How much are Home Buyer Surveys?

When your client is in the process of buying a home, one crucial step is getting a Home Buyer’s Survey. This survey is designed to help home buyers understand the condition of the property, and can save them from unexpected expenses down the line. But how much does a Home Buyer’s Survey cost in the UK? Let’s break it down.

Types of Home Buyer’s Surveys

There are three main types of surveys to choose from, each suited to different types of properties and buyer needs:

1. RICS Home Survey Level 1 (Condition Report)
   • Best for: Standard properties and new homes.
   • Cost: Between £300 and £900.
   • What it covers: This is the most basic survey, providing an overview of the property’s condition and highlighting any major issues without going into too much detail.
2. RICS Home Survey Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report)
   • Best for: Standard properties in reasonable condition.
   • Cost: Between £475 and £1,000.
   • What it covers: This survey is more detailed than the Level 1 survey. It includes an assessment of the property’s condition, advice on necessary repairs, and an estimate of the costs involved.
3. RICS Home Survey Level 3 (Building Survey)
   • Best for: Older, larger, or unusual properties, as well as those in poor condition.
   • Cost: Between £675 and £1,255.
   • What it covers: This is the most comprehensive survey. It provides a detailed analysis of the property’s structure and condition, including advice on defects, repairs, and maintenance options.

As you can see, there is a wide price range for each survey, with the cost varying based on several factors, these include:

• Property Value: Higher-value properties may attract higher survey costs.
• Location: Survey costs can vary depending on the region.
• Property Size and Age: Larger and older properties typically require more detailed surveys, which can be more expensive.

At Optimus, we offer RICS Home Survey Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report) and RICS Home Survey Level 3 (Building Survey), as well as a range of specialist surveys, these include; Asbestos Report, Damp & Timber Report, Electrical Report, Gas and Central Heating Report, and Structural Engineer’s Report.

The ultimate question is, why should your client invest in a survey?

The main reasons for investing in a home buyer’s survey are to gain peace of mind and to potentially save money in the long run. On top of this, by helping your client understand the true condition of the property they are wanting to buy, it allows them to make an informed decision and negotiate the price if necessary.

Is your client considering getting a survey for a specific property? We can guide you through the process and help you choose the right survey for your client’s needs – find out more today.