In Scotland, a Home Report is a mandatory set of documents that sellers must provide when marketing their residential property. Introduced in December 2008, Home Reports are designed to give potential buyers a clear understanding of the property's condition, energy efficiency, and other key information before making an offer. This transparency helps speed up the sale process and reduces the likelihood of unexpected issues arising later. It also helps buyers make informed decisions, fostering confidence in the property market.

Components of a Home Report

A Home Report in Scotland consists of three main documents:

Single Survey:

⭐️ Condition Assessment: Conducted by a qualified chartered surveyor, this survey provides a detailed inspection of the property's condition, identifying any defects, issues, or necessary repairs.

⭐️ Market Valuation: The survey includes an independent valuation of the property, helping sellers set an appropriate asking price and buyers gauge the property's worth.

⭐️ Accessibility Audit: The survey may also comment on the property's accessibility for individuals with disabilities, although this is not always a standard component.

Energy Report

⭐️ Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): This certificate rates the property's energy efficiency on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It provides an overview of the current energy performance and potential future improvements.

⭐️ Energy Efficiency Recommendations: The report includes suggestions for improving the property's energy efficiency, such as better insulation, more efficient heating systems, or installing double glazing.

Property Questionnaire

⭐️ Seller's Information: Completed by the seller, this questionnaire includes essential details about the property that the surveyor may not cover, such as:

⭐️ Alterations and extensions made to the property.

⭐️ Council Tax band.

⭐️ Information about property management arrangements (if applicable).

⭐️ Details on any local authority notices or permissions affecting the property.

⭐️ Utility providers and other relevant information that buyers might need.

Our next Ask the Expert session will discuss the importance of Home Reports in Scotland and will be held on 4 June 2024 by our local expert Sharon Martin. 

To book a time with Sharon to ask a question contact us on:

📩 asktheexpert@parissteele.com. 

Our dedicated expert will be happy to provide initial advice, signpost you to additional sources of support or provide a fee quote for more in-depth assistance.