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myHouse Survey Cost
At a Glance
- The average house survey costs around £625 in the UK.
- Surveying a home will take approximately 2 to 6 hours to complete.
- NEW! Our house survey cost calculator, which offers you an interactive and personalised way of understanding what this type of job will cost you.
- A complete pricing breakdown of how much different types of house surveys cost in the UK, including residential, commercial, and full structural survey costs.
- The average cost of building surveyors, and how long house surveys take to complete.
- How to easily find and hire a house surveyor using MyJobQuote's online directory.
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How much does a house survey cost in the UK?
In 2026, the average building survey cost is around £625. However, the cost of house surveys are impacted by how extensive the survey is, the size of the property, and a few other important factors.
It can also be impacted by individual building surveyor costs, with those in major UK cities being more expensive than smaller locations.
This guide covers everything you need to know about house survey costs, as well as the things you need to know about property surveys, and whether you can carry out building surveys as a DIY project.
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MyJobQuote has a range of local home surveyors who can provide you with a free, no obligation quote for the cost of a house survey.
Want to find out more first? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about house survey costs!
£625
Table of Contents
House Survey Cost Calculator
How Much Is a House Survey?
Property and building surveys are extremely informative — they're the starting point for learning about structural and other property issues.
The price of a house survey depends on the type of survey you're having conducted and the size and complexity of the property. The average cost of a residential house survey in the UK is between £400 to £500 for the surveyor's labour rate alone, with an extra £100 to £250 added on for necessary equipment.
Cost of House Survey
Let's take a closer look at house survey costs in a range of scenarios:
| Job Description | Duration | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Building and Land Survey | 1 – 6 hours | £500 – £900 |
| Commercial Evaluations | 1 – 8 hours | £350 – £650 |
| Residential Evaluation of Property and Land | 1 – 4 hours | £500 – £750 |
| Reports/Data | Included | Including in survey costs |
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What Impacts House Survey Costs?
House survey prices can vary a lot, even for similar properties. That is because the quote is based on the time and effort needed to inspect the home properly and write a clear survey report, not just the survey level you choose.
Let's take a look at each of these cost factors below.
Size and Layout
Surveyors do not price purely by postcode or guesswork. The size and layout of the home affect how long the inspection takes and how much there is to cover.
- Larger Properties — Usually take longer to inspect and write up.
- Split-Level Layouts — Outbuildings and multiple rooflines can add extra time.
Age and Condition
Older homes often need a closer look because there are more things that can be hidden behind the surface. If the property's condition is unclear, the surveyor may allow more time for checks.
- Period Properties — Can take longer to assess due to wear, alterations, and repairs.
- Visible Cracking — Signs of movement can mean a more detailed inspection is needed.
Site Access
If parts of the property are awkward to access, the inspection takes longer, and there is less the surveyor can confirm on the day. That can lead to follow-up advice in the report.
- Tight Loft Hatches — Flat roofs and shared areas can slow the inspection down.
- Survey Report — May recommend further investigation if something cannot be checked safely.
Location
Costs can change depending on your property location, especially if demand is high or surveyors have longer travel times. This is why two quotes for the same job can look miles apart.
- Regional Pricing — Often varies by region, not just by property type.
- Travel Time — Parking restrictions and local availability can affect the final cost.
Type of Survey Needed
If you are buying an older home or anything that has been extended, you may be quoted for a structural survey rather than a standard inspection. This is where costs can jump.
- Full Structural Survey Cost — Usually higher because the inspection takes longer and the report is more detailed.
- Comparing Quotes — Check whether you are getting a structural survey quote, as the full structural survey cost is often higher for older or altered properties.
What Is a House Survey and Why Do You Need One?
Put simply, a house survey is the starting point to learn what might be wrong with a structure. A house surveyor will visit the building and conduct the house survey, then share a detailed report of known issues, necessary changes, and/or conflicts with building regulations.
If there are issues with structure or foundation, the surveyor will include this in their notes. If there are areas which need repair, you will receive a detailed inspection report - basically, any and all property or structural issues will be dictated in a surveyor's report.
When Buying a Property
Having a house survey conducted will alert you to problems with the property's structure. If there are substantial issues requiring remedial work, you can use these findings as bargaining tools with the house seller to negotiate the price down, or agree to have the work completed by the seller before you exchange.
