Which type of survey to choose?

kitchensink_2

Well eventally we have had an offer accepted on a house -way-hay!!!!

I was just wondering what people think about the different types of survey as this bit is all new to me and I could do with some help. I know there are 3 types, a standard valuation (appro £250-325), homebuyers (approx £500-550) and structural (approx £1200?).

Any thoughts about which one to choose? The house we are buying is 9 years old....

ellersb

Congrats!!!
Your mortgage company will do the standard valuation I'd have thought - on one that age, you could always ask them if the person doing that valuation could bump it up to homebuyers.
I really wouldn't worry about structural - it's generally recommended for a property over 90 years old (iirc).

Emmzi

at 9 years old it still has a year of NHBC guarantee on it? So myself I'd go for a level 2 which should reveal any *serious* structural issues. Level 3 IMHO more appropriate for aged properties, but would give extra peace of mind if you are a nervous type!

Level 1 is valuation only and other than that, nothing too useful in it.

kitchensink_2

thanks very much!

tbs624

See the RICS guide here (don't let the pictures of the gurning Phil Spencer put you off ) Ask around for personal recommendations if going for a Home Buyers Report - some surveyors will do more than they are strictly required to.

kitchensink_2

thanks for the link tbs - i read it with one eye shut to try avoid the gurning phil - shocking pics! :eek:

I was under the impression the homebuyer survey had to be done via your mortgage company but it looks like you can get someone independantly - would this mean you would have to pay your valuation fee to the mortgage company on top? (sorry if I missed this bit, was slightly put off by phil!)

:rotfl:

marybishop

Valuation is completely separate from a survey - it's for the lender to make sure the property exists and that they will get their money back if you default on your mortgage.

There are only two types of survey - full structural survey and homebuyers survey & valuation. You can commission your own independent survey - you don't have to go through your lender - that way you can compare prices.