Conveyancing After a Failed Survey: Should You Renegotiate or Walk Away?

Getting bad news from a survey can turn the home-buying process on its head. You’ve found a place you like, only to discover issues that weren’t obvious before. Whether it’s damp, cracks, or roof trouble, you’re now faced with a decision: do you renegotiate or walk away?

What a “Failed” Survey Means

“Surveyors don’t use the term “fail,” but they might uncover problems serious enough to give you second thoughts. These can range from roof repairs and electrical rewiring to more serious concerns like subsidence or asbestos”, claim SAM Conveyancing, Birmingham home buyers survey experts.

A Level 2 HomeBuyer Report usually covers standard homes in decent condition, while older or more complex properties might need a Level 3 Building Survey.

When Renegotiation Makes Sense

Sometimes the issues are repairable and you still want the house. If that’s the case, renegotiating the price may be a smart move. You’re not being difficult, you’re making sure you don’t overpay for a home that needs immediate work.

Ask a builder or contractor to give you quotes. Use those figures as evidence when asking the seller to reduce the price or fix the problem before exchange. Be honest but firm. If the seller values the sale, they may be open to adjusting the terms.

Your solicitor will take care of the legal side, including any amendments to the contract. This keeps the sale moving while protecting your interests.

When It’s Better to Walk Away

If the survey highlights major red flags, walking away might save you serious trouble later. This could include:

• Structural damage that suggests foundation problems
  
  

• Damp or woodworm across multiple areas
  
  

• Invasive plants like Japanese Knotweed
  
  

• Unsafe electrics or plumbing throughout the house
  
  

Not only are these costly to fix, they might affect resale value or your ability to get a mortgage. No property is worth risking financial hardship.

Letting go can feel frustrating, but if you're early in the conveyancing process, the financial loss should be minimal. Most survey and legal fees are small compared to what major repairs might cost you down the line.

What Happens to Your Legal Fees?

If you pull out, you may still need to pay your solicitor for the work done so far. This could include title checks or searches already carried out. However, if you're using a fixed-fee conveyancing service, your costs are likely to be clearer and easier to manage from the outset.

A good conveyancer will explain what you owe and why, so there are no surprises.

Taking the Next Step With Confidence

A bad survey doesn’t have to ruin your plans. It gives you the information you need to make a smarter choice. Whether you renegotiate or decide to walk, the key is to act quickly and with the right support.

Need help understanding your survey or what to do next? Get expert guidance, clear quotes, and a team that supports you from start to finish so you can move forward with confidence.