Buying a home is one of the most significant financial commitments you’ll make, and the process involves several key stages before completion. One of the most crucial steps is the home survey, which provides buyers with an expert assessment of the property’s condition. But what happens after the survey? How long does it take to reach completion, and what factors can speed up or delay the process?
This guide breaks down the typical timeline following a house survey and explains why an RICS home survey is essential to making informed decisions and ensuring a smooth property transaction.
Why Is a Home Survey Important?
A home survey is a critical step in the buying process, helping buyers avoid costly surprises after moving in. Conducted by an RICS-qualified surveyor, a survey provides an expert assessment of the property’s condition, highlighting any structural issues, damp problems, or maintenance concerns that could impact your purchase.
Key Benefits of an RICS Home Survey
- Identifies defects that could affect the property’s value or require immediate repairs.
- Helps buyers renegotiate the purchase price based on survey findings.
- Provides peace of mind, ensuring you understand exactly what you are buying.
- Offers expert recommendations on necessary repairs and future maintenance.
- Reduces the risk of unexpected post-purchase costs by providing a clear picture of the property’s condition.
What Happens After the Survey?
Once the survey is completed, the results are sent to the buyer, typically within a few days. What happens next depends on the survey’s findings. Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect after receiving the report:
Reviewing the Survey & Report (1-5 Days)
Buyers should carefully review the report, focusing on any urgent repairs, potential risks, or areas requiring further investigation. If the survey identifies serious issues, consulting with a solicitor, the surveyor, or a tradesperson for further advice is recommended.
At this stage, some buyers may need additional specialist reports, such as damp or structural inspections, if the surveyor has flagged concerns. Arranging these additional reports quickly can prevent unnecessary delays.
Negotiating Based on Survey Findings (1-2 Weeks)
If the survey highlights significant defects, buyers have three main options:
- Proceed as planned if the issues are minor.
- Renegotiate the purchase price to reflect repair costs.
- Request that the seller carry out repairs before completion.
This stage can take a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity of negotiations and the seller’s willingness to adjust the price or make repairs. Some sellers may resist lowering the price, leading to extended discussions. Having clear evidence from the survey helps buyers make a strong case for renegotiation.
Finalising Contracts and Exchange (8-12 Weeks)
Once negotiations are complete and financing is in place, solicitors work on the contract. Key steps include:
- Undertaking local searches.
- Drafting legal documents.
- Negotiating and checking legal documents and resolving any outstanding issues.
- Ensuring all agreed conditions, such as repairs or price reductions, are documented.
- Conducting final checks on the mortgage agreement.
During this stage, buyers will also need to arrange building insurance, which is often a requirement before contracts can be exchanged. Additionally, if the survey uncovered any legal concerns, such as boundary disputes or planning permission issues, these must be resolved before moving forward.
When both parties are satisfied, contracts are exchanged, and a completion date is set. This stage can sometimes be delayed if the seller is part of a chain, so buyers should maintain regular communication with their solicitor to track progress.
Completion and Moving In (1-2 Weeks After Exchange)
On the agreed completion date, funds are transferred, and the buyer receives the keys. The property officially changes ownership, marking the final stage of the purchase.
The time between exchange and completion can vary depending on the buyer and seller’s circumstances. Some buyers prefer a quick turnaround, while others may need extra time to arrange moving logistics. For buyers purchasing with a mortgage, lenders will release funds to the solicitor, who then transfers the money to the seller. Once this is confirmed, the sale is legally completed.
How Long Does the Entire Process Take?
From the home survey to completion, the timeline varies based on factors such as:
- The complexity of survey findings.
- Negotiation outcomes.
- Mortgage lender requirements.
- The efficiency of solicitors handling the transaction.
On average, buyers can expect completion to take between 10 to 14 weeks after the survey, but in some cases, it can take longer if further investigations or renegotiations are needed. If additional reports or legal queries arise, it may extend the process to 10 weeks or more.
How Can I Speed Up the Process?
While some delays are unavoidable, there are steps buyers can take to help ensure a smooth transaction:
- Choose an RICS-registered surveyor to ensure a fast and professional assessment.
- Be proactive with negotiations and communicate promptly with the seller and solicitor.
- Have a mortgage in principle agreed before the survey to avoid delays.
- Book follow-up inspections quickly if additional checks are needed.
- Ensure all legal paperwork is in order early to prevent solicitor-related delays.
- Stay in regular contact with your mortgage provider to keep things moving efficiently.
A home survey is a vital step in the house-buying process, helping buyers make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses. While the timeline for completion after a survey varies, understanding each stage can help buyers navigate the process with confidence.
Ensuring you work with experienced surveyors, solicitors, and mortgage advisors can help streamline the process. Preparation, prompt action on survey findings, and maintaining clear communication with all parties involved will make completing your home purchase as smooth as possible.Get in touch with Survey Hut today for a comprehensive Home Survey. We are held to the highest professional standards by the RICS, so you know that you’ll get a high-quality report. Make sure your perfect home, is perfect.
