DESPITE the fact that buying a property will be the most expensive purchase they make, 80 per cent of buyers do not get a professional survey, claims the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Most rely on a basic valuation survey report, undertaken for the mortgage lender. However, this is only intended to give an indication of the value of the property and whether it is a good risk for the lender.

There are two types of property survey recommended by the RICS:

The homebuyer survey and valuation - generally suitable for modern homes which are conventional in type and construction. It focuses on essentials and points to any defects or significant problems in need of expert attention. Average cost for a two/three-bedroom house would be around £250-£350.

Building survey - suitable for all types of property, especially recommended for period properties or properties of unusual construction. The average cost is from £400 upward, dependent on size.