Countrywide Surveying Services (CSS) has revealed a continued rise in the number of homebuyers commissioning home condition surveys, signalling a shift in buyer behaviour towards greater diligence and long-term financial protection.
According to the latest figures from its Home Survey Trends Index for Q1 2025, 15% of homebuyers instructed a home condition survey as part of their purchase.
This represented a 5% increase on the same period last year, where just 10% of buyers commissioned a home condition survey.
While activity has remained steady since Q4 2024, the year-on-year growth is a clear indication that more buyers are recognising the value of understanding a property’s condition before fully committing to the purchase.
The index, which covers property transactions across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, included data from those selecting either a RICS Home Survey Level 2 or Level 3.
The average value of a property where buyers opted for a Level 2 survey in Q1 2025 was £295,000, slightly down from £300,000 in the previous quarter.
Correspondingly, the average fee also dipped to £450, compared to £480 in Q4 2024.
In contrast, the average property value for those choosing a more in-depth RICS Home Survey Level 3 climbed to £445,000, up from £400,000.
The average fee for this survey also rose slightly, increasing from £890 to £910.
This rise reflects the type of properties that typically require more detailed inspections – often older, more complex, or unique homes.
Regionally, the North West continued to lead the way, recording the highest uptake of RICS Home Survey Level 2 instructions at 19%.
Meanwhile, both the South East and West Midlands shared top spot for Level 3 surveys, each registering a 14% uptake.
At the other end of the scale, the lowest levels of uptake for both Level 2 and Level 3 surveys were seen in the North, at 5% and 4% respectively.
Matthew Cumber, managing director at Countrywide Surveying Services, said: “It’s encouraging to see that more homebuyers are recognising the importance of home condition surveys when making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.
“Although month-on-month activity is steady, the year-on-year rise is promising and reflects a broader trend towards more informed, risk-aware decision making.
“For intermediaries, this represents a real opportunity to add value. By guiding clients toward home condition surveys advisers can help safeguard their purchases and build trust.
“It’s not just about securing a mortgage; it’s about protecting the long-term interests of the buyer and their homes.”
