Understanding Home Buyer Reports: Costs & What to Expect
Considering a new property? Don’t just look at the aesthetics—it’s what’s behind the walls that truly matters. Our Home Buyer Report provides a comprehensive assessment of a property’s plumbing, heating, and electrical systems, giving you peace of mind and full transparency on your potential new home.
For electrical-only checks before purchase, see our pre-purchase electrical inspection service and discuss whether you need a visual assessment or a full EICR.
What affects home buyer report cost?
The cost of specialist pre-purchase checks depends on the work agreed, not simply the property's asking price. The number of gas appliances, heating and hot water arrangements, electrical inspection scope and areas requiring access can affect the quote. Share existing records and any concerns raised by the seller or your surveyor so the proposed inspection can be discussed.
A visual electrical assessment and a full Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) involve different work. Do not assume every home buyer inspection includes an EICR or a landlord Gas Safety Record (CP12). If you need the latter, discuss the separate scope and documentation described on our Gas Safety Certificates page.
Ask what is included in the inspection price and whether additional testing, further investigation or repair quotations would be separate. Inspection findings do not mean remedial work is automatically included.
What should you look for in the report?
GU Services provides a written report explaining the findings from the agreed inspection. Its combined service considers heating, hot water, boiler condition, accessible electrical installations, plumbing and the gas appliances included in the scope. Confirm the checks and documentation before booking rather than assume every property receives an identical package.
If you are comparing a home buyer report example, look for a clear explanation of the inspection scope, findings and limitations. Ask how urgent concerns, recommended work and areas needing further investigation will be communicated. An example cannot establish the condition of the property you intend to buy or promise what your inspection will find.
Specialist checks and building surveys
GU Services' gas, heating and electrical inspections are not RICS Level 2 Home Surveys or structural surveys. They address the agreed service installations rather than the structure of the building, and cannot establish the condition of every concealed component.
Use the findings to discuss further checks or repair estimates with the seller and your advisers before making a purchase decision. A report can help you understand potential work; it does not guarantee a price reduction or that no future faults will arise.
