Buying a new home is exciting—but it’s also a big financial commitment. That’s why getting a survey done before you sign on the dotted line can be one of the best decisions you make. Here are the five reasons why you should:
1. Mortgage Valuation Doesn’t Protect You as the Buyer
Many people assume that a mortgage valuation is enough—but it’s not designed with you in mind. It’s simply a check for the lender to confirm the property is worth the amount they’re loaning you. These valuations are often short (sometimes under 20 minutes) and won’t explore common issues like damp, dry rot, or structural movement in any real detail.What’s more, these days many valuations are done remotely—called desktop valuations—using sales data and no physical inspection at all. And even if the surveyor does visit the property, you won’t always get access to that report.
2. A Survey Gives You an Independent, Expert Assessment
We take the time to carry out a detailed, impartial inspection—often lasting two hours or more, depending on the property’s size. While buyers typically spend just 30–40 minutes viewing a home, we go further, checking places you might not think to look—like the attic, roof voids, or underfloor areas. That expert eye can spot things you may easily miss.
3. Avoid Expensive Surprises After You Move In
A survey is a small upfront cost compared to the price of unexpected repairs. If you’re not in a position to budget for a survey now, ask yourself—could you afford a major repair bill later?
4. You May Be Able to Renegotiate the Price
You May Be Able to Renegotiate the Price
If a survey reveals issues, it doesn’t mean you have to walk away. Instead, you can use the findings as a powerful negotiating tool. If the seller won’t fix the problems, you can ask for a price reduction to cover the cost of repairs. With our Digital Home Survey, you can even share the report directly with your contractors to get quick quotes and assess the impact before committing.
5. Local Knowledge
We know the local area and that makes a big difference. From flood risks and historic mining activity to issues with nearby pylons or underground infrastructure, we understands the specific risks and quirks of your chosen location. That local insight helps you make a fully informed decision and avoid nasty surprises after you move in.