What Does a Surveyor Inspect During a Survey?

What does a surveyor inspect?

A property survey provides an independent assessment of a home's condition at the time of inspection. The surveyor will examine the visible and accessible areas of the property and report on any significant issues that could affect your decision to buy or the property's future maintenance needs.

The exact scope of the inspection depends on the type of survey, the age and construction of the property, and whether areas can be accessed safely on the day. Not every part of a property can be inspected, but the surveyor will assess as much as reasonably possible and explain any limitations within the report.

Outside the property

The surveyor will inspect the exterior of the property to identify visible defects, signs of deterioration and any issues that may require further investigation or ongoing maintenance.

The inspection may include:

• Roof coverings, chimneys and rainwater goods where visible
• Main walls, pointing and signs of movement or damp
• Windows, external doors and visible joinery
• Conservatories, porches and permanent outbuildings where accessible
• Grounds, boundaries and visible features that may affect the property

Inside the property

Inside the home, the surveyor will assess the condition of the main building elements and look for signs of defects, damage or deterioration that could affect the property's condition or value.

The inspection may include:

• Ceilings, walls, floors and internal joinery
• Roof space where access is safe and reasonable
• Visible signs of damp, timber defects or movement
• Fireplaces, chimney breasts and built-in features where relevant
• Visible aspects of the property's construction and condition

What about services?

The surveyor will carry out a visual inspection of accessible services, including electricity, gas or oil, water, heating and drainage systems. However, surveys do not include specialist testing, and the surveyor cannot confirm that systems are working correctly, safe to use or compliant with current regulations.

If concerns are identified, further investigation by an appropriately qualified specialist may be recommended.

Environmental, safety and legal matters

During the inspection, the surveyor may identify visible risks or matters that could require further investigation, such as signs of environmental concerns, health and safety issues or alterations to the property.

These observations may be highlighted within the report, but a survey does not replace legal advice, specialist testing or the work carried out by your conveyancer.

What doesn't a surveyor inspect?

Property surveys are designed to be non-invasive. To avoid causing damage and for health and safety reasons, there are certain things a surveyor will not normally do during an inspection.

This typically includes:

• Lifting fitted carpets, floor coverings or floorboards
• Moving heavy furniture, stored belongings or insulation
• Removing secured panels or electrical fittings
• Testing gas, electrical, plumbing, heating or drainage systems
• Carrying out asbestos testing or specialist environmental surveys
• Inspecting areas that are unsafe or inaccessible

Understanding the limits of a survey

No survey can uncover every possible issue within a property. Surveyors can only report on the areas that are visible and accessible at the time of inspection. If significant concerns are identified, your report may recommend additional specialist investigations before you proceed with your purchase.

The purpose of a survey is to help you understand the condition of a property before you buy, giving you greater confidence and helping you make a more informed purchase decision.