Other Reasons You Might Need a Survey
- When Selling a Property — The buyer may request a home buyer's survey prior to agreeing to and signing the contract.
- Required By Your Lender or Local Authority — If there are concerns about compliance with local rules.
- For Peace of Mind or Planning Work — Whether it's for an extension or other building works, you can use the findings to enlist the help of contractors to bring your building up to current building regulations, and correct any flagged construction work.
We've heard lots of scare stories about new-build homes not being built to good standards. What should we be looking out for and what questions should we be asking before we part with any money?
"First off all, inspect the brick work — ones I’ve been on have a massive blug in them. Also, check the air vent bricks are on ground level (i.e., in the grass or stone, they should be 75mm above ground level). I like them 150mm personally, otherwise you get damp issues.
Another issue I found on these sites are fascias and sofets. Make sure they are square and not damaged. Check to see how many joins there are, too. If you can also get in the loft, inspect the ventalation pipe and the insulation. Ones I’ve been on are not connected or the insulation is just thrown down.
Really go through it with a keen eye. Ideally get someone in the trade to come along and help inspect."
Another issue I found on these sites are fascias and sofets. Make sure they are square and not damaged. Check to see how many joins there are, too. If you can also get in the loft, inspect the ventalation pipe and the insulation. Ones I’ve been on are not connected or the insulation is just thrown down.
Really go through it with a keen eye. Ideally get someone in the trade to come along and help inspect."
What Problems Can Be Found in a House Survey?
The list is practically endless when it comes to what can be found in a house survey. Depending on the type you choose - a full structural survey or a home buyer's report - you will have different levels of detail.
Here's what you may come across:
Structural Problems
High on the list of critical issues are structural problems. These can concern the property's foundations, either evidenced in subsidence or movement in the foundations, or concerning cracks in the property's walls, ceilings, or floors.
The cost of laying foundations ranges from £7,000 to upwards of £11,800. It's an invasive correction, leading to further costs as the house structure itself will likely need to be revised once the foundations are corrected, depending on the severity of the foundation issue.
Damp, Moisture, and Timber Rot Issues
If the property has been subject to flooding or water issues in the past, there's a liklihood that moisture and damp problems will be flagged in the house survey report. This can lead to greater issues like rotting house timbers which will require swift treatment.
If mould is found in the house, the cost to remove mould from a single, large room can range from £220 to £280, while larger issues such as a mould infestation throughout the entire property can cost closer to £725 to £1,100.
Rising damp can damage not just the property, but the inhabitants' health, and requires fast action to remedy. The cost to treat rising damp is around £2,750.
Electrical, Plumbing, and Heating Issues
Unsafe boilers can be prevalent in older properties where maintenance has slipped over the years. In these situations, it may be suggested that old boilers are replaced with new models - especially if there is a problem with the safety of the old appliance.
New boiler installation costs start at £2,000 in the UK, but can depend based on the ease of access and size of the property in question.
Similarly found in older properties is unsafe electrical wiring. The cost of rewiring a house can start from £4,000, but easily rise in excess of £10,000 for large properties.
Water and Drainage Issues
Following on from internal plumbing issues, you may have problems with larger drainage in and around the home. To identify these problems and begin to recify them, a drain survey costs £250 on average.
Discovery of Hazardous Materials
Your home survey may find evidence of hazardous materials in the property, ranging from lead paint to asbestos. Both materials need removing or containing depending on their state to ensure the safety of those living in the property.
If asbestos is found in a property's roof, the typical asbestos removal costs are around £2,500.
The cost of removing lead paint ranges from £70 to £770 depending on wall size and volume of lead paint. Following removal, you'll then need your walls replastered and made good with painting or wallpapering.
Plastering a wall costs around £500 for an average-sized room, while re-painting a wall costs £400.
I have a Level 2 survey report with several R3 issues, namely cracked roof beams and cracks on the walls. How can I obtain an estimate of repair costs?
"Typically any general builder or roofer can assist you with assessing the issues from the chartered surveyors report."
Types of House Surveys
A house survey is not a one-size-fits-all job. The right option depends on the age of the property, how it has been looked after, and how much reassurance you want before you commit to the purchase price.
