What Do Surveyors Look For in a House Survey?
A house survey helps buyers understand visible defects, condition concerns and potential risks before committing to a property purchase.
What does a surveyor check during a house survey?
During a house survey, a surveyor looks at the visible and accessible areas of the property to assess its condition and identify defects that may need attention. The exact level of detail depends on the type of survey you choose, such as a Level 2 Home Survey or a Level 3 Building Survey.
The purpose of a survey is to help you understand the building before you exchange contracts. It is not the same as a mortgage valuation, which is usually carried out for the lender rather than for the buyer’s detailed understanding.
The key point: a house survey focuses on visible condition issues, defects, risks and areas where further specialist advice may be needed.
Common areas checked in a house survey
Roof and chimneys
The surveyor may look for visible issues with roof coverings, chimney stacks, flashings, gutters and rainwater goods.
External walls and finishes
Brickwork, render, external walls, windows, doors and external finishes may be assessed for visible defects or maintenance concerns.
Damp and ventilation
Surveyors look for visible signs of dampness, staining, condensation, poor ventilation or moisture-related issues.
Cracking and movement
Visible cracking, distortion, movement or structural warning signs may be noted, with further checks recommended where appropriate.
Internal areas a surveyor may inspect
Inside the property, the surveyor will usually look at visible and accessible parts of the home. This can include walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, joinery and accessible roof spaces, depending on the property and survey level.
Internal checks may include:
- Internal walls, ceilings and visible signs of cracking or staining.
- Floors, skirting boards, joinery, windows and doors.
- Visible signs of dampness, condensation or ventilation issues.
- Accessible roof spaces, where safe and practical to inspect.
- General maintenance concerns and signs of deterioration.
- Issues that may require further specialist investigation.
What problems can a house survey find?
House surveys often identify issues that buyers may not notice during a viewing. These can range from minor maintenance items to more serious defects that may affect your decision to proceed.
Common issues can include dampness, roof defects, cracking, poor ventilation, timber concerns, drainage issues, defective rainwater goods and general maintenance problems. You can read more on the Common Property Problems page.
A survey does not guarantee a problem-free property, but it can reduce the risk of unexpected surprises by giving you a clearer picture before purchase.
Does every house survey check the same things?
No. A Level 2 Home Survey and a Level 3 Building Survey both assess visible and accessible parts of the property, but a Level 3 Survey provides a more detailed level of reporting. This is often recommended for older, larger, altered or more complex properties.
If you are unsure which survey is right for the property you are buying, the Property Survey page gives a helpful overview of the different options available.
House Survey FAQs
What do surveyors look for in a house survey?
Surveyors look for visible and accessible defects, including issues with roofs, walls, windows, doors, dampness, cracking, movement, floors, ceilings and maintenance concerns.
Does a house survey check the roof?
Yes, a house survey can include visible checks of roof coverings, chimneys, gutters and rainwater goods, where these areas are visible and accessible.
Does a surveyor check for damp?
A surveyor can identify visible signs of dampness, staining, condensation or poor ventilation. Where needed, they may recommend further specialist advice.
Is a house survey the same as a mortgage valuation?
No. A mortgage valuation is usually for the lender. A house survey is arranged for the buyer and focuses on the property’s visible condition, defects and risks.
Which house survey should I choose?
The right survey depends on the property. A Level 2 Home Survey may suit a conventional home, while a Level 3 Building Survey is better for older or more complex properties.
Need a house survey?
Dunford Penrose Surveyors can help you choose the right survey for the property you are buying.
