When should you get a property survey
When should you get a property survey during a house purchase? Timing the survey correctly helps you avoid wasted costs while still giving you enough time to act on any issues that are found.
Most buyers arrange their survey after their offer has been accepted and once they have a reasonable level of confidence that the transaction is moving forward. If you are in a chain, this usually means checking that your own buyer is also progressing and that there are no obvious signs that the sale might collapse in the very early stages.
Commissioning a survey too early can be frustrating if another link in the chain fails and you have already spent money on professional fees. Leaving it too late can cause delays just at the point when everyone is trying to agree dates for exchange and completion. The ideal moment is usually once solicitors have started their initial work, but before you are under pressure to exchange quickly.
Your choice of survey type is also important. Different properties are better suited to different levels of inspection, and understanding the options makes it easier to decide when to instruct your surveyor. A clear explanation of the main types of survey can be found in our guide here:
Read our property surveys explained guide.
Knowing the likely cost in advance can also help you plan your budget. Our fees for the various survey options are set out in a simple table:
For broader information about the buying process, you may also find it helpful to look at independent guidance from official sources.
See government guidance on buying your home.
If you are unsure when to book or which survey to choose, our FAQ page answers many of the questions buyers regularly ask and can be a useful starting point before you speak to us directly.