Getting your home ready for a survey can feel overwhelming, but understanding the types of questions that may be asked and taking a few practical steps to prepare in advance can help the process run more smoothly.
One easy step you can take is to prepare your home ahead of time. No doubt you will want your home to be clean and tidy when the surveyor arrives, but it is also a good idea to declutter so they can easily access all the essential areas. Clearing items off windowsills, moving furniture away from walls, and making sure spaces such as lofts can be accessed will help the surveyor to efficiently navigate the property for their report.
So, what should you expect when you are expecting a surveyor?
What does a surveyor do?
The role of a surveyor is to inspect a property and identify any defects, existing concerns, as well as any issues that could arise later. They then compile a report for the buyer, outlining the condition of the home and providing helpful insight into the value of the property to support the buyer in making an informed decision about their purchase.
What happens during a home survey can vary depending on the type of survey the buyer has chosen and the property itself. In many cases, a Level 2 Home Survey, often known as a homebuyer report, is the most suitable option. This type of survey gives a clear overview of the property’s condition and flags any major issues, using a simple traffic light system based on a visual inspection.
For older, more unusual, or heavily modified homes, a Level 3 Home Survey, also called a building survey, may be recommended. This is a more detailed inspection that looks closely at the structure and overall condition of the property, both inside and out. The surveyor will check key areas such as windows, doors, the roof space, and any outbuildings, so it can take a few hours or longer for bigger or more complex properties. They will need access to all areas, including the garden and any additional buildings.
If you are arranging for a survey on a property you are hoping to buy, the most important thing you can do is check that the survey you are having is the right one for the property you are buying. However, if you are unsure, the team at SDL Surveying are happy to help advise you on which survey is best suited to your property.
What might a surveyor ask at a home survey?
When the surveyor arrives, they will likely ask questions relating directly to the sale of the property, such as confirming the correct purchase price or estimated value. They may also ask about the marketing of the property if it is being sold, for example how long it has been on the market and what the asking price was.
For rental or leasehold properties, they may ask about the current rent and estimated rent in buy to let cases, the type of tenancy, and details such as lease length, ground rent, and service charges.
Surveyors will often ask the person providing access additional questions where the information they hold might be incomplete or incorrect.
What is the age of the property?
Your surveyor may ask for information about the history of the property, such as its age, how long you have lived there, and what you originally paid for it.
Have you had any major renovations carried out?
To build a clear understanding of the structure and identify any potential problem areas, the surveyor will want to know if any major changes have been carried out, such as extensions or loft conversions, when these were completed, and whether the work was done with planning permission and in line with current building regulations.
Have you carried out any recent improvements?
If you have carried out recent improvements, such as replacing roofs, windows, bathrooms, or kitchens, or if the property includes features such as underfloor heating or insulation, your surveyor may invite you to share these details.
Do you have full access and keys to the entire property and any outbuildings?
The surveyor needs full access to all areas of the property and may also check features such as windows and door locks. They will likely ask for keys to sheds, garages, cellars, and any locked doors or windows.
Do you have the necessary certificates?
If you have carried out work that required planning permission or building regulation approval, your surveyor will likely ask if you have these documents. They may also request certificates for gas safety, electrical work, the boiler, and the EPC.
It can be helpful to gather necessary documents before the visit, as having these ready in advance can help speed up the process and make things run more smoothly. However, do not worry if you do not know all these details when asked.
What might a surveyor ask about rental or leasehold properties?
For rental or leasehold properties, they may ask about the current rent and estimated rent in buy to let cases, the type of tenancy, and details such as lease length, ground rent, and service charges.
Surveyors will often ask the person providing access additional questions where the information they hold may be incomplete or unclear. However, the access provider may not have this information to hand, and that is perfectly fine. Any missing information can be confirmed and gathered at a later stage through the appropriate channels.
What is the key takeaway?
Preparing for a home survey does not need to be complicated. By taking a little time in advance to make your home accessible, gathering any relevant information, and understanding the types of questions you may be asked, you can help ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible. Even if you do not have every answer or document ready, the survey is designed to provide clarity and support, helping everyone involved move forward with confidence.