How to Prepare Your Home for a Surveyor’s Visit

Practical steps to help sellers make the process easier and more efficient.

When you are selling your home, having a survey carried out is a normal part of the process. For the buyer, it offers reassurance about the condition of the property. For the seller, it can sometimes feel a bit intrusive or stressful. But a little preparation goes a long way. By making sure your home is easy to inspect, you can help the surveyor do their job properly and avoid unnecessary delays or follow-up visits.

Nick Cobb Surveyors have years of experience of property inspections and we have written a guide to help things run smoothly on the day of your survey.

Make Sure the Surveyor Can Access Everything

One of the most common issues during a survey is limited access. If parts of the property can't be seen or reached, it can affect the outcome or slow things down.

Unlock any gates, sheds or outbuildings that will need checking
Make sure the loft hatch is accessible and provide a ladder if needed
Move furniture or belongings away from inspection points like electric meters or heating systems
Clear under sinks so pipework can be viewed

The easier it is for the surveyor to move around, the more thorough the inspection will be.

Tidy Up, But Don’t Overthink It

You do not need a show home. A surveyor is not judging your décor or lifestyle. But a tidy space helps make the inspection easier and creates a more straightforward working environment.

Clear floors of clutter so rooms can be walked through easily
Make sure windows and doors open without obstruction
Remove anything blocking access to walls, skirting boards or ventilation areas

The goal is to give the surveyor a clear view of key areas without any obstructions.

Flag Any Known Issues

If you are aware of specific defects or repairs, It is helpful to mention them rather than hope they go unnoticed. Being upfront often speeds up the process and reduces the chance of surprise questions later.

Let the surveyor know about any recent work that has been done
Mention known concerns such as damp patches or historic leaks
Provide paperwork if you have had structural repairs, treatments or improvements carried out

Being open about the condition of the property shows that you’re acting in good faith and can help avoid unnecessary speculation in the report.

Make Arrangements for Pets

If you have dogs, cats or other pets, it is a good idea to keep them out of the way while the surveyor is working. This helps avoid distractions and makes the visit safer for everyone.

Keep pets in one room or arrange for them to be out of the house temporarily
Let the surveyor know if there are any animals on-site before the visit

A Bit of Prep Makes a Big Difference

Preparing your home for a survey does not have to be complicated. A few small steps can make the visit quicker, safer and more accurate. If you're selling and have a survey booked, these tips can help make the whole experience a lot smoother.

To find out more about our residential survey services or what to expect during a visit, head to www.nickcobbsurveyors.co.uk.