Whether you’re trying to determine the cost of a building surveyor, searching for the cheapest house survey, or wondering whether to get a homebuyers report or a full building survey or even questioning if the survey is worth the time and money at all – this guide will walk you through your options.
While a property survey is traditionally seen as the buyer’s domain, in today’s market, understanding your property’s condition through a surveyor’s lens is no longer just advantageous for sellers – it’s essential.
And for buyers? The right insights at the right time can save you from making costly mistakes. That’s why a smarter, more modern approach to property surveys is needed, one that challenges the status quo and puts power back in your hands.
→ Buyers, see how Survey Shack is transforming viewings into informed decisions: Read more
→ Sellers, discover how an upfront survey can reduce stress and save you money: Read more
Start With Survey Shack: A New Way to Survey
With Survey Shack, navigating the world of property surveys is easier and more affordable than ever.
Whether you’re selling, buying, or simply conducting a home check-up, our app helps you uncover valuable, surveyor-inspired insights about your property’s condition and should be your first step.
Designed by qualified surveyors, Survey Shack turns home inspections into an engaging, user-friendly experience. You’ll gain actionable knowledge from the start, without committing to a full survey cost up front.
Assess your properties with ease, confidence, and even a bit of fun!
Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ The app guides you through your free guided property inspection with easy-to-follow instructions, teaching you along the way.
2️⃣ Your progress is saved automatically, so you can complete it at your own pace.
3️⃣ Once completed, you’ll have the option to purchase an instant report, packed with tailored, actionable insights – plus, a complimentary Critical Property Data report, which includes key details such as planning history, surface water flood risk, comparable sales, and more.
4️⃣ Kettle on, feet up, time for a good read!
All of this, for just £29.99. It’s a no-brainer!
Need a Further Assessment? Consider These Specialist Surveys
After completing your Survey Shack inspection and gaining a solid understanding of your property, you may want a more detailed look at specific areas. Instead of jumping into a RICS home survey level 2 or 3, consider these specialist surveys:
- Drone Surveys: For detailed inspections of roofs and chimney stacks. Drone surveys are rarely used by general surveyors. Remember – if you can’t see it, neither can they unless a specialist equipment is used. The report will typically flag it as an inaccessible area and include a caveat, limiting liability.
- Structural Engineer Surveys: Essential for investigating significant structural defects such as movement, cracking, or subsidence. Most general surveyors are not qualified structural engineers and will flag concerns without providing a full diagnosis. If structural issues are suspected, a dedicated structural survey can provide clarity and help you understand the severity, necessary repairs, and associated costs
- Damp and Timber Surveys: Conducted by independent specialists to diagnose the presence and cause of damp, rot, or woodworm. General surveyors may note signs of damp or timber decay, but will rarely determine the extent or source. A specialist survey gives you a detailed understanding and often includes recommendations for treatment.
- Electrical and Gas Surveys: For a comprehensive evaluation of the electrical system and the gas installations. Generally, surveyors lack the expertise and specialised equipment for in-depth assessments in these areas. Therefore, they often recommend seeking the expertise of a qualified engineer for a more comprehensive inspection
- Drainage Inspections: Utilising specialist equipment to assess the condition of the drainage system.Professional cctv drainage surveys are a must, especially for older homes! Recommended by solicitors, they help uncover hidden issues like root damage or blockages that standard surveys often overlook, because let’s face it, general surveyors don’t have X-ray vision.
If a building survey report highlights issues such as concerns with the roof covering or structure, general structural problems, damp, drainage, services, or hazardous materials like asbestos, it will often recommend further evaluations by specialists or third parties – adding to the overall cost. So why not start with Survey Shack, identify the issues early, and go directly to the right expert? We have teamed up with trusted partners to help you tackle any issues identified in your property survey with confidence.
What Are the Traditional Survey Types?
Level 1: The Condition Survey
This is a basic visual check of the property’s structure and systems. It flags visible issues, but offers limited detail.
Frankly? Our guided DIY inspection gives you more insights for less.
Level 2: The Homebuyers Report Survey
The Level 2 survey, also known as the home buyers report, is the most common choice for conventional homes in reasonable condition. This type includes a more thorough visual inspection of all reasonably accessible areas and highlights any serious or urgent issues that could affect the property’s value.
The homebuyers report survey follows a standard template and identifies visible defects that may require attention, though it does not offer detailed advice on repairs or costs.
With our app, you can inspect these areas yourself and go directly to the relevant specialists thus saving on professional home survey costs.
Level 3: Detailed Home Survey Report
Often considered the most detailed analysis a general surveyor can provide, a Level 3 Building Survey (or Detailed Home Survey Report, as we reference it) is typically recommended for older properties, listed buildings, homes in visibly poor condition, or those that have undergone significant alterations or extensions. While it’s frequently suggested for those planning extensive renovations, it’s important to recognise that such projects often involve structural modifications, which will likely require the expertise of a structural engineer at an additional cost.
It’s crucial to understand that not all general surveyors possess expertise across every property type. Therefore, when considering a Detailed Home Survey Report, it’s wise to choose a surveyor with experience relevant to the specific type of property you’re dealing with.
A comprehensive Detailed Home Survey Report should go beyond simply listing visible defects. Ideally, it will outline potential scenarios if repairs are not undertaken. While the report may highlight opportunities for improving energy efficiency, its commentary on services (electrical, gas, drainage) will typically be limited to the surveyor’s expertise and what is reasonably accessible—similar to a Level 2 Home Survey Report.
Depending on the individual surveyor and surveying company, Detailed Home Survey Reports often allow more flexibility to address specific concerns than Level 2 Home Survey Reports. Although a standard report usually won’t include precise remedial cost estimates, an experienced surveyor may be able to offer broad cost indications in certain cases.
Legal Protection
If you’re instructing a surveyor primarily for legal protection, it’s important to be aware that traditional survey reports often come with many caveats. These disclaimers can significantly limit liability and weaken any potential legal claims, particularly for issues outside the report’s defined scope. Recognising this early helps set realistic expectations and highlights the value of starting with an affordable initial assessment, followed by targeted specialist reports when necessary.
Understanding Survey Costs and Choosing Wisely
One of the biggest factors that influence the type of survey you choose is, of course, cost. Fees vary widely depending on the survey level, property size, and location and can range anywhere from £450 for a basic survey to several thousand pounds for a detailed building survey.
If you’re trying to get a competitive home survey quote, Survey Shack’s guided survey is a smart, low-cost way to gain clarity – without the upfront expense of a full traditional survey. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative or simply trying to understand which type of survey is right for you, Survey Shack provides an affordable first step. It’s the modern buyer and seller’s best ally.
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