Once your offer’s been accepted, there’s a lot to think about. One of the first things you’ll need to sort is your house survey. The good news is that surveys typically happen quite quickly. You’re looking at getting one done within a week or so, though if the market’s busy you might wait a bit longer for an available slot.
The whole buying process from offer to completion usually takes around seven months on average, though this can be quicker or slower depending on various factors. Understanding how long surveys take helps you plan the journey ahead.
When should you book a survey when buying a house?
Once you’ve got an offer accepted, two things happen at the same time. You’ll need to find a conveyancing solicitor or licensed conveyancer, and you’ll need to book a surveyor. Most people get their survey booked within days of their offer being accepted.
Getting this sorted early keeps things moving smoothly. The survey sits between your offer being accepted and exchanging contracts. It’s when the legal checks and property inspections all happen. If your survey has any issues, you will need time to investigate them properly and have conversations with the seller. That’s why booking early really matters. It gives you breathing room to work through any problems before you’re legally tied to the purchase.
Different survey types and how long they take
There are three main RICS survey levels, and each one takes a different amount of time.
RICS Level 1: Condition Report
This is the simplest option. Your surveyor will spend roughly 1 to 2 hours looking around the property. They’re doing a visual inspection to spot any major issues, risks, urgent defects, or legal concerns.
Level 1 works well for newer builds and modern properties that seem to be in good condition. It’s ideal if you’re confident there aren’t any hidden structural problems lurking.
You’ll usually get your report back within 1 to 2 working days.
RICS Level 2: HomeBuyer Report
This is a step up. The surveyor typically spends 1 to 3 hours on-site, though 2 to 4 hours is quite common for a standard-sized house.
You get more detail here. The report covers the property’s condition, how it’s laid out, and what repairs might be needed. You’ll also get advice on maintenance and a valuation estimate.
Reports usually come back within 3 to 5 working days.
RICS Level 3: Building Survey (Full Structural Survey)
This is the most thorough option available. It’s a proper deep dive into the building and typically takes 4 to 8 hours on-site, depending on how big the property is and what condition it’s in.
Older homes or properties with complications might need the full 8 hours or even longer. The surveyor needs to examine everything properly. They’ll look at the structure, any damp issues, timber, signs of movement, that sort of thing.
Your final report usually takes 5 to 7 working days to pull together.
Related: When was my house built?
Structural surveys
Sometimes you might want to get a separate structural survey in addition to your main RICS survey, especially if you’re worried about specific structural problems. A structural survey typically takes 3 to 4 hours on-site.
A structural engineer focuses purely on the building’s integrity rather than its general condition. They’re looking at things like cracks, subsidence, or structural movement. These are issues that need specialist attention. They might do some more invasive checks too.
Think of it this way: a RICS survey gives you the broad picture, while a structural survey zooms in on one specific area.
Related: A buyer’s guide to repossessed properties
Who arranges a house survey?
You’ll need to arrange your survey. Your solicitor handles the legal side of things, but you’ll contact a surveyor directly or book through an online platform once you’ve accepted an offer.
Finding a surveyor is straightforward. You can search for RICS-registered surveyors in your area, get quotes from a few of them, and pick the one you’re most comfortable with. Most surveyors have online booking systems now, so you can choose dates and times that suit you. If you’re in a hurry, some can fit you in quickly.
Your lender will require a survey to proceed, but they won’t arrange it either. Your mortgage lender often has a list of recommended surveyors or a panel you can use if you’d like. You’re welcome to use their suggestions or find someone independent.
Related: Understanding the costs of buying a home
How to book a house survey
Start by getting in touch with local RICS-registered surveyors and asking for quotes. Always check they’re properly qualified. It’s worth verifying their registration.
Tell them about your property: what type it is, how old, what size, and whether there’s anything specific that concerns you. This helps them work out how long it’ll take and give you an accurate quote.
Decide which survey level you need. Level 1 is fine for new or well-maintained properties, Level 2 works for most standard homes, and Level 3 is the way to go if you’re buying something older or there’s significant work needed.
Pick a date that works for you and the surveyor. If someone’s still living in the property, you’ll need their permission to access it.
Once you’ve got your quote, check what’s included. Ask whether the report writing is covered and if there are any other costs that might come up.
What happens after your survey?
Once you’ve got your report, take time to read through it properly. If issues come up, that’s when you’d typically have conversations with the seller about what to do next.
You might ask them to fix things, or you could ask for a price reduction to cover the costs. Most sellers are open to this kind of negotiation unless they’ve already priced those issues in.
These discussions can add a few days or maybe a couple of weeks to your timeline. For more serious issues, like a roof that needs replacing or a damp problem, things can take considerably longer.
Your mortgage lender will look at the report too. If they have concerns about the property’s condition or value, they might ask for more information or want a specialist to take another look.
If anything worries you about what the survey found, you can arrange a follow-up inspection or get a specialist to investigate further. This is another reason why getting your survey done early helps. It gives you time to sort things out calmly before you’re legally committed to the purchase.
For guidance on house surveys, understanding your report, or what to expect from the buying process, speak with your local Whitegates branch. We’re here to help you through this stage.
