If you've decided to commission a building survey, you might be wondering what happens next. This guide walks you through the entire process.

Before the Survey

Booking

When you contact a surveyor, they'll need:

  • The property address
  • Type of property (house, flat, etc.)
  • Approximate age and size
  • Your preferred dates
  • Any specific concerns you have

The surveyor should provide a clear quote and timeline before you commit.

Access Arrangements

The surveyor will need access to:

  • All rooms and spaces
  • Loft/attic space (with ladder if possible)
  • Garage and outbuildings
  • Gardens and grounds

Your estate agent or the seller's solicitor typically arranges this.

The Inspection Day

What the Surveyor Does

A building survey inspection typically takes 2-4 hours for an average house. The surveyor will:

  1. External inspection - Roof, walls, windows, drainage
  2. Internal inspection - Every accessible room, ceilings, floors, walls
  3. Services check - Visual inspection of electrics, plumbing, heating
  4. Roof space - Timbers, insulation, any issues
  5. Outbuildings - Garages, sheds, extensions

What They Can't Do

Surveyors work within limitations:

  • They cannot move furniture or stored items
  • They don't test services (that requires specialists)
  • They can't see inside walls or under floors (non-invasive)
  • Areas with restricted access are noted but not inspected

After the Survey

Your Report

Expect your report within 3-5 working days. A building survey report includes:

  • Executive summary - Key findings at a glance
  • Detailed findings - Room-by-room or element-by-element analysis
  • Condition ratings - Often traffic light system (red/amber/green)
  • Recommendations - What needs attention now, soon, or later
  • Estimated costs - Approximate repair costs where relevant
  • Further investigations - Specialist reports that might be needed

Common Findings

Don't panic if your report highlights issues. Common findings include:

  • Minor damp or condensation
  • General maintenance items
  • Age-related wear and tear
  • Recommendations for future maintenance

Serious structural issues are less common but important to identify.

Using Your Survey

Your survey is a valuable negotiating tool:

  1. Price negotiation - Use repair costs to renegotiate
  2. Planning - Budget for works after completion
  3. Decision making - In rare cases, walk away from problems
  4. Insurance - Some findings may affect cover

Questions to Ask Your Surveyor

Good surveyors welcome questions. Ask about:

  • The urgency of any issues found
  • Approximate costs (they can give ballpark figures)
  • Whether specialist reports are essential
  • Any concerns about the property's future

Finding a Surveyor

Ready to book? Use our surveyor directory to find qualified professionals in your area.