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unlikely that the electrics have suddenly become a concern just because the house is changing hands, even if they are outdated
True, but electrics like plumbing are things people sort once and then neglect unless something goes pop so you really don't know what corruption they're in and there are plenty of tales of horror in this and the DIY thread.
Also bear in mind that if you want to change something about the electrics it may involve bringing some or all of the rest up to modern standards.
Consider getting an EICR (condition report) which should rule out a bunch of basic problems.
This thread is truly a goldmine of knowledge from people who have been round the track a time or two, made and learned from mistakes, and who will generously share there experiences with absolutely zero vested interest. It's a shame it isn't more searchable, but there have been plenty of sensible conversations on damp, it's causes and remedies.
It is a horrible shit scary process though. Don't let the survey panic you (especially if it is something like a Victorian house which has stuck around for north of 100 years.) but do post concerns here. As @Grumpy_Git says, it's unlikely that the electrics have suddenly become a concern just because the house is changing hands, even if they are outdated.