Published by SashMark · · For buyers in England
A property research report: organise early evidence
SashMark brings available public and licensed data together for an address. Depending on coverage, that can include recorded sales, EPC details, planning information and environmental context. Its main purpose is to help you identify questions before committing further time and money.
The report does not inspect the building or verify legal title. Some evidence describes an area rather than the precise property. Read the source notes and location precision, and keep “no data” separate from “nothing to investigate”.
A survey: ask about the building itself
Discuss the property’s age, construction, visible issues and alterations with a qualified surveyor so you can select an appropriate service. Ask what will be inspected, what access is required and which exclusions apply.
Share your viewing notes and relevant research before the inspection. For example, a discrepancy between a floor plan and recorded property information can become a specific question. An online report cannot inspect behind finishes or determine the cause of a crack.
Conveyancing: verify legal matters with your adviser
Your conveyancer handles the legal work of transferring ownership and advises on enquiries and searches for the transaction. Give them the exact property details and raise concerns about shared access, boundaries, alterations or restrictions early.
Public title information can help you begin research, but interpreting the rights, obligations and documents for a purchase belongs with your legal adviser. Ask which searches are appropriate, what is outstanding and what a result means for your intended use of the home.
Use one question log across the process
Record each concern once, then assign it to the person best placed to answer it. Keep the original source, the question, the response and the remaining action together. This prevents a concern disappearing between the agent, surveyor and conveyancer.
- Before a viewing: collect listing details and public evidence.
- At the viewing: record observations and ask for missing documents.
- During professional checks: share the relevant questions and records.
- Before committing: ask your advisers to explain unresolved findings.
Common questions
Does SashMark replace conveyancing searches?
No. It is an early research tool. Your conveyancer should advise on the searches and legal checks needed for your transaction.
Can a strong property score replace a survey?
No. The score summarises assessed data and its coverage. It is not a physical inspection, a guarantee of condition or professional advice.
Sources and how to use this guide
This guide combines practical research suggestions with the official services below. It is general information; property-specific survey, valuation and legal questions need the appropriate professional.
Read how SashMark handles sources, matching and missing evidence.