Building Survey FAQS

A building survey (formerly known as a full structural survey) is the most detailed type of property inspection available. It provides a comprehensive assessment of a property’s condition, highlighting structural issues, defects, maintenance requirements, and potential repair costs.

Yes – even if you’re buying in cash. A building survey protects your investment by revealing problems you might not spot yourself, such as damp, subsidence, or roof defects. Without a lender involved, you’re fully responsible for ensuring the property is sound, so a professional survey is highly recommended.

While not essential, commissioning a survey before selling can help you identify and address potential issues in advance. It can make your property more appealing to buyers, avoid last-minute renegotiations, and speed up the sale process.

It’s still a good idea. Even new builds can have defects (known as “snagging issues”). A professional snagging inspection or building survey can identify poor workmanship or unfinished details before your builder’s warranty period expires.

A HomeBuyer Report is a mid-level survey that highlights visible defects and gives a condition rating system (traffic light format).
A Building Survey goes much deeper — it inspects all accessible areas, identifies structural problems, explains causes, and offers advice on repairs and maintenance.
Generally, older, larger, or altered properties are best suited to a full building survey.

Mortgage lenders usually require a mortgage valuation, not a survey. This valuation is for the lender’s benefit, to confirm the property is worth the loan amount. It won’t tell you about the building’s condition. For your own protection, you should arrange an independent HomeBuyer Report or Building Survey with a chartered surveyor like Price Lilford.

A survey gives you a clear picture of the property’s condition before you commit to buying. It helps you:
Understand any major defects or hidden issues.
Negotiate the purchase price or request repairs.
Budget accurately for future maintenance.
Make a fully informed decision with confidence.

A building survey typically covers:
– Structural integrity (walls, roofs, foundations).
– Damp, timber decay, and subsidence.
– Roofing, insulation, drainage, and plumbing.
– Signs of movement or settlement.
– Condition of external areas such as chimneys and joinery.
You’ll receive a detailed written report outlining findings, risks, and recommended actions.

Most surveys take between 2 and 5 hours on-site, depending on the property’s size and complexity. The full written report is usually delivered within 5–7 working days.

The cost depends on the size, type, and location of the property, as well as the level of detail required. At Price Lilford, we provide clear, upfront quotes with no hidden fees — ensuring you get the right survey for your property and budget.

Yes – if significant issues are discovered, buyers often use the findings to renegotiate the price or request repairs before completion. A detailed report from a trusted chartered surveyor ensures you have the facts to make a fair decision.

Yes, particularly if the building is older or converted. A building survey or HomeBuyer Report will assess both your flat and the shared structure (such as the roof and communal areas), helping you understand potential costs and liabilities.

Yes, many clients like to meet the surveyor on-site. It’s a great opportunity to discuss any particular concerns and get professional insight into the property’s condition.

Always choose a RICS Chartered Surveyor (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors). Price Lilford’s team in Canterbury are fully qualified RICS members with extensive local knowledge and experience across Kent properties.

Simply contact our Canterbury office to discuss your property and the most suitable survey type. We’ll provide a clear quote and arrange a convenient date for your inspection.