For years, advisers have often seen surveys as something outside their core work. Some did not know enough about them. Some were unsure how to raise the topic. Others felt it was simpler not to get involved. That mindset is now shifting, and the change is overdue.
At conveybuddy, we have seen survey uptake rise fast. Since the start of 2025, our survey numbers have grown five-fold.
More advisers are bringing surveys into their day-to-day advice work. They are doing this because clients gain clear value and advisers gain a steady extra income line. A typical case pays between £100 and £150, and the process is smooth when handled through a specialist provider.
THE LIMITATIONS OF A VALUATION
The main point advisers are stressing is simple: the valuation for mortgage purposes does not protect the buyer. It is not a check of the property. It is only a view carried out for the lender’s use.
A client relying on this is buying without proper knowledge of the home’s condition. If there are defects, repair needs, or areas of concern, they may not learn about them until after they move in. By then, the cost sits with them and there is no room to adjust the price. This is why a proper survey matters.
The material we use from our survey partner, The Moving Portal, sets this out in clear terms. It explains the purpose of a RICS survey, the key differences between the levels, and the value delivered by each type. It also covers common issues such as damp, roof problems, structural movement, timber decay, and other visible or hidden defects.
These are the issues that cause stress and extra expense for clients if they are missed. The guide also notes that findings in the survey can support price talks when faults are found. All of this is very easy for advisers to pass on to clients in a short chat.
TACKLING IGNORANCE
Client reluctance usually comes from lack of understanding. Many have never bought before. Some think the lender’s valuation is enough. Others admit they do not know what the survey levels mean. This is where advisers can step in. They do not need a deep technical skill. They only need to explain what the survey does and why it helps reduce risk.
Adviser reluctance tends to fall into four areas. Some did not know how important surveys are. Some did not know they could offer them. Some felt unsure how to describe the survey levels. Some felt it added too much work.
None of these points stand up now. The tools are in place, the steps are clear, and the provider handles the detail. The adviser’s role is simply to raise the subject, check the client’s needs, and pass on the instruction.
The Moving Portal’s simple flow chart also helps advisers choose the right type. It shows how the age of the property, its condition, and any structural changes point toward either a Level 2 or Level 3 survey. This keeps things clear and avoids any confusion for the client.
ADVISER BENEFIT
For advisers, the gain is two-fold. First, clients avoid nasty shocks. Second, advisers add a clean and steady income line that fits neatly within their existing work. And if you instruct a survey with conveybuddy between now and the 14th December you get entered into a prize draw where the winner will get £1,000.
Surveys can be raised once the mortgage has been agreed in principle, or at the start of the property search to set clear expectations. Advisers who build this step into their process show they are acting in the client’s best interests by helping them understand all the risks linked to the purchase.
There is a clear chance here for advisers to do more. Surveys should not be seen as optional extras. They should form part of the core advice process for every client, particularly when you add in a Consumer Duty imperative.
With demand rising and more advisers waking up to the value survey advice offers, those who act now will help more clients, cut stress, and add clear, measurable value where it counts most.
