What is a home report, and why do I need one?

If you’ve been thinking about buying or selling a property in Scotland, then you’ll need to know why a home report is so important. Read on to find out more.

What is a home report?

A home report is a document created for the sale of a property in Scotland by a RICS qualified Surveyor (RICS). It’s designed to give buyers useful and necessary information regarding the condition of the property they are considering buying, as well as providing any additional property information. The report is split into three parts – a single survey and valuation, a property questionnaire and an energy report.

Every seller of a residential property in Scotland is required to provide a home report upon request. Any such request must be actioned by the seller within nine days of receipt.*

How much does a home report cost?

The cost of a home report depends on the size of the property you’re selling and its value. For this reason, it’s best to talk to a property professional - call one of our local experts today.

Who needs a home report?

If you’re selling a residential property in Scotland, you need to commission a home report from a RICS qualified surveyor. The surveyor will then produce a report for your property that must be included in your documents of sale.

There are some exceptions, where certain types of property don’t need a home report and others where sellers may choose not to give buyers the home report. For more information, visit the Scottish Government page here.

What information does the home report include?

The report provides potential buyers, as well as the seller, detailed information about the property for sale. It’s split into three sections:

Single survey and valuation – a visual inspection informing about the home’s condition and any urgent or non-urgent repairs that may be needed.
Property questionnaire – covers 16 categories with information on the home’s council tax band, extensions and other alterations that have been made to the property, as well as past fire or storm damage and asbestos.
Energy report – informs readers about the property’s energy usage, including average cost and environmental impact.*

What’s the difference between a single survey and a RICS level 2 survey?

The single survey included in the home report is the same as a RICS level 2 survey.

Why do I need a home report?

The home report is designed to inform sellers and potential buyers of the current state of the property. It offers both buyers and sellers the level of detail required to make an informed decision on a property purchase.

Can I refuse to provide a home report?

From a seller’s point of view, your agent can, in some cases, refuse to hand over a home report, including if the agent and/or seller don’t believe the potential buyer to be interested in buying their property, has enough money or chooses not to sell their property to the potential buyer.

For the full list of exceptions, visit the mygov.scot page.

Is a home report the same as a survey?

A home report is not the same as a survey. Although both offer information on the property’s condition, a survey offers greater insight and more detail.

Why is a home report important?

The home report, when done properly, can cut unnecessary expenses on having multiple surveys done, making the process of buying and selling a home in Scotland more efficient.

For many, the home report removes much of the stress of buying and selling a property, by ensuring all parties have the necessary property details to make an informed decision.