Across the UK property sector, the quality of home surveys varies dramatically—and for many buyers, that inconsistency leads to frustration, confusion, and in some cases, a complete loss of confidence. Too often, survey reports are delivered late, lack clear explanations, or appear more focused on legal disclaimers than helpful insights. At CJ Bloor Property Consultants, we’re working to change that perception by offering an experience that’s clear, dependable, and grounded in what buyers actually need.
What’s Going Wrong with Home Surveys?
Customer feedback across the industry points to several recurring problems:
A lack of meaningful follow-up, with clients left waiting weeks for promised call-backs.
Reports that read more like legal disclaimers than practical guidance, full of vague terms like “could”, “might” and “should”.
Conflicting findings within the same report, making it hard to know what actually requires action.
Confusion over whether issues are genuinely serious, or just flagged because of technical compliance with modern building standards.
For example, a buyer might receive an 80-page report that raises alarm over minor ventilation issues in a five-year-old property—despite it being fully compliant when built. This can result in unnecessary anxiety, wasted solicitor time, and even halted purchases.
“At CJ Bloor, we work closely with the RICS Home Survey Standards to ensure our surveys meet professional expectations. That said, we recognise that many clients don’t fully understand how those standards are meant to apply at each survey level. That’s why our team is trained to explain the finer details—clearly, patiently and without jargon.”
– Chris Bloor, Director, CJ Bloor
Understanding Why It Happens
The industry isn’t broken—but it is often out of step with client expectations. Here’s why:
Standards vary by firm. Without strict enforcement of consistent reporting practices, two surveyors can produce vastly different outcomes on the same property.
Communication is lacking. Many firms don’t see client interaction as part of their responsibility once the report is sent.
Jargon-heavy language. To protect themselves legally, some surveyors rely on technical terms or cautious phrasing, which reduces clarity for clients.
Context is often missing. A feature that was perfectly acceptable five years ago might now trigger a red flag under today’s guidelines—even when no real defect exists.
The Role of RICS Surveys in Identifying Real Issues
A professionally conducted RICS Home Survey plays a vital role in property purchases. Whether opting for a Level 2 Homebuyers Survey or a Level 3 Building Survey, the survey should help buyers understand the real condition of a property—not just list regulatory observations.
Typical defects that a good surveyor will flag include:
Evidence of damp, condensation or mould
Cracks in walls, subsidence or structural movement
Roofing issues such as missing tiles or sagging rooflines
Faulty electrics or unsafe plumbing
Signs of infestations or invasive plants like Japanese knotweed
The key is knowing which of these require immediate attention and which are simply routine maintenance. That’s why CJ Bloor Property Consultants always include clear commentary and recommendations based on the property’s age, type and location.
“We support the Home Survey Standards and welcome RICS’ new consultation. However, we can’t ignore how far the standards are drifting from what clients really want. If surveyors are expected to test extractor fan flow rates, are we now ventilation assessors—or are we here to help buyers understand if a property is structurally sound and safe to live in?”
– Chris Bloor, Director, CJ Bloor
Why Many Clients Feel Let Down
Even when a survey technically meets industry standards, buyers often walk away feeling unsupported. That’s partly due to how reports are written—but it’s also about service. Clients need to feel heard, not just handed a document.
One particularly relevant concern is that reports often quote only current legislation. A client purchasing a five-year-old home doesn’t need to be told it lacks today’s ideal extractor fan flow rate—they need to know whether the ventilation is sufficient, safe, and working as intended. The distinction matters.
A Positive Shift: The New RICS Consultation
In response to growing concern, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) launched a consultation in August 2025 to improve survey standards. Their goal is to make reports more consistent, more transparent, and better aligned with what buyers actually want.
The consultation invites professionals and consumers alike to contribute to reshaping how survey reports are produced and delivered. It’s a much-needed step in the right direction.
How CJ Bloor Is Raising the Standard
At CJ Bloor Property Consultants, we’ve built our service around what clients really value:
Responsiveness. If you have questions, we’re here. We don’t leave you waiting for weeks or send you around in circles.
Clarity. We avoid confusing disclaimers and vague legal terms. Instead, we give clear guidance and actionable insights.
Contextual understanding. Our reports take into account the building’s age and era—not just how it compares to today’s new builds.
Transparency. We explain not only what we’ve found, but why it matters and what you can do about it.
Accredited expertise. Every survey is conducted by qualified professionals under the RICS Home Survey Standard, ensuring consistency and compliance.
Whether you’re looking for a Level 2 Homebuyers Survey for a modern flat or a Level 3 Building Survey for an older or unique property, we tailor our service to your needs and give you the confidence to move forward with your purchase.
“It’s our job not just to carry out a survey, but to interpret what it means in a way clients can actually use. A survey report should offer clarity and peace of mind—not confusion. At CJ Bloor, that’s the standard we work to every day.”
– Chris Bloor, Director, CJ Bloor
A Better Experience for UK Homebuyers
Poor-quality survey experiences aren’t just frustrating—they undermine the value of a vital step in the homebuying process. At CJ Bloor, we’re not here to tick boxes. We’re here to empower you with honest, practical and professional advice.
Because buying a home should feel exciting, not stressful. And your survey report should help—not hinder—that journey.
