FAQs - Page 2 of 2 - Real Surveying

Q: How long does a home survey take?

The time spent on site during a house survey depends on the property’s size, age, and complexity. Most inspections take between one and four hours. Smaller, modern homes are quicker to assess, while older or extended properties naturally require more detailed inspection. Although the site visit itself may be completed in a few hours, the surveyor then needs time to analyse findings and produce a thorough report which takes additional hours. This ensures the advice you receive is accurate, considered, and genuinely useful rather than rushed.

Q: What’s the difference between a survey and a valuation?

A valuation focuses on what a property is worth at a specific point in time using comparable evidence, while a survey looks at the condition of the building itself. A valuation won’t tell you if there are damp problems, roof defects, or structural concerns, whereas a survey will. Surveys are designed to protect buyers by identifying risks and repair issues. Some surveys include a valuation, but the two serve different purposes, one helps determine price, the other determines the condition.

Q: Why would I need a valuation?

You may need a valuation report to obtain an independent opinion of a property’s value. This is commonly required for Help to Buy, probate, shared ownership, legal matters, or simply to ensure you’re paying a fair price for a property you’re purchasing.