Buying timeline
When should you book the house survey?
In England and Wales, the practical window is usually after the seller accepts your offer and early enough to act on the report before exchange.
1. Offer accepted
RICS recommends arranging the survey after your offer is accepted. At this point the transaction is active, but in England and Wales the offer is not legally binding until contracts are exchanged.
2. Choose the level and surveyor
Share the property details and concerns, compare written scopes and confirm availability. Ask both when the inspection can take place and when the report will arrive.
3. Review before exchange
Allow time to read the report, ask questions and arrange specialist investigation or repair estimates if needed. Findings may affect your decision, budget or negotiations, but outcomes depend on the transaction and professional advice.
Scotland is different
Scottish sellers normally provide a Home Report before marketing. The process and documents are different, so this England-and-Wales timeline should not be treated as Scottish guidance.
Prepare questions for survey quotations →
Sources: GOV.UK buying a home and RICS consumer guide. Reviewed 9 September 2026.