A mortgage valuation is arranged by your lender to confirm the property is worth what you are paying. It is a basic check for the lender's benefit, not yours. It will not flag damp, structural problems, or needed repairs.
A survey is a more detailed inspection that you commission for your own benefit. It tells you what condition the property is in and highlights any problems you should know about before buying.
| Survey type | Best for | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 (Condition Report) | New builds, modern homes in good condition | £300 - £500 |
| Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report) | Standard properties built after 1930 | £400 - £700 |
| Level 3 (Building Survey) | Older, listed, or unusual properties | £600 - £1,500 |
Level 2 is the most popular choice and offers the best balance of detail and cost for standard residential properties.
- New build or modern property in good condition: Level 1 is usually sufficient.
- Standard property built after 1930: Level 2 is the most common choice.
- Older property (pre-1930), listed building, or unusual construction: Level 3 is strongly recommended.
- Major renovation planned: Level 3, plus consider specialist reports (damp survey, electrical survey).
Your options
- Renegotiate the price based on repair costs
- Ask the seller to fix the issues before completion
- Proceed with your eyes open
- Walk away before exchange at no cost
Common issues found
- Damp and timber defects
- Roof issues and missing tiles
- Outdated electrics or plumbing
- Subsidence or structural movement
Need advice on surveys?
We can recommend trusted surveyors in your area and help you understand what the results mean for your purchase.
Speak to us