Survey guide

RICS Home Surveys: Levels 1, 2 and 3

All three RICS Home Survey levels use the same clear 1, 2 and 3 condition rating system to flag defects, with 3 indicating urgent or serious issues. The differences lie in the depth of inspection, the level of advice provided and the type of property each is suited to.

RICS Home Survey Level 1

A RICS Home Survey Level 1 is the most basic of the standard RICS survey options.

It is usually suitable for:

  • Newer properties
  • Standard construction homes
  • Properties that appear to be in good condition
  • Buyers who want a simple condition overview

The report highlights visible defects and urgent issues but is limited in detail and usually does not provide extensive advice on repairs, causes of defects or likely costs.

For many buyers, Level 1 may be too basic unless the property is modern, conventional and appears well maintained.

RICS Home Survey Level 2

A RICS Home Survey Level 2 is one of the most common choices for homebuyers. It was previously known as a HomeBuyer Report or HomeBuyer Survey.

It is usually suitable for:

  • Conventional houses, flats and bungalows
  • Properties built using standard methods and materials
  • Homes that appear to be in reasonable condition
  • Buyers who want more detail than a basic condition report

A Level 2 survey comments on visible defects, likely maintenance issues and matters requiring further investigation. It is offered in two variants: Survey only and Survey and Valuation, the latter including a market valuation and reinstatement cost figure.

RICS Home Survey Level 3

A RICS Home Survey Level 3 is the most detailed of the standard RICS home survey options. It was previously often called a Building Survey.

It is usually suitable for:

  • Older properties
  • Larger homes
  • Listed buildings
  • Unusual or non-standard construction
  • Properties in poor condition
  • Homes with visible defects
  • Heavily altered or extended properties
  • Buyers planning major renovation works

A Level 3 survey provides a more detailed analysis of the property's construction and condition. It should give fuller advice on defects, possible causes, repair options and ongoing maintenance.

For Victorian, Edwardian, listed, heavily extended, damp, cracked or neglected properties, a Level 3 survey is often the safer choice.

Next: Surveys Outside RICS Back to the guide