If you are obtaining a mortgage a valuer will inspect the property on behalf of the lender. Although his report will give you an indication as to whether he thinks the property is worth the amount you have asked to borrow you will probably not be able to rely on it if things go wrong.
For an extra fee you will usually be offered the option to arrange for the same valuer to carry out a more detailed "Home Buyers Report". This can be relied upon by you so if at a later date you find a problem that is not mentioned in the report you will have some redress against the valuer.
If the property is quite old and you are particularly concerned about its condition you can obtain a full structural survey report which is even more detailed.
Always remember the golden rule is "let buyers beware" so (provided you have not been misled) you will be liable for any problem discovered after exchange of contracts.
