If you’re in the process of searching for your next property, or you’ve found it and are ready to proceed, the topic of a property survey has likely come up. A professional survey gives you critical insight into the condition of a home before you commit, potentially saving you thousands of pounds in the process. But there are several options, so how do you know which to choose for the best peace of mind?
Are Surveys Necessary?
Regardless of which survey you choose, one thing’s for certain: a property survey is necessary before you finalise your property purchase. These surveys ensure you’re completely aware of all existing issues like foundational problems, as well as potential problems that might arise in the future. From water damage to invasive plants, it gives you a clear overview of the home and whether repairs will be needed, which also gives you the chance to renegotiate the price.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offers three main types of home survey: the basic Level 1 Condition Report, an intermediate Level 2 Homebuyer Report, and the comprehensive Level 3 Building Survey. While the Level 1 report offers only a brief overview suitable for new-build properties or modern homes in excellent condition, Level 2 and Level 3 surveys provide in-depth information that most property buyers genuinely need to make an informed decision.
RICS Home Survey Level 2
Also known as a HomeBuyer report, a Level 2 survey is suitable for most post-1950 properties that were constructed using typical materials and are in relatively good condition. It provides you with a detailed assessment of the condition of the property, covering the essential elements such as the roof and walls, windows and doors, and any visible elements of the building.
The report outlines the findings in the form of a traffic light system, as explained here by St Helens surveyors Cosey Homes— green issues require no action, amber need repair but not urgently, and red issues signify serious defects that need attention straight away.
A Level 2 survey covers a physical inspection of the inside and outside of the building, including:
-
The construction and condition of the property
-
Any problems that could be hazardous or serious and need urgent attention
-
Issues that need to be investigated further to avoid serious damage or accidents
-
Whether you need additional professional advice before committing to the purchase
-
How much ongoing maintenance will be needed in the future and the potential cost for repairs or restoration
-
A market valuation
-
Noise from surrounding traffic and aircraft
However, a Level 2 survey isn’t all encompassing. As a non-intrusive inspection, your surveyor won’t lift fixed floors, remove covers to electrical supplies, or drill into walls. This means that any hidden defects will remain undiscovered unless there are visual signs on the surface.
It’s also worth noting that because less time is allocated to this type of survey, it’s not as suitable for larger properties as the surveyor may well run out of time to inspect everything as thoroughly compared to a regular-sized property.
RICS Home Survey Level 3
A Level 3 Building Survey or RICS Level 3 Home Survey is a thoroughly comprehensive report that goes into more detail than a Level 2 report. This survey is better suited to larger or older properties, those in more obviously poor conditions, or those constructed in an unusual way or with non-traditional materials like metal buildings.
This survey covers:
-
The construction of the property and what materials were used, as well as how they’ll perform in the future
-
Problems that need urgent attention
-
Visible defects and potential problems posed by hidden issues
-
Areas of the building that need to be investigated in further detail to prevent damage in the future
-
Budget considerations for repairs and restorations, as well as a repair timeline and ongoing maintenance costs
-
Further detail compared to Level 2 into underground drainage, grounds, roof spaces, floors and services
-
Inspection of accessible panels, electrical fittings and chamber covers where it’s safe to do so
-
Noise from traffic and aircraft
-
Whether further advice is needed before committing to your purchase
As with a Level 2 survey, these inspections are non-intrusive, so your surveyor won’t lift floors or drill into walls. It also doesn’t usually contain a valuation so if this is needed, you’ll need to arrange this separately.
Which Survey Do You Need? A Practical Guide
Knowing which survey to choose depends largely on the age of the building, its construction type and condition, as well as your future plans for it. If you’re buying a property that was built after 1950 using traditional construction methods and materials, a Level 2 report is likely to provide you with ample data to know if the property is worth buying. However, if it’s a period property, built prior to 1950, or built with materials that differ from the norm such as timber frames or thatched roofs, a more thorough report is the better investment.
You may also find that a more specific survey fits your needs better, such as a snagging survey that focuses on finishing issues in newly built properties, or a listed building survey that’s carried out by an expert who is familiar with historic construction methods and conservation requirements.
Knowing the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 property surveys, as well as what is and isn’t covered, will help you make the most informed choice when you’re buying a new home. While a Level 3 survey commands a higher cost, it’s a modest fee compared to the potential cost of repairing damage to a building due to a missed defect or ill-informed renovation decision.
Ultimately, the right survey is all about making sure you’re getting the right level of information for your specific property and circumstances, so your property purchase proceeds with your eyes wide open to both its potential and its pitfalls.
Buy or sell quality homes in Devon today
Whether you're buying or selling a home in Devon or the surrounding areas, don’t seek the easy way out, and instead get the best possible advice and support. At Sawdye & Harris, our experienced team guides clients through every aspect of property transactions, from initial valuations through to completion. Contact Sawdye & Harris today to discuss how our expertise can help you navigate property surveys, negotiations, and achieve your property goals.







