Survey costs
Does the survey fee include a conversation after you have read the report?
Only if the terms say so. Some firms include a short call. Some charge for time after the PDF. RICS does not publish a rule that every question is free, and it does not publish a call-out price. Ask before you instruct, and ask whether the call is with the surveyor who saw the house.
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?
A useful call clarifies a rating, a limitation or whether two comments are the same defect. It is not a second inspection and it is not permission to add a drone, a drain camera or a change of level for nothing. If the report is wrong on a fact, say the fact. If you want advice on a renovation you have just invented, that may be a new instruction.
Do not withhold the fee because you have not yet had a chat, unless the terms made delivery conditional on it. Do not expect the surveyor to negotiate with the agent. There is no RICS script for that call. Write down what they clarify so you are not relying on a memory of the rating.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- Is a follow-up call included, and how long is it?
- Who will take it?
- What would be a further fee?
What are the typical next steps?
- Ask the question before you pay the invoice, if the terms give you a call.
- List your questions. Do not ask them to re-inspect by telephone.
- Do not ask them to tell the seller what to do.
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
Can they change a rating on the call?
Only if they agree the report should be corrected. A chat is not a silent edit. Ask for a revised page if the opinion changes.
Is email the same?
It is still their time. Ask what the terms include.