Increasing numbers of buyers are taking out home condition surveys to avoid any nasty surprises when they move into their property. Helen Stead looks at why they are becoming so popular
Buying a home remains one of the biggest financial and emotional commitments most people will make.
While location, layout and mortgage rates often take priority, the actual condition of the property can often be overlooked, yet this is precisely where costly surprises are most likely to surface.
A home condition survey helps bring those issues to light and can prove invaluable in the decision-making process.
Thankfully, recent research by Compare My Move shows that more buyers are taking this seriously.
In the first half of 2025, the number of people requesting Level 2 and Level 3 surveys rose by 83% compared to the same period last year. Most opted for a Level 2 survey, which covers key issues like walls, roofs, plumbing, and electrics, ideal for conventional homes in reasonable condition.
Uncovering problems – how a survey can benefit you
One of the clearest benefits of getting a survey is that it can highlight problems that may not be visible during viewings.
Among those who commissioned a survey, 35% managed to negotiate a reduction in the asking price, saving an average of £6,390.22.
That’s a significant sum, especially when dealing with the high costs of moving and affordability concerns from a borrowing perspective.
The most common issues uncovered were roof defects and electrical faults (32% each), followed by damp (22%). These aren’t minor fixes. Left unresolved, they can lead to larger repairs and financial strain shortly after moving in.
A home condition survey gives you the chance to address these findings with the seller or walk away if the risks outweigh the value.
Demand from buyers for more transparency
There’s also growing public support for structural reform. Additional data for Compare my More outlined that more than half of people in England and Wales (52%) believe sellers should commission a survey before listing, similar to the system already in place in Scotland.
Among those in favour, 76% said it would provide clearer insight into the property’s condition earlier in the process. These preferences point to a demand for greater transparency and could reshape how transactions are structured in future.
These findings highlight that a home condition survey is not just about ticking a box, it’s a way to take greater control of your purchase. The cost of a survey varies depending on the size and value of the property, but it is often small in comparison to the potential savings and peace of mind it can bring.
Which types of property require a survey?
If you’re buying a property that’s older, has had multiple renovations, or just gives you pause for thought, it’s worth investing in a survey. Even new homes can benefit from inspection, particularly when it comes to spotting build quality issues or hidden defects.
Speak to your adviser or solicitor early in the process about your options. They can help you decide which 
level of survey is appropriate for your situation and recommend qualified professionals to carry it out.
With more buyers recognising the benefits, commissioning a home condition survey is increasingly seen as an important and practical step that helps protect both your finances and your future home.
Helen Stead is head of Countrywide Home Surveys at Countrywide Surveying Services
