A RICS home survey allows an expert to fully investigate and report on the condition of a house, providing an easy-to-understand, colour-coded report. Understanding the cost of rectifying various reported issues can save you money in the long term, either by helping you negotiate a better purchase price or by allowing you to plan works ahead of time. The survey will also give you peace of mind that when you purchase the property, there are no costly repairs that take you by surprise.
RICS Home Surveys are undertaken by RICS members as defined in the RICS Home Survey Standard guidance notes.
What are the Different Types of RICS Home Survey?
There are three types of RICS Home Surveys:
- Home Survey Level 1
- Home Survey Level 2
- Home Survey Level 3
Level 1 – The most basic survey which generally highlights the construction of the property and any high-level issues. Suitable for new build properties.
Level 2 – More detail than a level 2 survey and goes into further detail regarding materials, defects and remedial options. Generally used for traditional and period properties. h-level issues. Suitable for new build properties.
Level 3 – This survey is the most detailed survey regarding the inspection and the report. Use where the property is complex, non-standard construction, historic and where the property has undergone major remodelling. The report will include detail information on all defects, remedial options and estimated costs for the major identified remedial works.
There are several types of surveys available, each suited to different needs and property types. Knowing which one to choose can make a big difference in the information you receive.
Which Home Survey Should I Choose?
Choosing between a level 2 and 3 survey will depend on various factors:
- Type of property – non-traditional or complex properties may require a level 3 survey
- Age of property – older properties generally have hidden defects. These properties may have had numerous alterations over the years and so a level 3 survey would be beneficial.
- Budget – a level 3 survey is more expensive than a level 2 survey.
- Future alterations – If you plan to undertake internal / external alterations, extensions etc. a level 3 survey will give you more detailed information compared to a level 2 survey
An RICS chartered building surveyor will be able to further compare and contrast the levels of survey, ensuring you make the right decision based on the factors highlighted above.
The RICS have produced a detailed overview of the three different surveys and have also presented this information in a visual table – please see the link below: