A lender's valuation and a survey commissioned to inform your purchase serve different purposes. Ask what each service covers, who receives the report and what limitations apply. The appropriate investigation depends on the property, its condition and any specific concerns, so seek advice from a suitably qualified survey professional.
Compare the scope
- Inspection detail and areas that cannot be accessed.
- Treatment of services, outbuildings and unusual construction.
- Whether a valuation or estimated repairs are included.
- Report timing, follow-up discussion and additional investigations.
Tell the surveyor about concerns from viewings and provide relevant information you have received. Do not assume a low-cost quote offers the same inspection as a broader service. A report may recommend specialist follow-up rather than resolve every question itself.
Read the findings before the point your property professional identifies as binding, and discuss implications for the purchase with the relevant advisers. Scotland's Home Report arrangements also need to be understood in their own context. The quote comparison can organise fees and inclusions; it cannot select the right survey or interpret defects.
Put it into practice
Use the survey and conveyancing quote comparison to organise your own figures or next steps. Keep its assumptions alongside your plan.