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Benefits of a Home Survey
Making the right decision on your biggest asset requires you to have all the facts in front of you.
Here are the main benefits to having a RICS Home Survey:
1: Understand the past and present issues - Having this knowledge enables you to look after the property now and into the future, protecting your investment. All buildings are different, our reports act as a manual for you to refer back to whenever.
2: Save Money - Avoid expensive surprise maintenance costs, make sure you are paying the right price for the true condition of the property, lower your financial risk for lenders and budget maintenace costs. A professional and detailed report can save you thousands, if not, hundreds of thousands.
3: Peace of mind - We know it can be a stressful time and a lot can depend on the report. We make it easy to understand and are always reachable, pre and post report. Being a RICS regulated company, we act on the highest technical and ethical standards, along with being covered by adequate PI insurance.
Which Home Survey?
If you’re buying, selling, or maintaining a residential property, choosing the right RICS Home Survey is important. If you are unsure, don't hesitate to give us a call, we are happy to talk through your situation with no obligation, we understand it helps to talk to someone.
The most common option is a Level 2 Home Survey - Here’s what a 'Level 2' and a 'Level 3' Home Survey offer, along with common reasons as to why you might need either one:
RICS Home Survey - Level 2
Best for: Modern or conventional properties (typically post-1920) that appear to be in reasonable condition and haven’t been significantly altered.
This mid-level survey is the most popular choice for buyers and sellers. It provides a clear, professional opinion on the overall condition of the property, highlighting any visible issues that could affect your decision or require attention.
What’s included:
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A detailed visual inspection of the building, services, and grounds (without testing)
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Inspection of accessible areas such as roof spaces, basements, and cellars (if safe to enter)
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Objective assessment of the property's overall condition
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Identification of significant defects and risks
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Advice on necessary repairs and ongoing maintenance
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Recommendations for further investigation, where needed
Common scenarios for a Level 2 Survey:
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Buying a standard house or flat built in the 20th or 21st century
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Purchasing a property that seems generally well maintained
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Selling a home and wanting to present a clear report to buyers
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Buying-to-let and needing an overview of repair obligations
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Seeking mortgage lender approval (many lenders accept a Level 2 survey)
This survey strikes a balance between detail and cost. It is not suitable for older, unusual, heavily modified, or highly defective/poorly maintained properties.
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RICS Home Survey - Level 3 (Building Survey)
Best for: Older, larger, extended, unusual, or run-down properties, or if you’re planning significant works.
Also known as a Building Survey, this is the most comprehensive option. It gives a thorough understanding of the property’s construction, condition, and any existing or potential issues.
What’s included:
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An extensive visual inspection of all accessible areas, including roof voids, floor voids, basements, and external structures
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Assessment of construction methods and materials used
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Detailed description of defects, including likely causes and risks of hidden issues
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Prioritised repair recommendations with guidance on timescales
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General advice on maintenance, future repairs, and property management
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Indicative cost estimates for repairs (if requested and agreed in advance)
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Fewer referrals for further investigation compared to a Level 2 survey
Common scenarios for a Level 3 Survey:
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Purchasing a period property or listed building
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Buying a home built pre1920, or of non-standard construction with multiple extensions
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Acquiring a property that has been neglected, is visibly deteriorating, or has signs of structural movement
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Planning major works such as extensions or refurbishment
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Wanting a full technical understanding before making an investment decision
This survey provides a structural analysis, enabling budgeting, or project planning for more complex buildings.
RICS 'Red Book' Valuation
We provide Valuations that require an experienced Surveyor to provide an impartial, arm's length and evidenced-based Valuation in accordance with the 'Red Book' (see section below) which outlines the global standard for Valuation practice.
We have outlined the common scenarios where this type of Valuation is required:
- Help to Buy Loan Valuations
- Shared Ownership
- Probate
- Matrimonial
- Capital Gain Tax
- General Dispute Valuation
RICS 'Red Book' Valuation
We provide RICS regulated formal Valuations which are fully impartial, at arm's length and evidence based in accordance with the 'Red Book' (See section below). The Red Book outlines the global standard for Valuation practice.
Standard 'Red Book' Valuation - Lending
Are you making a mortgage or re-mortgage application? Let your financial adviser know we
can supply a valuation when required.
'Help to Buy' Valuations
An RICS report is needed for properties bought under the 'Help to Buy' government scheme in order to redeem your loan. Just contact us for a quote
Capital Gains Tax Valuation
We can provide retrospective and current market valuations in order to assist you and your
tax advisers with CGT assessment, whether for a single property asset or a portfolio.
Matramonial/ Division of Equity
If you require a valuation for legal proceedings or mediation, we will provide a report
promptly on request.
Probate / Inheritance Tax Valuations
An RICS Valuation for Probate is required when the value of a Deceased Estate
exceeds a certain tax threshold. Our professional service is ready to help when needed.
Shared Ownership Valuations
Required for properties bought under the Shared Ownership scheme. Required when selling the property, remortgaging or repaying the loan.
