Home Surveys and Valuations
Buying a property is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, and understanding exactly what you’re getting is essential. Whether you’re not sure where to start or you just need to compare your options, you’re in the right place.
Property Survey
A property survey gives you a clear, professional assessment of a home’s condition before you commit to buying. It identifies any issues, helps you understand the risks, and gives you the confidence to move forward. If you’re not sure which type of survey is right for you, start here.
General Valuation
A general valuation gives you a surveyor’s professional opinion on the market value of a property. It’s commonly used for Help to Buy exit valuations, inheritance tax purposes, and remortgage decisions. This is not a condition report and does not assess the property’s state of repair.
Comparing RICS Survey Levels
If you already know you want a RICS survey and you’re deciding between Level 2 and Level 3, our dedicated RICS survey page walks you through the difference and helps you choose the right level for your property type.
Why Choose Countrywide Home Surveys?
Countrywide Home Surveys is regulated by RICS, which means every report meets the highest professional standards. Our nationwide network of RICS Qualified Surveyors combines UK-wide coverage with genuine local knowledge, so whoever carries out your survey understands the area and the property type. We operate independently from lenders and estate agents, so the advice you receive is entirely objective.
Customer Reviews
Ready to Book Your Survey?
A property survey is one of the most straightforward ways to protect yourself when buying a home. Knowing what you are buying before you commit gives you the confidence to proceed or the evidence to negotiate.
Frequently Asked Questions
A survey assesses the condition of a property and identifies defects, risks, or areas that need attention. A valuation provides a professional opinion on what the property is worth in the current market. They serve different purposes: a survey protects you from unexpected repair costs, while a valuation confirms market value for financial or legal decisions. Some survey products include a valuation as an add-on, but the two are not interchangeable.
The right survey depends on the property you're buying and how much detail you need. For a standard, modern home in good condition, a RICS Home Survey Level 2 covers the most common defects clearly and concisely. For older, larger, or more complex properties, or anywhere you want a thorough assessment before committing, a RICS Home Survey Level 3 provides a more detailed inspection. If you're unsure, speak to one of our advisors, and they'll point you in the right direction.
Yes. Whether you are getting a mortgage or not, a survey is always in your interest as a buyer. Without one, you have no professional assessment of the property's condition before you complete. A survey can identify issues that affect the value or the safety of the property, giving you the information you need to proceed with confidence, renegotiate, or walk away if necessary.