The Home Condition Survey (HCS) is a survey and report designed specifically for the home buyer. As such it is unrelated to and should not be confused with the  Home Information Pack. 

When you buy a home it is prudent to have an independent professional report on the condition of the property.

The main aim of the report is to identify any defects that need urgent attention or are serious. It also advises matters that need further investigations to help prevent damage to the structure of the building.

• the construction and condition of the home on the date it was inspected
• whether more enquiries or investigations are needed
• The Reinstatement Cost for insurance purposes derived from data supplied by the Building Cost Information Service (BCIS) except where the property is very large or historic, or if it incorporates special features, or is of unusual construction not covered by the Building Cost Information Service; in which circumstance a specialist would be needed to assess the reinstatement cost.

 The HCS does not advise on:

• The value of the property or cover matters that will be considered when a valuation is provided, such as the area, the availability of public transport or facilities.