Who should pay for a structural survey report? Is it the buyer or seller?
The question of who pays for the structural survey report depends on who requests the report and why.
Typically, the person or party who commissions the structural engineer is responsible for the cost. In many cases, this is the homeowner or potential buyer. For example, if you’re buying a house and your surveyor flags a potential structural issue, such as cracking in the external wall or sloping floors, then you might appoint a structural engineer for a more detailed investigation. In this case, you, as the buyer, would pay for the report. Alternatively, in some cases, when a survey has highlighted concerns with the structure of the house, the buyer asks the vendor to pay for the structural inspection and report.
Sellers may also choose to commission a structural report before listing their property, especially if they’re aware of visible issues. Doing so can provide reassurance to potential buyers and help speed up the sale. In such cases, the structural engineer’s fees would typically be paid by the seller.
In certain situations, mortgage lenders or insurance companies might require a structural report before approving a loan or policy. If they request it, they typically expect the buyer or policyholder to cover the cost, although this can vary by lender.
Costs for a structural engineer’s report can vary based on the complexity of the issue and the size of the property, but a typical report for a typical house might be a little over £1,000.
Structures Made Easy would recommend clarifying who will bear the cost of obtaining the structural survey report before appointing a chartered structural engineer. While it may seem like an added expense, a professional report can save you thousands by uncovering hidden issues before they become serious problems.
If you’re unsure whether you need a report or who should pay for it, speak to your solicitor, lender or Structures Made Easy.
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