Homebuyer Survey and Valuation (HBSV) report
The HBSV offers a wide ranging, but still concise, appraisal of the property. It may enable you to renegotiate the purchase price or at least allow you to budget for repairs. It can also help identify points that your solicitor may need to investigate.
The report is undertaken by a qualified Surveyor who will offer an opinion of value, bearing in mind the report’s findings.
What this report will do
The report is designed for houses and bungalows normally not older than 125 years, no larger than 2500 sq.ft (232 m2), of traditional construction and form. Suitability of properties beyond these guidelines should be discussed directly with the Surveyor. It can cover flats, both purpose built and converted, but here it will be necessary for you to agree with the Surveyor the extent of inspection to other parts of the building or block required.
The report will point out significant but NOT minor defects. All visible and accessible areas of the property will be inspected including the roof space if there is a suitable hatch. There will be no inspection of the under-floor, or close inspection of roof/wall faces above 10ft (3m) in height. Fitted carpets, furniture and vendors’ personal effects cannot be moved, unless the vendor moves them. Similarly, as the Surveyor is not an electrician or plumber, services such as wiring, water supply or central heating are not tested, although a comment on their apparent condition is made.
The HBSV report is provided in a standard format, logical in sequence and easy to follow. The valuation advises on whether the price agreed is realistic in view of the property’s apparent condition and the property market in general.
Homebuyer Survey and Valuation report - Scale of Fees
| Purchase price (£) inc. VAT | Survey Fee (£)inc. VAT |
| Up to 75,000 | 290.00 |
| 75,001 to 100,000 | 340.00 |
| 100,001 to 150,000 | 390.00 |
| 150,001 to 200,000 | 460.00 |
| 200,001 to 250,000 | 510.00 |
| 250,001 to 350,000 | 565.00 |
| 350,001 to 500,000 | 610.00 |
| 500,001 to 650,000 | 665.00 |
| 650,001 to 800,000 | 725.00 |
| 800,001 to 1,000,000 | 800.00 |
| Over 1,000,000 | By arrangement |
These charges are non-refundable and include an administration fee of £30.00.
The report is based on the standard RICS condition of engagement as set out on the separate Survey Request Form (opens in new window, pdf format, 108k) which requires your signature.
Other survey options
