Who Organises a Survey When Buying a House

Who Organises a Survey When Buying a House

When buying a home in the UK, one of the most important steps in the process is arranging a property survey. A survey helps you understand the true condition of the property and highlights any structural issues, defects or areas requiring repair. Yet many buyers, particularly first timers, are unsure who is responsible for organising the survey and when it should be done. Understanding how surveys fit into the buying process and who takes charge of them is crucial for making informed decisions and protecting your investment.

The Buyer’s Responsibility

In most cases, it is the buyer who arranges the survey. Although the seller will have provided information about the property through documents such as the property information form and the Energy Performance Certificate, it is down to the buyer to carry out their own due diligence. This includes commissioning a survey to independently assess the condition of the building. A survey is not compulsory, but it is strongly advised, especially with older homes, properties that have been extended or where visible issues raise concerns during viewings.

Once an offer has been accepted and the purchase is progressing, the buyer can instruct a surveyor to carry out the inspection. The cost, type of survey and who you choose to carry it out is entirely up to you, though it is sensible to use a surveyor who is regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. The survey is carried out for your benefit and the report is addressed to you as the client. If the report reveals serious problems, it can influence your decision to proceed with the purchase or give you grounds to renegotiate the price.

Types of Property Survey

There are different types of surveys available depending on the nature of the property and your level of concern. The most basic is a Condition Report, which gives a summary of the property’s state but does not go into great depth. A HomeBuyer Report is more detailed and includes advice on defects, repairs and maintenance. The most comprehensive is a Building Survey, sometimes referred to as a full structural survey, which is suitable for older properties, listed buildings or homes that have undergone major alterations.

If you are buying with a mortgage, your lender may also carry out a valuation survey. This is not the same as a property survey and is carried out purely for the lender’s benefit to assess the value of the home for loan purposes. It is often very limited in scope and may not identify structural issues. Buyers should not rely on the mortgage valuation alone and are strongly advised to arrange their own survey for peace of mind.

When to Arrange the Survey

The ideal time to organise the survey is after your offer has been accepted but before contracts are exchanged. This window allows you to identify any significant issues and make informed decisions before being legally committed to the purchase. Most buyers instruct a surveyor shortly after the offer is accepted, allowing a couple of weeks for the inspection to take place and the report to be returned. It is important not to delay this step, as discovering serious problems later in the process can lead to renegotiation, delays or even withdrawal from the purchase.

In some cases, the surveyor may recommend further investigations, such as a damp specialist, structural engineer or roof inspection. Acting promptly allows you to follow up on these recommendations and reach a clear understanding of the property’s condition before committing fully to the purchase.

How to Choose a Surveyor

It is the buyer’s job to select a qualified surveyor and instruct them directly. Most estate agents will be able to recommend local surveyors, but you are under no obligation to use their suggestion. Many buyers choose their own surveyor independently or through an online comparison service. It is essential to ensure the surveyor is regulated by RICS and has experience with the type of property you are buying. Before booking, you should discuss the level of survey required and confirm the cost, timescale and what will be included in the report.

The surveyor will typically visit the property for a few hours, depending on the type of survey and size of the home. They will then compile a written report which is sent to you directly. You can discuss the findings with the surveyor if you have questions or need further explanation.

Why Surveys Matter

Organising a property survey is a key part of buying a house and can save you thousands of pounds in the long run. It can reveal hidden problems such as subsidence, damp, roof damage, woodworm or structural movement. Without a survey, you risk buying a home that needs costly repairs or urgent work. A well timed survey allows you to factor repair costs into your offer or walk away if the property proves to be unsuitable. It also gives you greater confidence in your purchase and helps ensure there are no unpleasant surprises after you move in.

Final Thoughts

When buying a house in the UK, the responsibility for arranging a survey falls to the buyer. It is not something done by the seller or the mortgage lender and should be considered an essential part of your due diligence. By choosing a qualified surveyor and commissioning the right type of report, you can gain a clear understanding of the property’s condition and make informed decisions about how to proceed. Organising a survey early in the process gives you time to react to any issues and ensures your investment is based on solid foundations.