Choosing a Survey 

RICS HomeBuyer (Survey) 

This is the choice of most purchasers and is suitable for the majority of properties. It is not, however, suitable for heavily extended, period or complex buildings. 
 
This survey includes a detailed inspection of all accessible areas, including the roof space and is concise in nature and condition rated using a traffic light system; i.e. green is acceptable and red usually requires urgent action or further investigation. This helps to prioritise any defects noted. 
 
The HomeBuyer (Survey) does not, as standard, include a valuation or a reinstatement figure for insurance purposes. These can, however, be provided for an additional fee. 
 
However, most purchases are usually mortgages and will no doubt be having a mortgage valuation undertaken by a building society. 

Building Survey 

Building Survey Reports are suitable for all property types but are particularly recommended for older properties or those that are known to be in poor condition. Other types of property that benefit from the in-depth nature of a Building Survey Report include buildings that have been unusually constructed or that have undergone alteration works. 
 
A Building Survey Report provides a buyer with full details of the construction and condition of the property, covering both minor defects as well as major repair works. The completed report will comment on the condition of all walls, floors and roofs throughout the property, both inside and outside of the main building. 
 
The survey will examine all accessible parts of the property and a 30-40 page report will be produced together with a Photographic Appendix to aid understanding of the written report. 

Fabric Survey 

A Fabric Survey is suitable for older properties in need of complete modernisation. 
 
This report only focuses on the main fabric of the property (i.e. walls, floors, chimneys, roof, timber/damp issues and drainage, and will not tell you the condition of the kitchen/bathrooms, or services for example) 
 
 
 
 
 

Final Snagging 

Final snagging is designed specifically to check for problems with a new-build home. It covers both internal and external aspects of the property and aims to identify any faults with the quality and finish of the build. 
 
Ideally, a snagging survey should be completed during the period between building work being finished and the legal completion date. This helps to avoid any doubt as to whether the defects have arisen as a result of wear and tear once you have moved in. It can also help to motivate the developer to fix any issues before you move in. 
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