A RICS Home Survey is a professional inspection of a property’s condition, carried out by a surveyor accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). It helps you understand any issues with the property before you buy it — from structural problems to signs of damp, roof damage, or outdated electrics. There are different levels of survey depending on the age, type, and condition of the property, each offering different levels of detail. We’ll guide you through the process with friendly advice before and after your survey, so you feel informed and confident about your decision.

A RICS Level 2 (HomeBuyer) Survey and a Level 3 (Building) Survey differ mainly in scope, detail and intended use:

• Scope & Depth

  • Level 2: A HomeBuyer Report covers all readily accessible areas of a conventional property. You get a summary of each section, condition ratings (1–3), plus advice on repairs and maintenance.

  • Level 3: A Building Survey is a full “structural” inspection. It examines all accessible fabric and services in detail, notes defects, and often includes sketches or floor plans.

• When to Choose

  • Level 2 is ideal for modern, well-maintained homes where you simply need reassurance—and a valuation—to negotiate or budget for minor repairs.

  • Level 3 is best for older, unusual or run-down properties, or if you’re planning major works or conversions and need a comprehensive picture of every risk.

• Report Output

  • Level 2 gives a concise report with clear ratings, a market valuation and a summary of urgent issues.

  • Level 3 delivers a detailed narrative report, often dozens of pages long, with annotated drawings, in-depth defect analysis and long-term maintenance guidance.

• Cost & Timescale

  • Level 2 surveys are quicker and more cost-effective—commonly used by first-time buyers or lenders.

  • Level 3 surveys take longer to complete and cost more, reflecting the extra time and expertise involved.

In short: if you need a fast, clear overview on a straightforward home, go Level 2; if you want a deep-dive into every element—especially in an older or complex building—Level 3 is the right choice.

In a RICS Level 2 (HomeBuyer) Survey, your surveyor will inspect all readily accessible parts of the property, including:

• Roof and Loft
  – Roof coverings, flashings, chimneys and gutters
  – Loft space (where there’s safe access) including insulation, joists and timbers

• External Fabric
  – Walls (brick, stone, render, cladding) for cracks, bulges or movement
  – Windows, doors and external joinery for signs of decay or poor sealing
  – External decorations and finishes

• Grounds and Boundaries
  – Drainage gullies, external pipes and outlets
  – Patios, paths, driveways and boundary walls/fences

• Internal Areas
  – Floors, ceilings, walls and finishes for cracks, damp or distortion
  – Stairs and handrails for safety and structural soundness
  – Built-in fittings (e.g. cupboards) for obvious defects

• Services (Non-Invasive Check)
  – Heating system, visible pipework and radiators
  – Hot- and cold-water outlets
  – Basic electrical fixtures (switches, sockets)
  – Drainage visible from inspection chambers

• Valuation and Condition Ratings
  – Market valuation at survey date
  – Condition ratings (1 = no repair needed, 2 = some repair needed, 3 = urgent repair)

What’s not included:

• No invasive opening up (e.g. lifting floors or chasing into walls)

• No detailed testing of services (you’d need a specialist electrical or gas safety check)

This gives you a clear, photographed-and-rated snapshot of your home’s condition, so you can budget for repairs, negotiate price and move forward with confidence.