If you’re in the process of buying a house, you’ve probably been told that you need a survey. But here’s the big question: how long does a house survey take? The answer can vary, but understanding the timeline will help you plan and make the process a little less stressful.
In the guide, we’ll talk about everything you need to know about house surveys, from the duration to how you can speed up the process.
Related: The process of buying a house explained
Why the survey duration matters
When you’re buying a home, a survey is an important step – it helps make sure there are no surprises lurking behind the walls. Whether you’re getting your first home or upgrading to something bigger, a survey helps you understand what you’re buying.
But the timing of the survey can be just as important. Knowing how long it takes can help you stay on track with your home-buying plans and avoid unexpected delays.
Types of property surveys and timelines
There are several types of property surveys to choose from, each with its unique timeline. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Condition Report (Level 1): The simplest and quickest of them all. This is usually for newer homes in good condition, and it’ll only take about 1 hour for the surveyor to complete the on-site inspection.
- HomeBuyer Report (Level 2): A more detailed check that looks at things like the structure of the property, the roof, dampness, and other key areas. This will generally take about 2 to 4 hours on-site.
- Building Survey (Level 3): This one’s most detailed. It’s the most thorough survey and is perfect for older or unusual properties. The inspection can take up to 8 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property.
Each type of survey has a different level of detail, and this affects how long it takes – not just on-site, but also how long it’ll take to get the report afterwards. So, whether you’re looking at a cosy little flat or a sprawling period home, the inspection time will vary.
Report turnaround time from inspection to delivery
Once the survey is done, there’s still a bit of a wait for the report to come back. Here’s what you can expect:
- Condition Report (Level 1): You’ll usually get the report within 1-2 days. Quick and to the point.
- HomeBuyer Report (Level 2): This one takes a little longer, 3-5 working days for the report to be ready.
- Building Survey (Level 3): Since it’s the most detailed, the report can take 7-10 days to come through.
While it might feel like a long wait, the surveyor is working hard to make sure they provide you with a thorough and useful report. Patience is key here.
Related: Exchanging contracts: guide to completion
Factors that influence duration
So, why does it take a little longer sometimes? Several factors can affect the speed of your survey:
- Size and condition of the property: Larger properties or older homes with more potential issues will take longer to inspect.
- Survey type: As we’ve mentioned, a Level 3 survey takes longer because it’s much more in-depth.
- Surveyor’s schedule: Sometimes, surveyors get busy, especially during peak buying seasons. A little flexibility on timing can help.
- Access issues: If the property has areas that are tricky to get to, like lofts or basements, it might take a little longer for the surveyor to do their job properly.
If you’re on a tight schedule, it’s worth chatting with your surveyor about these potential delays upfront.
Related: What is a memorandum of sale? A clear guide for buyers and sellers
Typical timeline from offer accepted to full report
Once your offer is accepted and you’ve booked your survey, here’s a rough timeline of how things might go:
- Week 1: Offer accepted, and you arrange the survey. Depending on the surveyor’s schedule, this could take a few days.
- Week 2: The survey happens. On-site inspection usually takes a few hours.
- Week 3: The report is ready and sent to you. For more detailed surveys, this could take 7 to 10 days.
So, in total, expect about 2-3 weeks from offer acceptance to receiving the full report, but it can vary based on survey complexity and surveyor availability.
Related: Top tips for getting your offer accepted on a property
Choosing the right survey type for timing and budget
The survey type you choose will affect not only the duration but also your budget. Here’s a quick guide:
- Condition Report (Level 1): If you’re in a rush or on a tight budget, this is the fastest and most affordable option, but it’s not as thorough.
- HomeBuyer Report (Level 2): This strikes a good balance between cost and detail, so it’s great for average homes in decent condition.
- Building Survey (Level 3): For an older or more complex property, this is the best option, but it does take longer and costs more.
Talk to your surveyor about your timeline and budget. They can help you decide which survey best fits your needs.
Related: Pros and cons of buying period property
How to expedite the survey process
If you’re eager to speed things up, here are a few tips:
- Book early: As soon as your offer is accepted, schedule the survey to avoid delays.
- Choose a local surveyor: They may have more availability and faster turnaround times.
- Be ready for access: Make sure the surveyor has easy access to all parts of the property, including lofts, basements, and external areas.
Impact on conveyancing and completion timeline
The results of your survey can affect the conveyancing process. If the survey uncovers issues, you may need time to negotiate repairs or price reductions with the seller. This can delay the completion timeline.
However, having a survey done early means you’ll have plenty of time to work through any issues that arise without rushing at the last minute.
Related: How to speed up the conveyancing process
Buying a home? Plan with survey timing
Now that you have a better idea of how long a house survey takes, you can plan your next steps with confidence. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or you have a bit more time, understanding the timing and being proactive will make the process smoother.
While surveys take time, they are essential in making sure your new home is a safe and sound investment. If you need any help along the way, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
Reach out to us at your local Martin & Co branch and we’ll help make the whole process as easy as possible.
