Survey costs
Can two buyers split one survey fee and both rely on the report?
Only if the firm agrees that both are clients, in writing. In England and Wales the report is for the client who instructed it. Splitting the invoice does not create reliance. RICS does not publish a two-client tariff. A Scottish Home Report is different: the purchaser can rely on the pack the seller provides, which is not two buyers sharing a private invoice.
Last reviewed 24 October 2026. Written for buyers in England and Wales unless this answer says otherwise. No named surveyor has signed this page. It is general guidance, not a report on your house, and not legal advice.
What is the fuller explanation?
Friends buying together should both be named if both need to rely. A parent paying for an adult child should ask whose name carries the duty. A later viewer of the house is not your co-buyer. Forwarding the PDF is not a novation. If the firm will not add a second name, one of you is reading someone else’s advice.
The fee may rise if the duty widens. Ask. Do not hide the second buyer to save money and then complain the report did not name them. There is no RICS refund for a shared login. Lenders are a further party. Do not assume the bank can rely on a report addressed only to you.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- Will both names be on the report?
- Does a second client change the fee?
- May a lender rely on it?
What are the typical next steps?
- Get both names in the terms before the visit.
- Do not split a fee the firm thinks is for one client.
- In Scotland, start with the Home Report rather than a shared private survey.
Costs vary with the building and with who you instruct. Where this page does not cite a published figure, ask the surveyor, a relevant specialist, or your solicitor for a written quote. Do not treat a forum average as the price.
Also asked about this
If one buyer drops out, does the report transfer?
Only if the terms allow it. A new buyer should not assume they can pick up your reliance.
Is a joint mortgage enough?
It explains why you both care. It does not amend the surveyor’s letter. Read the letter.