Residential Surveys and valuations

RICS Home Survey Level 1

An RICS Level 1 Home Survey, previously called a ‘Condition Report’, describes the condition of the property, identifies any risks and potential legal issues, and highlights any urgent defects. Typically the lowest-priced survey, it is aimed at conventional properties and newer homes. It will note defects in the property but will generally not provide advice on how to manage those defects.

Choose an RICS Level 1 Home Survey: 

• If you’re buying a conventional house, flat or bungalow built from common building materials and in good condition.

RICS Home Survey Level 2

Previously called a ‘Home Buyer Report’ or ‘Home Buyers’ Survey’, an RICS Level 2 Home Survey is most suitable for conventional properties that are in reasonable condition and are simple in form and layout (for example, a property that does not have multiple alterations or extensions). The report gives you more detailed information about the property, and ideas about future repairs or maintenance that may be required. Level 2 can be a survey only, or a survey and a valuation:

1. Level 2 Home Survey (survey only) includes all the features of the Home Survey Level 1 and more extensive roof space and drainage chamber inspection. It includes advice on defects that may affect the property and what maintenance or repairs may be required.

Choose an RICS Level 2 Home Survey:

• If you would like more extensive information while buying or selling a conventional house, flat or bungalow, built from common building materials and in reasonable condition.

2. Level 2 Home Survey (survey and valuation) includes all the features of the RICS Level 2 Home Survey, plus a market valuation and insurance reinstatement figure, to help you avoid under- or over-insurance.

Choose this option:

• If you would like all the benefits of an RICS Level 2 Home Survey along with a valuation.

RICS Home Survey Level 3

An RICS Level 3 Home Survey is the most comprehensive survey report. It was previously known as an ‘RICS Building Survey’. It provides you with an extensive, in-depth analysis of the property’s condition and includes advice on defects, repairs and maintenance options.

Choose an RICS Level 3 Home Survey:

• If you’re dealing with a large, older or run-down property, a building that is unusual or altered, or if you’re planning major works.

For the Level 2 and Level 3 RICS Home Surveys, each of the building elements e.g. roof, walls, ceilings, floors, drains etc is described in terms of its type and construction and as a new innovation will be given a condition rating which makes it much easier for the homebuyer to assess the severity of any issues raised.

Traffic light system

• Red - Defects that are serious and/or need to be repaired or replaced urgently, or further investigation may be needed.
• Amber – Defects that need repairing or replacing but are not considered serious or urgent.
• Green – No repairs currently needed.

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