professional).
2. Inspection – The surveyor visits the property and conducts a detailed inspection based on the survey level you’ve chosen.
3. Report Delivery – Within a few days to a couple of weeks, you’ll get the written report outlining any issues.

You won’t usually need to be there for the survey — but you’ll want to read the results carefully once it lands in your inbox

Interpreting Survey Results

So, your survey’s in. Now what?

Start by identifying whether any flagged issues are urgent or expensive to fix. Your report might highlight:

  • Damp and mould
  • Structural cracks
  • Roof damage
  • Faulty wiring or plumbing
  • Risk of subsidence or flooding

Some of these issues can be dealbreakers. Others might just mean budgeting for future repairs.

It’s a good idea to discuss the report with your surveyor (or your mortgage broker) if anything’s unclear. You may even want to get quotes from builders if repairs are needed — especially before you commit to the purchase.

Next Steps After the Survey

If the survey reveals something worrying, don’t panic. You’ve got options:

  • Renegotiate the price – If repairs are needed, you might be able to lower your offer.
  • Request the seller fixes it – You could ask for the seller to make repairs before the sale goes through.
  • Walk away – If the problems are too big or costly, pulling out might be the smart move.

Whatever the outcome, a survey gives you peace of mind and helps you make an informed decision. After all, buying a home is a big deal — and no one wants surprises after moving day.

Take the hassle out with Habito Plus

Need a hand with your home survey? Habito Plus (our paid-for home-buying service) can handle it for you. It’s our homebuying service that takes care of all the tricky bits — from surveys and legal work to mortgage help — all under one roof. We’ll sort the survey and chase the paperwork, so you don’t have to.

At Habito, H.O.M.E isn’t just where you live. It’s what we do.

If you’ve got questions about the survey process or how it affects your mortgage options, we’re here to help.

‍