RICS Level 2 Survey Report
[Also known as the Homebuyers Survey]
RICS Level 2 Survey Report
Also known as the Homebuyers Survey, this is one of the most popular survey types chosen in a property purchase. Suitable for most properties, not older than 60 years or so, and in a reasonable condition.
Prices start at £473 (inclusive of VAT)
Our Process
For most, a property purchase is the single biggest investment one is likely to make in their lifetime. We understand this process can be stressful, which is why we have adopted a simple, professional and caring approach to our work.
The survey process can be split into 4 stages:
Step 1 - Before The Inspection
We provide you with an opportunity to let us know if you have any questions or concerns about the property you are purchasing. This can be in the initial booking form, at the pre survey telephone discussion (usually the day before the inspection), or at any stage in between. We’ll then go ahead and make all the necessary arrangements with the agents or the vendors for access, letting you know once a date has been arranged.
Step 2 - The Inspection
A detailed inspection by an experienced RICS professional of the inside and outside of the main building is undertaken, including all permanent outbuildings, recording the construction and significant visible defects that are evident.
The inspection is intended to cover as much of the property as is physically accessible. Equipment such as a damp meter, torch, binoculars and a ladder is utilised on the inspection. Where we are unable to access an area, we’ll let you know in the ‘Limitations on the Inspection’ section of the report.
Once we’ve done the inspection, we have another discussion. The aim here is to give you a snapshot of the key findings before the report is produced.
Step 3 - The Report
A concise report is produced using the RICS Level 2 Report format. A blank copy can be found here if you wanted to have a look. The report is loosely structured in the following order:
Summary
Giving you an overall opinion of the property, highlighting any significant defects.
About The Property
Basic information on the property, including comments around energy efficiency, location and environmental factors.
Component Assessment
Details of external and internal building components, including any defects and advice on repairs / improvements. Each component is rated using a traffic light system:
Green (1)- No major repairs needed
Amber (2) Repair(s) needed although not urgent
Red (3) Urgent repair needed.
There is also an NI for the sections that have either not been inspected or not applicable.
Grounds
Comments on the presence, and condition of, outbuildings, garages and gardens (including boundary fencing).
Legals
This is a section summarising the key items your Legal Adviser should take forward with their counterpart.
Summary of Risks
As stated, this section summaries the key risk to people, property and grounds.
Step 4 - The Aftermath
We understand that you may have questions once you have read the report. We therefore simply leave our communication channels open for any questions you may have. We would encourage you to ask questions, even if it’s simply to clarify an item. We sometimes get in touch after a few weeks just to see how the sale is progressing and whether there were any follow on questions.
Need That Little Extra?
Why not check out the Survey First Plus+ options available with a Level 2 Survey Report.
Fast Track [+£120]
Add a Valuation [ from +£90]
Insurance Reinstatement Cost Figure [+£60]
Key Benefits
Why Choose Us?
Pre and Post Survey Calls
We’ll call you the day before the survey, and within 24 hours of the inspection
*price matched on written quotation from a reputable company.
FAQ
Everything You Need to
Know Before Booking
A Level 2 survey is often suitable for conventional houses, flats or bungalows built from common materials, appearing to be in reasonable condition, and one that has not undergone major structural modification. It gives a clear overview of visible defects and maintenance matters.
Ideal for standard, modern homes (built within the last 50 years) that are in reasonable condition. It uses a clear "traffic light" rating system to flag visible defects but does not involve lifting floorboards or heavy probing. It tells you the condition of the home. It is less detailed than a Level 3 report.
A Level 2 survey can be useful for first time buyers purchasing a conventional home in reasonable condition. It explains visible concerns clearly and helps buyers understand the property before exchange.
Yes. Electronic damp meters are used during a RICS Level 2 survey to access damp. Non-intrusive readings are taken against ground floor walls, around window frames, near chimneys and under bathroom and Kitchen fittings. The Surveyor will also check for visible signs of damp.
Yes. The roof is inspected visually from ground level and, where safe to do so, the loft space will be accessed. The survey does not normally involve opening concealed areas or carrying out intrusive inspection.
Yes, a Level 2 survey may be suitable for a conventional flat in reasonable condition. The suitability depends on age, construction, condition, access, and the level of information the buyer needs.
While both surveys cover the same key areas of a property, they differ in their depth of detail. A Level 2 survey acts as a comprehensive 'health check,' whereas a Level 3 survey serves as an in-depth 'analytical review’.
Yes. If the report identifies visible concerns, the buyer may ask questions, seek further advice or discuss the purchase price before exchange.
A Level 2 survey should usually be arranged after an offer is accepted and before exchange of contracts, giving the buyer time to review findings and make informed decisions.
The timescale depends on property access, booking availability and report preparation. Buyers should arrange the survey early to avoid delays before exchange. Our level 2 reports are sent within 5 working days from day of inspection.