When we receive survey enquiries we’re sometimes asked ‘Do I need a survey on a New Build House? Here’s why the answer is Yes!
The Importance of an RICS Survey on New Builds and Renovated Homes 🏡
When buying a brand-new home, many buyers assume a survey isn’t necessary. After all, it’s new—so what could possibly go wrong? At Bracketts Chartered Surveyors, we often get asked: “Do I really need a survey on a new build house?” The simple answer is: yes, absolutely.
Even newly built or recently renovated homes can have defects—some of which may not be covered by your builder’s warranty. That’s why arranging an RICS Home Survey, even for a new build, is a smart move for any buyer.
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🧱 Real-Life Example: What We Found in a recent New Build Survey
We recently carried out an RICS Level 3 Home Survey on a newly constructed property. Despite the home having a 10-year new build warranty, our inspection uncovered two major potential issues—neither covered by the long term build warranty:
1. Flat Roof Without Required Expansion Joints
The property had a large flat roof covering over 50m²—a surface area above the size limit where expansion joints are essential. Without them, the roof is highly vulnerable to thermal movement, cracking, and leaks, which could cost thousands to repair.
2. Ground levels too high and dangerously close to the Damp Proof Course (DPC)
The gap between the ground level and the damp proof course was below the bare minimum recommended clearance. This significantly increases the risk of rainwater splashing back from the ground, saturating the low level brickwork and in some cases can lead to damp penetration above the level of the DPC.
⚠️ Neither of these defects were covered by the developer’s long term building warranty, meaning the buyer would have been responsible for all repair/remedial costs.
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🧐 Do I Need a Survey on a New Build House? Here’s What You Need to Know
Even with a new build warranty, not all elements or defects are included—and many only appear after you’ve moved in. An independent RICS Home Survey gives you:
• ✅ A detailed, professional report on the property’s condition
• ✅ Early identification of potential defects
• ✅ Insights into construction quality and compliance with building standards
• ✅ Peace of mind before exchange or completion
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking “new” means “flawless.” Builders can—and do—make mistakes, and warranty fine print sometimes excludes significant elements.
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🔍 Why Choose Bracketts for Your New Build Survey?
At Bracketts Chartered Surveyors, our RICS-accredited team has decades of experience inspecting new builds, renovated properties, and everything in between. We know where problems tend to hide, and we make sure you’re fully informed before you commit to your purchase.
Let us help inform your decision with clear, expert advice—before it’s too late.
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📞 Ready to Book Your RICS Survey?
Contact Bracketts today to schedule a professional RICS Home Survey on your new build or recently renovated home. Because peace of mind is worth it—especially when it comes to your biggest investment.
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