What Surveyors Look For During a Home Inspection

[Shane Barker]

Buying a property is one of the biggest financial commitments most people make. In the UK, a home inspection carried out by a qualified surveyor plays a crucial role in helping buyers understand the true condition of a property before contracts are exchanged. Whether you are purchasing a modern home or a period property, knowing what surveyors look for during a home inspection can save you from unexpected repair costs and future structural issues.

This guide explains what is checked during a residential building survey, why it matters, and how professional surveying services such as Surveying People help buyers make informed decisions.

What Is a Residential Building Survey?

A residential building survey is the most comprehensive type of property inspection available in the UK. It is designed to assess the overall condition of a property, identify defects, and highlight potential risks that could affect its value or safety.

Unlike more basic reports, a building survey is particularly recommended for:

• Older or character properties
  
• Homes that have been altered or extended
  
• Listed buildings
  
• Properties in visibly poor condition
  
  

Surveyors provide detailed findings and practical advice, allowing buyers to fully understand the property they are investing in.

What Surveyors Look For During a Home Inspection

Surveyors follow a structured approach when inspecting a property. Their goal is to assess visible and accessible areas while identifying signs of underlying problems.

Roof Condition and Chimneys

The roof is one of the first areas a surveyor examines. Roof repairs can be costly, so identifying issues early is essential.

Surveyors look for:

• Broken or missing tiles
  
• Sagging roof lines
  
• Poor drainage and blocked gutters
  
• Condition of flashing around chimneys
  
• Chimney stability and weathering
  
  

Problems here can indicate long-term neglect or future maintenance expenses.

External Walls and Brickwork

The external structure of the property provides important clues about its overall condition.

Surveyors inspect:

• Cracks in brickwork or render
  
• Signs of movement or subsidence
  
• Deteriorating pointing
  
• Weather damage and staining
  
  

Hairline cracks may be cosmetic, but wider cracks can indicate structural movement that requires further investigation.

Foundations and Structural Integrity

Although foundations are not fully exposed, surveyors assess visible indicators of structural stability.

They look for:

• Uneven floors
  
• Sloping walls
  
• Large or stepped cracks
  
• Doors and windows that no longer align properly
  
  

Structural concerns are among the most serious findings in a building survey, as they can significantly affect property value and safety.

Damp, Condensation, and Mould

Damp is one of the most common issues found in UK homes. Surveyors are trained to identify different types of moisture problems.

During the inspection, they assess:

• Rising damp near ground level
  
• Penetrating damp from external walls
  
• Condensation due to poor ventilation
  
• Signs of mould growth
  
  

Unresolved damp can lead to timber decay, health issues, and expensive remedial work.

Windows, Doors, and Joinery

Surveyors check the condition and performance of windows and doors, particularly in older properties.

They examine:

• Timber decay or warping
  
• Failed seals on double glazing
  
• Draughts and heat loss
  
• Poorly fitted frames
  
  

These elements affect both energy efficiency and security.

Internal Walls, Ceilings, and Floors

Inside the property, surveyors assess visible finishes and structural indicators.

They look for:

• Cracks in plasterwork
  
• Uneven or bouncy floors
  
• Signs of previous structural alterations
  
• Water staining on ceilings
  
  

These issues may point to underlying structural movement or leaks.

Electrical Systems (Visual Assessment)

While surveyors do not carry out full electrical testing, they visually assess the system’s condition.

They identify:

• Outdated fuse boxes
  
• Surface-mounted wiring
  
• Poorly executed DIY work
  
  

If concerns are found, the surveyor will recommend further inspection by a qualified electrician.

Plumbing and Drainage

Plumbing issues can be disruptive and costly if left unresolved.

Surveyors inspect:

• Visible pipework
  
• Signs of leaks
  
• Water pressure at taps
  
• Drainage flow and blockages
  
  

Older properties often have outdated plumbing that may need upgrading.

Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is increasingly important for UK homeowners.

Surveyors assess:

• Loft insulation levels
  
• Draughts around openings
  
• General heat loss indicators
  
  

A residential building survey often includes practical advice on improving energy performance.

Common Problems Found During UK Home Inspections

Some of the most frequently identified issues include:

• Damp and timber decay
  
• Roof deterioration
  
• Structural movement
  
• Poor workmanship from previous renovations
  
  

Understanding these risks allows buyers to renegotiate the purchase price or plan future repairs.

Why Surveying Professionals Matter

Choosing an experienced surveyor is essential. Professional surveyors provide independent, unbiased advice that protects buyers from making costly mistakes.

Trusted firms such as Surveying People combine technical expertise with local knowledge, ensuring inspections are thorough, accurate, and easy to understand. Their reports help buyers feel confident about their decisions.

What Happens After the Building Survey?

Once the inspection is complete, the surveyor provides a detailed report outlining:

• Defects found
  
• Severity of issues
  
• Recommended repairs
  
• Maintenance advice
  
  

Buyers can use this information to negotiate with sellers, budget for repairs, or reconsider the purchase if necessary.

How a Building Survey Protects Homebuyers

A professional building survey offers:

• Financial protection
  
• Peace of mind
  
• A clear understanding of the property’s condition
  
• Long-term planning insights
  
  

For many buyers, it is an essential step rather than an optional extra.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in a residential building survey?
It includes a detailed inspection of the property’s structure, condition, defects, and maintenance requirements.

Is a building survey worth it?
Yes, especially for older or altered properties where hidden issues may exist.

Do surveyors check electrics and plumbing?
Surveyors visually inspect these systems but recommend specialist testing where needed.

Conclusion

Understanding what surveyors look for during a home inspection helps buyers approach the UK property market with confidence. A residential building survey provides invaluable insight into a property’s condition, highlights potential risks, and supports informed decision-making.

Working with experienced professionals like Surveying People ensures your building survey delivers clarity, protection, and long-term value, making it one of the smartest investments you can make when buying a home.