Condition report or building survey: what is the difference?
When do you choose a condition report based on photos, and when a physical building survey?
4 min read · updated 27 October 2026
A condition report is your preparation
A condition report reviews the property photos and the listing and lists the visible points of attention per room, with advice and a timeframe. A building expert checks the report before you receive it.
You have it quickly, even before you view or bid.
A building survey goes deeper
For a survey an inspector visits the property. They can also see what is not in the photos, such as the crawl space or the condition of pipes.
The best order
Use the condition report to decide whether a home is worth it and what to watch for. If you are seriously interested, then have a physical survey done, focused on the points from your report.
Want to know what condition your dream home is in?
Paste the listing link and receive a checked condition report.
Check a home