In the UK, most RICS home surveys fall into three home survey levels. The more detailed the survey, the higher the cost, but it can also highlight expensive problems before it's too late.
| Survey Level | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Level 1 | Condition Report | Newer homes in good condition |
| Level 2 | HomeBuyer Report and homebuyers survey | Most standard homes |
| Level 3 | Building survey and full structural survey | Older, altered, or unique homes |
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Condition Report Survey
A level 1 condition report survey is the most basic type of home survey.
It gives you a simple survey report highlighting urgent visible issues, but it will not go into as much detail on causes or repair options.
HomeBuyer Report and Homebuyers Survey
A level 2 home survey is the most popular choice for buyers. It includes a detailed visual inspection of key areas like walls, ceilings, windows, roof coverings, insulation, and obvious signs of damp.
You will get a clear home report with condition ratings and practical advice.
Building Survey and Structural Survey
A level 3 home survey is the most detailed option. It is often called a structural survey or full structural survey, and it is best for older homes, properties with extensions, loft conversions, or anything that could come with hidden repair costs.
If the surveyor spots something serious, the survey report may recommend further investigation or a specialist survey for things like drains, timber, electrics, or asbestos.
Checklist: Hiring a House Surveyor in the UK
You shouldn't rely on surveying a house yourself.
For an accurate and professional survey, hiring a qualified house surveyor is the choice most homeowners go for.
With MyJobQuote, you can receive multiple quotes from local home surveyors, that are fast, free, with no-obligation to go ahead.
Consider these key points before hiring a house surveyor:
- Do they specialise in RICS home surveys? Find out if they do residential or commercial surveys, and what type of property surveys they specialise in.
- What experience and qualifications do they have? Ensure the house surveyor is accredited and qualified with relevant professional bodies.
- What do they include? Are you simply paying for the survey, or do you get a full report with recommendations for repairs and upgrades? Learn how they do surveys and what the report indicates.
- How long does the survey take? Learn about how long it takes, and what they will do to the building and land during the inspection.
- Do they understand building regulations? Make sure they understand relevant building regulations and local planning rules, so they can highlight any obvious compliance issues.
- What are their costs? Learn about costs associated with different types of RICS home surveys and get quotes from multiple surveyors to compare.
- Do they have positive reviews? Check their MyJobQuote profile to see if they have positive feedback from other homeowners.
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FAQs
Who arranges a house survey?
In a typical house sale, the buyer typically pays the house survey fees, which are usually done after an offer has been accepted, and before any contracts are exchanged. Usually, when you buy a house with a mortgage, your lender might also arrange their own separate valuation, but that doesn't replace the need for your survey.
What does a house survey not cover?
A house survey is a great way to understand the property’s condition, but it is not a guarantee that every problem will be found. It is usually a detailed inspection of what the surveyor can see and safely access on the day, so it will not involve lifting carpets, moving furniture, drilling into walls, or testing things like electrics and drains. If the survey report spots anything concerning, it may recommend a full structural survey or a specialist survey that needs specialist knowledge, so you can get the proper checks done before you commit.
What is the difference between a mortgage valuation and a home survey?
Although they might sound similar, a mortgage valuation survey and a home survey do different jobs. The mortgage valuation survey is a brief check carried out for the lender to confirm the property is worth the price being paid. A home survey is arranged by the buyer instead, and focuses on the condition of the building, picking up defects and likely repairs so you can decide how to proceed.
Can you do property surveys yourself?
You should not rely on surveying a property yourself, even if you know how to do a survey, as surveyors should be properly qualified and insured. In some cases, there is a stipulation from a lender as to which surveyor or company you can hire. You have to comply with the building regulations and local requirements in place when hiring a surveyor.
Do I need to be present during a house survey?
Surveyors tend to work alone, so you are not required to be present. However, if you would like to be there to ask questions, you can arrange access with the owner or the estate agent.
Does a house survey check for asbestos?
There is no asbestos testing in standard home surveys, but the surveyor will flag any suspicious materials. They can then recommend that you have specialist testing done for asbestos after.
Does they test for damp when surveying a house?
Damp is checked as standard. The surveyor will look for things like water stains, mould, and peeling paint. They'll note down the type and what they believe to be the most likely cause in their report.
What happens if the survey finds major problems?
If any big red flags are reported in the survey, you should discuss with the surveyor what the urgency of these issues are and what the costs would be to put them right. You can use this information to negotiate the price, or ask the seller to fix the issues before you exchange contracts.
