If you are preparing to sell your home, you may be wondering what documents are included in a Home Report. In Scotland, the Home Report is a legal requirement for almost all residential properties before they go on the market. It gives buyers clear and reliable information so they can make informed decisions before submitting an offer.
A complete Home Report contains three documents – the Single Survey, the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and the Property Questionnaire. Each part offers different insights into the property and together they provide a full picture of its condition, value and practical details.
The Single Survey
The Single Survey is a detailed inspection carried out by a RICS-registered surveyor. It provides the buyer with an assessment of the property’s condition and an independent valuation. Because of this, it is often the first document that buyers study when reviewing a Home Report.
The surveyor examines the structure, services and overall state of the home. Each part of the property is given a condition rating:
- Category 1: No immediate repairs are needed.
- Category 2: Future repairs or replacements may be required.
- Category 3: Urgent repairs or replacements are needed now. Delaying may cause further damage or safety risks.
These ratings help buyers understand the potential costs they may face. They also help sellers anticipate questions or negotiations during the sales process.
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
The EPC is the second document included in the Home Report. It shows how energy efficient the property is, using ratings from A to G. The surveyor assesses insulation, heating systems, windows and overall energy use.
The EPC also provides recommendations to improve efficiency. As energy costs continue to rise, buyers rely heavily on this section to estimate running costs. Because of this, improving your EPC rating can make your property more appealing.
The Property Questionnaire
The third part of the Home Report is the Property Questionnaire. Unlike the first two documents, the seller completes this section. It covers practical details that only the homeowner is likely to know.
It includes information such as:
- Council tax band
- Parking arrangements
- Alterations or extensions
- Planning permissions or building warrants
- Rights of access
- Details of shared repairs or factoring costs
- Utilities, drainage, and service history
- Any previous insurance claims
Although the questionnaire is straightforward, accuracy is essential. Incorrect or missing information can delay the conveyancing process or result in legal issues later. When in doubt, sellers should speak to their surveyor or solicitor.
Why These Documents Matter
Understanding what documents are included in a Home Report helps buyers and sellers avoid surprises. Buyers gain a clear understanding of the property before making an offer. Sellers benefit from transparency, smoother negotiations and fewer last-minute issues.
Because the Home Report must be provided before marketing begins, arranging it early can speed up the process and reduce delays once your property goes live on the market.
Next steps
If you are preparing to sell your home, arranging your Home Report is the first step. At Home Report Company, we offer fast, flexible appointments across Scotland, including evenings and weekends. Every report is carried out by a RICS-registered surveyor and delivered quickly so you can get your property on the market without delay.
Home Report Company offers expert assessments with 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.
