Everything You Need to Know About Home Reports in Scotland
Buying or selling a property can often feel overwhelming. It’s not something most people do regularly, so it’s natural to have lots of questions—especially when it comes to the finer details. One topic that frequently causes confusion is the Home Report. For example, how long is it valid for? Is it always required by law?
In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Home Reports to help you navigate your property journey with ease.
What is a Home Report?
A Home Report is an essential document required for most residential properties being sold in Scotland. It is prepared by a Chartered Surveyor who is a member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and a Registered Valuer.
The Home Report contains four key sections:
- Single Survey – a detailed assessment of the property’s condition.
- Energy Report – an overview of the property’s energy efficiency.
- Mortgage Valuation Certificate – an official estimate of the property’s value for lenders.
- Property Questionnaire – information provided by the seller about the property, including alterations, repairs, and council tax banding.
Whether you’re buying or selling, this comprehensive document gives both parties a clearer picture of the property’s condition and market value.
Why Do You Need a Home Report?
In Scotland, a Home Report is a legal requirement before marketing a residential property. Without it, the seller and their estate agent could face prosecution by Trading Standards and a substantial fine. It’s not just about legality, though—having a Home Report ensures transparency and helps protect both the buyer and seller throughout the transaction.
Moreover, a solicitor representing the buyer will typically not finalise the sale if a Home Report hasn’t been provided.
How Long Does a Home Report Last?
One of the most common questions about Home Reports is regarding their validity. Here’s how it works:
When you first market your property, the documents within the Home Report cannot be more than 12 weeks old. Once your property is on the market, however, the report technically remains valid until deemed otherwise by a buyer’s lender or solicitor.
That said, most mortgage lenders will not accept a Home Report that is older than three months. If your property has been on the market for longer than this, you may need a refreshed version of the report to confirm that there haven’t been any changes to the condition or value of the property.
How Do I Get a Home Report?
If you’re interested in buying a property, you can request the Home Report from the seller, their solicitor, or their estate agent. The report should be made available within nine days of your request. If it’s not provided within this time, you can contact your local council’s Trading Standards service to follow up.
How Much Does a Home Report Cost?
The cost of a Home Report can vary based on the location and value of the property. Typically, prices start from around £425 + VAT for properties valued under £100,000.
At Allied Surveyors Scotland, our trusted team can provide you with a competitive Home Report quote. Simply get in touch with us on 0141 330 9950 or email info@alliedsurveyorsscotland.com for more information.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the ins and outs of a Home Report can make the process of buying or selling a property in Scotland much smoother. Not only is it a legal requirement, but it also helps ensure transparency and security for both parties.
If you’re looking for a Home Report or have further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Allied Surveyors Scotland. Our experts are here to guide you through the process every step of the way.
For a free, no-obligation quote, click here to get started!
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