New builds and warranties
What should you check so the survey address matches the plot the contract names?
Check the plot number, the postal address and the plan in the contract against the quote and against the house the surveyor is shown. A marketing name, a show home, or the plot next door is a different building. If Buildmark applies, NHBC covers the home named in the policy, not the show house. A survey of the wrong door is a survey you cannot use.
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?
Sites renumber plots, and show homes are upgraded. The surveyor depends on you and the agent to open the right door. Write the plot number into the instruction. On the day, look at the number by the door before the inspection starts. If the house is unfinished, say so in the instruction so the report can list what did not yet exist.
When the report comes back, match the address on the cover to the contract before you send it to a lender or a solicitor. A good report on plot 12 does not describe plot 14. This is a paperwork check, not a technical one, and it is entirely your job to start.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- Which address will you print on the report?
- If the show home is a different plot, will you ignore it?
- What will you do if the plot is unfinished on the day?
What are the typical next steps?
- Put the contract plot number in the survey instruction.
- Check the door number before you leave the surveyor there.
- Match the report cover to the contract before you rely on it.
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 the builder’s site manager choose which plot is inspected?
Only if you agree. If you are buying a numbered plot, that is the inspection. Say so in writing.
Does a show-home upgrade transfer to your plot?
Not unless the specification says so. Survey the specification you signed, on the plot you signed for.