There are three types of survey:
Inspection report and valuation
Most people will opt for this as it is the cheapest of all three surveys. The report will say what the property is worth and any basic issues that the surveyor has with it. The surveyor will not look at inaccessible parts of the property like the roof and drains unless there is a serious defect.
Homebuyer survey and valuation
This is carried out by a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. This report is concise and gives a general opinion of the quality and condition of the property. This is a useful report for when time is short or money is tight. The valuer will discuss whether the purchase price is realistic and will give opinion on market of the property.
Building survey
This is based on a detailed technical examination and viewing of the property and will include tests on services. It will look at concealed areas and inaccessible areas of the property. The report will give advice on repairs that need doing. Normally people do these surveys on older properties and it is strongly recommended on properties over 100 years old.
More first-time house buying articles: