Compare
Which survey level do I need?
The right level depends on the age, construction and condition of the property — not on the price of the report. If a lower level is genuinely enough, you will be told so.
| What you get | Level 1 Home Survey | Level 2 Home Survey | Level 3 Building Survey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best suited to | Modern, conventional, well-maintained homes | Conventionally built houses and flats in reasonable condition | Older, larger, unconventional, significantly altered or known poor-condition property |
| Property age and type | Recent construction, standard materials | Standard construction, broadly any age in reasonable order | Typically pre-1850, extended, unusual construction or visibly problematic |
| Depth of inspection | Concise visual inspection | Visual inspection of all accessible areas | Detailed inspection of fabric and structure |
| RICS condition ratings (1–3) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Analysis of defects and causes | No | Identified and explained | In depth, with causes and consequences |
| Repair advice and costings | No | Advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance | Repair options, and costings where instructed |
| Valuation included | No | On request as a Red Book valuation | On request as a Red Book valuation |
| Typical report length | Shortest of the three | Mid-length | Longest and most detailed |
- Condition 1
- No repair currently needed.
- Condition 2
- Defects needing attention, but not urgent.
- Condition 3
- Serious and urgent — repair or replace.
The three levels
RICS Level 1 Home Survey
The most concise of the three RICS home survey levels. A visual inspection with condition ratings, suited to modern, conventionally built and apparently well-maintained property.
Read more →RICS Level 2 Home Survey
The standard choice for conventionally built houses and flats in reasonable order. All reasonably accessible areas are inspected, defects are explained, and repairs and maintenance are advised on.
Read more →RICS Level 3 Building Survey
A detailed inspection of the structure and fabric, setting out the causes of defects, their likely consequences, and the options for putting them right.
Read more →Not sure which to instruct?
Describe the property by phone or through the enquiry form and you will get a straight recommendation before any fee is quoted.