Mortgage Valuation vs Property Survey

A mortgage valuation is arranged by the lender to help them decide whether the property is suitable security for the loan. Although the buyer usually pays for it, the report is for the lender, so you cannot rely on it as an assessment of condition.

A mortgage valuation is not a survey. It may be brief, limited, or even desktop-based, with no internal inspection at all.

A buyer's survey is different. It is designed to help you understand the condition of the property, identify defects, and decide whether further investigation, negotiation, or repair planning is needed.

When should you commission a survey?

A survey is normally commissioned after your offer has been accepted but before exchange of contracts. Most surveyors can attend within one to two weeks of instruction, with the written report typically following three to five working days after the inspection.