Understanding Your Survey Report: A Guide for Homebuyers

Make Informed Decisions with Confidence

Booking a home survey is one of the smartest steps a buyer can take—but once you receive the report, it’s not always clear what to do next. At LEM Building Surveying Ltd, we believe your survey report should empower you, not overwhelm you.

This guide breaks down what to expect from your survey report and how to interpret it so you can move forward with clarity.

What’s Included in a Typical Home Survey Report?

• A summary of the property’s condition
• Highlights of any defects, issues, or safety concerns
• Photos and notes on specific problems (e.g. damp, movement, roof condition)
• Maintenance advice and suggested actions
• Traffic light-style ratings (usually red/amber/green) to prioritise urgency

The report is designed to give you a full picture of what you're buying—beyond what you can see during viewings.

What Do Red, Amber, and Green Ratings Mean?

• Green: No significant issues—standard upkeep should be enough.
• Amber: Some repairs or maintenance needed in the short-to-medium term.
• Red: Urgent issues, defects, or risks that may be costly or dangerous if left untreated.

Don’t panic if you see red ratings—some can be negotiated with the seller or handled over time. What matters is knowing what you're dealing with.

Can I Use the Report to Negotiate?

Yes—and many buyers do. If the report highlights serious issues (like damp, timber decay, roof damage, or structural problems), you may be able to:

• Renegotiate the purchase price
• Request that repairs are made before exchange
• Walk away with confidence if the risks outweigh the value

A clear, unbiased report gives you the facts you need to protect your investment.

Common Follow-Up Questions We Get

• Do I need to act on every red item immediately? Not always—we explain the urgency of each one.
• Can I speak to you about the report? Absolutely. Liam is happy to walk you through the findings.
• Is this report suitable for mortgage or legal purposes? Yes. All our surveys comply with RICS Home Survey Standards.

How LEM Makes Reports Easy to Understand

• Straightforward, jargon-free language
• Helpful summaries and clear next steps
• One-on-one support if you need help interpreting anything

Whether this is your first home or your fifth, we make sure you feel confident and informed.

Buying in Chester, Wrexham, Flintshire or Cheshire?

We provide detailed, buyer-friendly home surveys across Deeside, Chester, Wrexham, Flintshire, and the wider North West region.

Ready to Book?

Call Liam on 07378 732037 or submit a quick enquiry to get started.

Know exactly what you’re buying—and what to do about it.