Your home survey has arrived. What happens next?

A survey report is a starting point for informed decisions. Read it in full, understand the limitations and give yourself time to act on important findings before you exchange contracts.

Read beyond the summary

Look at the condition ratings, explanations, photographs where included, risks and recommendations together. A rating highlights a level of concern; it is not a repair quotation. An element that could not be inspected is not automatically in good condition.

Ask about anything unclear

Contact the surveyor or report provider to clarify findings within the agreed service. Ask which recommendations need attention before you proceed and whether further inspection could change the assessment.

Arrange the recommended checks

If the report recommends specialist investigations, consider having them completed before committing to the purchase. Depending on the findings, this could involve an appropriately qualified electrician, roofing contractor, drainage specialist or structural engineer.

Obtain written scopes and estimates where repairs are needed. Do not rely on an unverified online estimate to assess a significant defect.

Involve your conveyancer

Pass relevant legal matters to your conveyancer, such as concerns about alterations, approvals, boundaries or shared responsibilities. Your surveyor and conveyancer have different roles; one does not replace the other.

Decide with evidence

You may choose to proceed, seek more information, discuss the price with the seller or reconsider the purchase. A survey does not guarantee a discount, and the seller is not obliged to agree to one. Base your decision on the report, specialist advice, your budget and your conveyancer’s guidance.

General guidance for buyers in England and Wales. Your property, agreed service and professional advice determine the appropriate next steps.