The Scottish Home Report Guide
Everything you need to know about Home Reports — what's included, how much they cost and why they're a legal requirement in Scotland.
If you are selling a residential property in Scotland, a Home Report is a legal requirement. Introduced in 2008, the Home Report gives prospective buyers key information about the property's condition, energy efficiency and other important details before they make an offer. This guide explains what a Home Report is, what it includes and what it costs.
What Is a Home Report?
A Home Report is a pack of documents that provides prospective buyers with key information about a residential property before they make an offer. It has been a legal requirement in Scotland since December 2008 under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006.
The Home Report must be available to prospective buyers before a property is marketed for sale. The seller is responsible for commissioning and paying for the Home Report, which is typically arranged through an estate agent or solicitor.
What Is Included in a Home Report?
The Home Report consists of three main documents, each providing different information about the property:
- Single Survey: An independent assessment of the property's condition, carried out by a chartered surveyor. It includes a valuation and identifies any repairs or issues that may need attention.
- Energy Report: An assessment of the property's energy efficiency, providing an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), along with recommendations for improvements.
- Property Questionnaire: Completed by the seller, this provides additional information about the property including council tax band, parking, alterations, services and other practical details.
Home Report Costs in Scotland
The cost of a Home Report varies depending on the value, size and type of property. For a typical residential property, the cost ranges from £500 to £1,500. Higher-value properties generally incur higher survey fees.
Some estate agents offer to defer the cost of the Home Report until the property is sold, or include it as part of a comprehensive marketing package. HouseSpotters can advise on the most cost-effective approach for your situation.
Home Report Exemptions
While most residential property sales in Scotland require a Home Report, there are limited exemptions. These include:
- Newly built properties sold for the first time under a building warrant
- Properties sold to a sitting tenant exercising their right to buy
- Non-residential or mixed-use properties where the residential element is minor
- Properties sold as part of a portfolio of commercial properties
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Home Report a legal requirement in Scotland?
Yes. Under the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006, a Home Report is a legal requirement for marketing most residential properties for sale in Scotland. It must be available to prospective buyers before the property is marketed.
How much does a Home Report cost in Scotland?
A Home Report typically costs between £500 and £1,500 depending on the value and type of property. Higher-value properties generally incur higher survey costs. Some estate agents, including HouseSpotters, may offer deferred payment or include the Home Report as part of their service package.
How long is a Home Report valid for?
There is no legal expiry date for a Home Report, but mortgage lenders typically require the survey to be no more than 12 weeks old at the time of application. In practice, many sellers refresh the Home Report if the property has been on the market for several months.
Who commissions the Home Report?
The seller is responsible for commissioning and paying for the Home Report. It is usually arranged through your estate agent or solicitor, who will instruct a chartered surveyor to carry out the Single Survey.
Can I sell my house without a Home Report in Scotland?
Only in limited circumstances. Exemptions include newly built properties sold under a building warrant, properties sold to a sitting tenant under right-to-buy, and certain non-residential or mixed-use properties. In most cases, a Home Report is legally required.
