What happens after you receive your survey report?

A simple plan for reading the report, prioritising findings and deciding what to do next. 

Survey reports can feel detailed, especially when several defects are listed. The aim is not to make the property sound perfect or problematic. It is to give you information so you can make a better-informed decision. 

Read the whole report 

Do not look only at the highest condition ratings or headline defects. Read the surveyor’s explanation, limitations, risk summary and recommendations. Several related comments may describe one underlying issue. 

Separate urgent matters from normal maintenance 

Some findings require urgent repair or investigation. Others are common maintenance items that any homeowner may need to budget for. The report wording should help you understand the relative priority. 

Follow recommendations for further investigation 

If the surveyor cannot reach a conclusion from a visual inspection, they may recommend a specialist assessment. Arrange this before exchange where the outcome could affect your decision or budget. 

Speak to your conveyancer 

The report may flag alterations, warranties, rights, boundaries or other matters for your legal adviser. Send them the relevant sections and ask what enquiries or documents are needed. 

Obtain quotations 

Where repair cost matters to your decision, ask appropriate contractors or specialists for written quotations. A survey report is not a building quote and may not include firm costs. 

Decide how to proceed 

You may continue at the agreed price, ask the seller to complete work, propose a price adjustment, budget for the repair yourself or withdraw before exchange. The choice depends on the evidence, your finances and your appetite for the work involved.