Residential surveys

A RICS home survey is a crucial step when buying a house in the UK, providing an in-depth assessment of a property’s condition. Conducted by a qualified surveyor from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), it helps identify structural issues, damp, subsidence, or other potential defects.

By highlighting hidden problems, a survey can save buyers from unexpected repair costs. If issues arise, the report can be used to negotiate a lower price or request repairs before purchase or be armed with an understand of what may require investment following your purchase.

Different levels of surveys are available, from basic Level 1 to detailed Level 3, catering to various property types and buyer needs. Mortgage valuations alone don’t provide a full picture, making a RICS survey an essential investment. Ultimately, it offers peace of mind, protecting buyers from costly surprises and ensuring informed decisions when purchasing a home.

Types of Home Survey

Different properties require different types of survey. RICS introduced a new Home Survey Standard on 1 March 2021 to increase consistency and transparency across residential surveying in the UK. This introduced the three different levels of RICS Home Survey.
The appropriate level of survey will in most cases depend on the age, size, condition, complexity and originality of the property. An RICS member can advise on the type that’s right for you.

Level 1 Home Survey

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.

Level 2 Home Survey

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:

Level 3 Home Survey

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.