Structural survey: when is it wise?

A home can look perfect during a viewing, while there are defects beneath the surface. A structural survey gives you insight into the home's actual condition. That way you know in advance what costs to expect, and you can adjust your offer accordingly.

What is a structural survey?

During a structural survey, a building specialist walks through the entire home. He assesses the foundation (as far as visible), the roof, the façades, window frames, the installations and the finishing. Afterwards you receive a report with the defects, their urgency and an indication of repair costs.

When is it wise?

A survey is extra useful for older homes, homes with visibly deferred maintenance, or homes that haven't been renovated for a long time. A survey can also be worthwhile for newer homes, for example if you have doubts about the finishing or the installations. For an apartment, the survey mainly focuses on the apartment itself, while the shared parts run through the VvE. Read more about that in our article on the VvE.

Before or after the offer?

You can have a survey carried out before making an offer. Then you know exactly what you're buying. In a tight market that's not always possible. That's why the survey is often included as a dissolving condition in the purchase agreement. If a serious defect turns out to exist, you can dissolve the purchase under certain conditions. Discuss with your buying agent what's wise in your situation.

What is examined?

A standard survey includes, among other things, the roof, the gutters, the façades and the pointing, the window frames and windows, the floors and the crawl space, the electrical installation, the central heating installation and the ventilation. Sometimes additional research is advised, for example into the foundation or asbestos in older homes.

The seller's disclosure obligation

A seller must disclose defects he knows about that hinder normal use of the home. At the same time, as a buyer you have a duty to investigate. That means you also need to look yourself at matters you could reasonably have seen. A survey helps you meet that duty of investigation.

Using the report in negotiations

The report is a good tool in negotiations. If it lists major costs in the short term, that can be a reason to adjust your offer. Your agent translates the findings into a realistic rationale. Also read our tips on bidding smartly.

After the purchase

The report also has value after the purchase. You can use it as a maintenance schedule for the coming years. Want to improve the home right away? Our specialists in renovation will help you get started.

Buying with certainty

Don't let yourself be surprised after the key handover. Our buying agents advise you on survey, valuation and conditions. Also read why a valuation is needed, or get in touch.

How long does a survey take?

A structural survey usually takes one to a few hours, depending on the size and condition of the home. You can often be present yourself and ask questions directly. You usually receive the report within a few days. Plan the survey on time, especially if it's included as a dissolving condition in the purchase agreement.

A survey for new-build homes

For new-build homes, too, a completion inspection can be worthwhile. A specialist then checks whether the home has been properly finished and built according to the agreements. Any defects are recorded, so the builder has to fix them. That way you prevent small and larger errors from being overlooked at the moment you receive the keys.