When you decide to sell your home, one of the first steps is arranging the Home Report. Many sellers are unsure how to prepare for a Home Report or what a surveyor needs access to. A bit of preparation can make the inspection smoother, reduce follow-up questions and help ensure the report reflects your property accurately.
This guide explains how to prepare your home for surveyor inspection with practical steps that will help create a clear, efficient and accurate Home Report.
Why Preparing for a Home Report Matters
A Home Report includes the Single Survey, Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and Property Questionnaire. The surveyor must access key areas, assess visible elements and gather accurate information. When the home is easy to inspect, the process is quicker and more straightforward.
Preparing well helps:
- Ensure the surveyor can complete all required checks
- Reduce the need for repeat visits
- Avoid delays in getting your report
- Provide buyers with reliable information
- Present the property in its true condition
Small steps can make a noticeable difference.
Provide Clear Access Throughout the Property
One of the most effective ways to prepare for a Home Report is ensuring the surveyor can access all parts of the property. This includes:
- Loft spaces
- Electric meters
- Gas meters
- Boilers
- Fuse boxes
- Outbuildings and garages
- Cellars or storage areas
Surveyors must inspect these areas to complete the Home Report accurately. If access is restricted, they may need to use a default condition rating or return at a later date.
Tidy and Organise Key Areas
The Home Report is not a judgement on décor or styling. However, tidy spaces help surveyors work safely and move through the home efficiently. Clear pathways and accessible storage areas allow the inspection to progress smoothly.
This does not mean staging the home. It simply means removing obstructions and allowing the surveyor to carry out checks without difficulty.
Highlight Any Known Issues
Another useful way to prepare for a Home Report is to provide details of any repairs, upgrades or previous issues. Surveyors appreciate transparency, as it helps them record the most accurate picture of the property.
Before the visit, gather:
- Building warrants or planning permissions
- Certificates for electrical or gas work
- Guarantees for damp proofing, roof work, or windows
- Details of shared repairs or factoring arrangements
This information also supports the Property Questionnaire, which forms part of the Home Report.
Ensure the Exterior Can Be Inspected Safely
Surveyors also inspect the outside of the home.
To prepare:
- Clear pathways
- Remove obstacles blocking walls, steps or boundaries
- Make sure gates or outhouse doors can open
- Allow access to external meters
Simple adjustments save time and ensure the Single Survey reflects the true condition of exterior elements.
Complete the Property Questionnaire Carefully
The Property Questionnaire is completed by the seller and covers practical details such as council tax band, alterations, access rights, parking and shared repairs. Accuracy is important. If in doubt, ask your surveyor or solicitor for guidance before submitting it.
Final Thoughts on How to Prepare for a Home Report
When sellers take a little time to prepare for a Home Report, the inspection is more efficient and the final documents are more complete. The aim is not to improve value but to support an accurate professional assessment that buyers and lenders can trust.
At Home Report Company, our RICS-registered surveyors offer clear guidance throughout the process. We provide flexible appointments across Scotland and deliver legally compliant reports within 48 hours.
Home Report Company offers expert assessments with flexible appointments from 8am to 11pm, seven days a week.
Our RICS-registered surveyors provide clear, reliable reports within 48 hours.
If you need a Home Report, get a free quote today or call 0131 608 0175 to book your appointment.
