FAQ - Home inspection before purchase in Switzerland FAQ - Property Survey before purchase in Switzerland FAQ - Hausinspektion vor dem Kauf in der Schweiz Find answers to some of our most commonly asked questions below. If you don’t see your query listed, feel free to contact our friendly team. We’re always happy to help. What Is a property survey in Switzerland? A property survey or house inspection in Switzerland is a detailed technical assessment of a property's physical condition, structure, and sometimes legal compliance. It's typically performed before buying a home and planning renovations. This process is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended for old properties or those requiring renovation or new construction. A professional survey helps identify potential issues early, avoid unexpected costs, make informed investment decisions, and ultimately save you money and stress in the long run. Why do some buyers skip a house survey in Switzerland ? Not mandatory: In Switzerland, surveys are not legally required. Cost: Depending on the property’s size and complexity, surveys may be seen as an additional expense. Time pressure: In fast-moving markets, buyers may rush to close deals quickly. Confusion with mortgage valuations: Many assume a mortgage valuation assesses the property’s condition, but it only determines its market value. Trust and oversight: Buyers sometimes rely on friends or the seller, unaware of potential hidden issues in the property. Labor costs underestimation: Failing to account for Switzerland’s high labor costs can make repairs significantly more expensive if issues arise. Skipping a survey can put your investment at risk. A professional survey ensures peace of mind and helps you make informed decisions. How long does a property survey take? The duration of a property survey depends on the type of survey and the size and complexity of the property. On average, our surveys take 3 to 5 hours to complete on-site. However a large luxury house can take more time. You can expect the final report to be delivered within 2 to 3 business days after the survey. Do I need a survey for a new build? Yes, even new builds can benefit from a property survey. While newly constructed homes are expected to meet modern standards, they can still have many construction defects or unfinished work. These inspections are kno wn   as snagging   surveys,   and   they   help identify issues such as poor workmanship, incomplete finishes, or non-compliance with building plans before you move in or sign off on the final payment. I have concerns which I’d like the surveyor to look into? You're welcome to share any concerns or specific areas of interest before the survey. Our surveyor will be informed and address them during the inspection. What do I do If the property survey reveals problems? Discovering issues during a property survey isn’t bad news — it’s a smart move. It means you’re avoiding unexpected costs, risky investments, and future stress. If problems are found, we’re here to help you take control of the situation with expert advice and clear next steps: • Dig deeper with targeted investigations from trusted specialists • Renegotiate the price based on the real condition of the property • Request repairs before finalizing the purchase • Or, if necessary, walk away from a bad deal The survey gives you the facts and with facts, you gain leverage, transparency, and peace of mind in the negotiation process. Do I need a surveyor for a property valuation? Property valuations and surveys serve different purposes: A property valuation determines the market value of the property. This is usually done for the bank. A property survey assesses the physical condition and structural integrity of the building. This is performed by a chartered surveyor or building expert. Depending on your needs—whether you want to know the price or the condition—you may require one or both services. How much does a property survey cost? Costs vary based on the type of survey and property size. You can request a quote through our website or contact our friendly team for personalised information. Does the owner of the property need to be present? The owner doesn't need to be present. We’re happy to meet buyers or agents instead, or collect keys by prior agreement. Please let us know about any alarms in advance. Appointments can be arranged to suit. How can I pay? Payment is required in full before the inspection. If that’s not possible, it must be made as soon as possible. Reports are only released once payment is received. I have a question about my report. What is the best way to get in touch? We welcome any questions you have once you have received your report. Please feel free to email info@generalservices.ch or by phone.