A Home Insight Survey is commissioned by a property owner before marketing their home. It helps the seller understand visible condition issues that a buyer’s survey may later identify, allowing time to investigate, repair or explain important matters before a transaction is under pressure.

Why arrange a survey before selling?

Unexpected survey findings can lead to delays, requests for further reports, price renegotiation or a buyer withdrawing. A pre-sale survey cannot guarantee that a sale will proceed, but earlier information can reduce avoidable surprises and support a clearer, better-prepared transaction.

What can a seller do with the findings?

• Carry out proportionate repairs before photographs and viewings.
• Obtain specialist reports or quotations where further investigation is advised.
• Collect guarantees, approvals and maintenance records for the conveyancer.
• Explain historic or non-urgent defects accurately to prospective buyers.
• Budget for work rather than facing an unexpected late price reduction.
• Market the property with a more informed understanding of its condition.

What does the inspection consider?

The surveyor considers the accessible roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, rainwater goods, visible services, damp evidence, movement, safety concerns and relevant external areas. The scope depends on the property and agreed service. Concealed construction and inaccessible areas cannot be confirmed without further investigation.

Local property considerations in Canterbury

Older and altered properties may involve solid walls, suspended timber floors, traditional roofs, damp risks, historic movement and later extensions. Coastal exposure is also relevant in parts of East Kent. Identifying such matters before marketing gives sellers time to obtain appropriate advice rather than responding after a buyer’s survey.

Does the report replace the buyer’s survey?

A buyer remains free to commission independent advice. Whether another party may rely on a seller-commissioned report depends on its terms, the surveyor’s agreement and any applicable professional requirements. The service should never be presented as a guarantee or used to conceal a known defect.

When should it be arranged?

Ideally, arrange the inspection before the estate agent launches the property. This leaves time for repairs, quotations, supporting documents and considered disclosure. Urgent or safety-related matters should be addressed by appropriately qualified contractors.

Frequently asked questions

Will a Home Insight Survey stop a sale falling through?

No survey can guarantee a transaction, but identifying condition issues earlier can reduce the risk of late surprises and rushed renegotiation.

Must every defect be repaired before marketing?

No. Some defects are minor or reflect normal age. The report helps distinguish priorities and decide whether to repair, investigate, obtain a quotation or disclose the matter clearly.

Can I show the report to an estate agent or buyer?

You can discuss sharing, copyright and reliance arrangements when commissioning the survey. Do not promise that a buyer can rely on it unless the written terms allow this.

How much does a Home Insight Survey cost?

The fee depends on the property’s age, size, construction, condition and required reporting scope. Request a written quotation using the site enquiry form or call 01227 671765.

Planning to sell in Canterbury? Contact Canterbury Building Surveyors before marketing to discuss the appropriate pre-sale inspection and receive a written quotation.