Booking a house survey is one of the most important steps in the property-buying journey—and sometimes, the results aren’t what you were hoping for. Whether you’re a homebuyer receiving a report filled with costly issues or a seller dealing with nervous buyers after a homebuyers survey, a bad house survey doesn’t have to mean the end of your property plans.
At Survey Network, we connect clients directly with RICS-qualified, self-employed surveyors across the UK who provide clear, detailed, and actionable insights. So if you’re facing an unsettling report, here’s how to navigate it like a pro—whether you're buying or selling.
For Buyers: What to Do When a House Survey Reveals Problems
1. Understand the Survey Findings
The first step is to fully understand your report. If you’ve booked a Level 2 Homebuyers Survey or a Level 3 Building Survey, your RICS surveyor should be available to explain everything you need to understand. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification - knowing what you’re dealing with is crucial.
Survey Network surveyors offer direct communication, so you always get the full picture without needing to go through intermediaries.
2. Prioritise the Issues
Separate issues into two categories:
- Urgent (structural problems, roof repairs, damp, subsidence)
- Non-urgent (cosmetic repairs, outdated fittings, redecorating)
A good surveyor will help you understand the severity and potential future cost of each issue.
3. Get Quotes from Professionals
Before panicking, get at least two quotes from reputable tradespeople for the major issues. This will help you understand the real cost and whether it's something you can absorb—or negotiate.
4. Use the Survey as a Negotiation Tool
One of the most powerful uses of a survey is to renegotiate the purchase price. If a structural issue or expensive repair is uncovered, you may ask the seller to either:
- Fix the issue before exchange, or
- Reduce the sale price to reflect the cost of necessary work
A clear, professional report from a RICS-accredited surveyor gives you the leverage to negotiate fairly.
5. Reconsider If Needed
Sometimes, walking away is the right move. If the repair costs are too high, or the seller isn’t willing to budge, your survey could save you from a costly mistake.
💬 “A home survey isn’t just about defects—it’s about giving buyers the power to make smart, confident decisions.”
— Luke Masters, Founder of Survey Network
For Sellers: What to Do If a Survey Discourages Buyers
1. Be Proactive
If you suspect your property might raise concerns in a house survey, consider arranging your own pre-sale RICS survey. This allows you to:
- Fix key issues in advance
- Adjust your asking price accordingly
- Provide reassurance to potential buyers
2. Be Honest and Transparent
Disclose known issues up front - it builds trust and can prevent delays later. Buyers appreciate honesty, and it often leads to smoother negotiations.
3. Get a Second Opinion
Think a buyer’s survey is overly harsh? You can commission your own RICS building survey for comparison. Survey Network’s self-employed surveyors provide independent assessments you can trust.
4. Communicate and Collaborate
Don’t shut down the conversation. If your buyer receives a troubling report, be open to:
- Splitting the cost of urgent repairs
- Offering a price reduction
- Providing quotes from your own contractors
5. Reevaluate Your Selling Strategy
If a bad survey is blocking your sale, it may be time to:
- Lower your price
- Repair the most pressing issues
- Offer the property to cash buyers or investors
💬 “Even if a survey reveals unexpected issues, it opens the door to solutions. With the right support, every challenge becomes manageable.”
— Ben Jackman, RICS Surveyor with Survey Network
✅ Why Use Survey Network for Your House Survey?
At Survey Network, we believe in smarter, more transparent surveying. Here’s why homebuyers and sellers choose us:
✔ Direct access to local, self-employed RICS surveyors
✔ Faster bookings and clear communication
✔ Level 2 and Level 3 surveys tailored to your needs
✔ Transparent reporting and post-survey support
📌 Final Thoughts: A Bad Survey Isn’t the End
Whether you’re buying or selling, a bad survey report should be seen as an opportunity—not a disaster. With expert guidance, clear communication, and the right negotiation strategies, even a worrying survey can lead to a successful outcome for all parties.
If you're unsure where to turn, let Survey Network help. We’ll connect you with an experienced RICS surveyor near you who can guide you through the process with confidence.
Call us on 0118 324 0748 or book your survey online today.
