Buying Your First Home? Don’t Skip the Survey – Here’s Why
You’ve found the one — a charming fixer-upper or a modern new build that’s about to become your first home. Exciting, right? But before you get too attached to those granite countertops or that quirky fireplace, let’s talk surveys.
Do I Really Need a Survey?
Over half of first-time buyers skip getting a professional survey done when buying a second-hand property. The most common reason? “It’s an extra cost I can’t afford right now.” Fair point — budgets are tight. Others trust their own instincts or maybe a builder relative who’s had a quick look around and reckons it’s grand.
But here’s the catch: what you see isn’t always what you get.
A Bank’s Valuation Is Not a Survey
Many buyers believe their mortgage lender is doing a full check on the house. They’re not. The bank sends someone to confirm the property is worth what they’re lending you — nothing more. They’re not checking for dodgy electrics, hidden damp, poor insulation, or cracks that could spell bigger trouble down the line.
Their interest is in protecting their loan. Yours should be in protecting your home.
Why a Survey Matters
A surveyor or engineer will do a full check of the property — inside, outside, and underneath. They’ll highlight any red flags before you sign the contract, giving you the full picture of what you’re buying.
It’s not just about peace of mind — it’s about your pocket. If the survey reveals that €5,000 of repairs are needed, that’s something you can either plan for or use as leverage to negotiate the purchase price.
Buying a New Build? You Still Need a Snag List
Even brand new homes can have issues. That’s where a snag list comes in. It’s a detailed list of things the builder needs to fix before you move in — from uneven tiles to unconnected radiators.
There is usually a structural guarantee on new builds, but that won’t cover small issues like misaligned doors or dodgy finishes. And let’s be honest — once the sale’s complete, it can be tricky to get a builder back on site.
Why Local Knowledge Counts
Working with a local solicitor like Michael Monahan Solicitor in Sligo can be a huge advantage. We often have inside knowledge of local estates, developers, and — importantly — the standard of their work. That local insight can help you ask the right questions before you commit.
How Much Does a Survey Cost?
You should budget around €500 plus VAT (currently at 23%) for a survey. The exact figure might vary depending on your location and the type of property.
Yes, it’s another cost. But think of it as an insurance policy that can save you thousands — or at least a major headache — down the line.
The Right Time to Survey
Here’s the usual timeline:
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Sale Agreed – The estate agent notifies both sides’ solicitors.
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Contracts Issued – The seller’s solicitor sends the buyer’s solicitor the contracts and title documents.
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Survey Time – This is your moment to bring in your surveyor or engineer before signing anything.
If any issues are flagged, now’s the time to try negotiating a price adjustment — especially if the seller is keen to close.
Final Word
We always recommend our clients get a survey. If you decide not to, we’ll ask you to sign a waiver confirming you were advised and chose to decline. Not to be awkward — but to protect everyone, including yourself.
If you’re buying or selling property and want clear advice from people who know the local market inside out, we’re happy to help. Call us at +353 (0)71 91 29070 or visit www.michaelmonahansolicitor.ie.
Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions of your life. Make sure you know exactly what you’re signing up for.