Choosing a survey

Everything you need to know about choosing a survey.

Investing money into a property is not something to do without being armed with the facts. A basic valuation for a lender might seem the most economical way to get a mortgage but this will only provide a valuation, not peace of mind.

Surveys can be immensely reassuring and invaluable. They can help you avoid costly surprises, as well as giving you peace of mind. Whether you're a first time buyer or an experienced property purchaser, Countrywide Surveying Services can help you choose the right survey for your needs.

Choosing Countrywide to undertake a property survey on your behalf might save you many thousands of pounds whilst providing you with peace of mind about your new property.

Which survey is right for you?

HomeFact Report

HomeFact is our property condition report designed to offer you essential information about the home you are buying. It will help you understand your new home better - its condition both inside and out, and what you need to do to maintain it.

Report features:

  • Colour coded and easy to follow.
  • Photographs of any major concerns.
  • Summary of risks and legal matters.
  • Local area information, such as crime statistics, schools, shopping and recreation.
  • Jargon buster and maintenance tips for looking after your home once it’s yours.
  • Digitally interactive.

Service exclusions

  • Property is built before 1800
  • 6 or more bedrooms
  • Property has an annex

RICS Home Survey - Level 2 (previously RICS Homebuyer Survey)

This survey is available on most conventionally constructed properties that are in reasonable condition. It includes the following:

  • Clear ‘traffic light’ ratings of the condition of the different parts of the building, a review of the services connected, garden areas, garage and outbuildings including advice on repairs and on-going maintenance.
  • A summary of risks affecting the property.
  • Identification of issues that need to be investigated to prevent serious damage or dangerous conditions.
  • A summary of the legal issues which should be investigated before completing a purchase.

Service exclusions

  • Property is built before 1800

RICS Home Survey - Level 2 & Valuation (previously RICS HomeBuyer Survey & Valuation)

Our most popular survey is also available with a valuation. It includes the following:

  • Clear ‘traffic light’ ratings of the condition of the different parts of the building, a review of the services connected, garden areas, garage and outbuildings including advice on repairs and on-going maintenance.
  • A summary of risks affecting the property.
  • Identification of issues that need to be investigated to prevent serious damage or dangerous conditions.
  • Our surveyor’s professional opinion on the value of the property, plus a sum for building reinstatement for insurance purposes.
  • A summary of the legal issues which should be investigated before completing a purchase.

RICS Home Survey - Level 3 (previously RICS Building Survey)

Our flagship survey and ideal if you are purchasing a larger, older or more unusual property, including one that has been significantly altered or extended. It’s also suitable for properties in obviously poor condition and may be helpful if are planning to carry out alterations. It will provide you with the following:

  • A more thorough and extensive inspection and a detailed report covering a wider range of issues.
  • Detailed description of the construction of the property.
  • Description and advice on the visible defects and potential problem areas.
  • An outline of repair options and indication of the consequences if matters are not dealt with.
  • Additional advice on energy efficiency.
  • Identification of legal issues that need to be investigated before completing a purchase.

For more advice or to book a survey with us, speak to one our team on 0161 401 2917

Frequently asked questions

  • A survey is a property health check; it will advise you about the condition of the property and will assist you in making a decision on whether to purchase the property or not.

  • Unlike a valuation, surveys are designed to provide purchasers with information on the condition of a property, this is to assist with the decision of whether to purchase the property or not. It will also inform them of issues within the property that need attention.

    The level of both the inspection and reporting for a survey are more detailed than for a valuation. However, the level of inspection and reporting will vary dependant on the scope of the survey product chosen. Details on the scope of the survey will be included in the Terms of Engagement.

    Find out more about surveys.

    Find out more about valuations.

  • Whilst outlaying money on a survey may be unwanted, the benefits outweigh the potential loss of hidden defects that a basic inspection cannot address. With a more extensive inspection, you can be aware of potential costly defects and get them addressed before exchange of contracts; a small financial outlay now could stop a large one in the future.

    The more informed you are prior to purchasing a property, the better prepared you are. Money can be saved with the ability to renegotiate, budget and plan for works that might need to be done.

    Even though choosing to purchase a survey is entirely optional, we highly recommend it.

  • A survey is a property health check; it will advise you about the condition of the property and will assist you in making a decision on whether to purchase the property or not.

  • The following table gives a quick comparison of the different reports and services offered.

    View comparison table

Guidance & FAQs

Information and guidance on choosing the surveying services most suitable for your needs.

Property valuations

Find out what happens when we are asked to value a property for secured lending purposes.

Find out more

Property inspections

What to expect before and during a property inspection will vary depending on whether it's for survey or mortgage valuation purposes.

Find out more

Understanding your survey

Your survey is an important document, you should read it from cover to cover and highlight any sections which you don’t understand or want to discuss further.

Find out more

Maintaining your property

Regular maintenance inspections and prompt repair of any defects noticed by our surveyor will help keep future repair costs to a minimum.

Find out more

Want to talk to someone?

Get help by phone to discuss your requirements or to arrange your survey.