Do I Really Need to Get a Survey?

"I'll skip the survey. The house looks fine."

Sometimes people say this because they're trying to save money. Sometimes it's because the property has recently been renovated. And sometimes it's because they assume the mortgage lender will tell them if there's anything wrong.

Unfortunately, that's not quite how it works.

While a survey isn't legally required when buying a property, it can be one of the most valuable investments you make during the purchase.

Isn't the Mortgage Valuation Enough?

This is probably the biggest misconception. If you're buying with a mortgage, your lender will usually arrange a valuation. However, that valuation is carried out for the lender's benefit, not yours.

Its purpose is simply to confirm that the property provides suitable security for the mortgage.

It is not a detailed inspection of the property's condition. So, although the valuation might identify obvious issues, it isn't designed to tell you whether the roof needs replacing or whether there's damp hiding behind freshly painted walls.

What Does a Survey Look For?

A survey is carried out specifically for you as the buyer. Depending on the type of survey you choose, it may identify issues such as:

• Damp.

• Subsidence.

• Structural movement.

• Roof defects.

• Timber decay.

• Electrical concerns.

• Drainage issues.

• Signs of previous alterations.

• General maintenance problems.

  
  

Some defects are obvious and others are not. A fresh coat of paint can hide quite a lot!

But It's a New Build…

Even brand-new properties can have defects. It's not unusual for buyers of new-build homes to commission a snagging survey to identify issues before or shortly after completion. Just because a property is new doesn't necessarily mean it's perfect.

What If I'm Buying an Older Property?

Generally speaking, the older the property, the more worthwhile a survey becomes. Older homes often have features and construction methods that require specialist consideration. However, that doesn't mean that you shouldn't buy them, it just means that it's sensible to understand their condition before you commit.

Can a Survey Save You Money?

Absolutely! A survey might identify issues that allow you to:

• Renegotiate the purchase price.

• Ask the seller to carry out repairs.

• Budget for future maintenance.

• Decide whether to proceed at all.

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In some cases, spending a few hundred pounds on a survey can save thousands later.

Does My Conveyancer Arrange the Survey?

Usually not. Your conveyancer deals with the legal aspects of the transaction. A surveyor assesses the physical condition of the property. Although the two processes run alongside each other, they serve completely different purposes.

So... Do You Really Need One?

No. A survey isn't compulsory. Plenty of buyers choose not to have one.

But the better question might be:

Can you afford not to?

For most people, buying a property is the biggest purchase they'll ever make.

Understanding what you're buying before you commit is rarely money wasted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a mortgage valuation the same as a survey?

No. A mortgage valuation is carried out for the lender, whereas a survey is carried out for you as the buyer.

What type of survey should I get?

This depends on factors such as the property's age, condition, and construction. A surveyor can advise which option is most appropriate.

Can I buy a house without a survey?

Yes. A survey isn't a legal requirement. However, many buyers choose to have one for peace of mind.

Will my conveyancer tell me if the property has structural problems?

Not usually. Your conveyancer investigates the legal title and documentation, whereas a surveyor assesses the physical condition of the property.

Is a survey worth the money?

In many cases, yes. Identifying significant issues before you exchange contracts can help you make informed decisions and potentially avoid expensive surprises later.

Final Thoughts

No one likes spending money unnecessarily, especially when you're already paying for legal fees, searches, mortgage costs, and moving expenses. But a survey isn't just another box to tick, it can be an opportunity to understand the condition of what could be the biggest purchase of your life. I regularly works alongside surveyors, mortgage brokers and estate agents throughout the conveyancing process. While your conveyancer will investigate the legal aspects of the property, a survey can provide valuable insight into its physical condition, helping you make an informed decision before you commit to the purchase.