Is a property survey worth it when you are buying a home? In almost every case, the answer is yes. A professional survey is one of the few checks that can directly protect you from unexpected repair costs and help you make a calm, informed decision.

When you view a property, you usually have limited time and you are often looking around with a very optimistic mindset. A surveyor, on the other hand, is trained to look for problems such as damp, timber decay, roof defects, movement, poor drainage and unsafe alterations. Many of these issues only become obvious once someone inspects carefully and knows where to look.

If you decide not to have a survey, you accept that any defects discovered after completion are your responsibility. Repair bills for roofs, structural movement or damp can quickly run into many thousands of pounds. In this context, the cost of a survey is relatively small and, in many cases, pays for itself several times over.

A survey report can also be a powerful negotiation tool. If genuine defects are identified, buyers often choose to renegotiate the agreed price or ask for works to be completed before exchange. This is much easier when you have an independent professional report to support your position rather than relying on opinion alone.

If you would like to understand the different survey options available, you can read a clear explanation of the main types of survey here:

View our property surveys explained guide.

For transparent, upfront costs, you can see typical fees here:

View our full survey price list.

General guidance on the process of buying and selling a home is also available from official sources such as the UK government website.

Read official guidance on buying and selling a home.

For answers to common questions that buyers ask about surveys, valuations, defects and timing, you can also refer to our FAQ page:

Visit our Property Survey FAQs.