RICS Surveys
Overview
RICS Surveys Overview: Which Survey is Right for You?
Choosing the right survey for your property purchase is essential to making an informed decision. At Crown Survey & Valuation, we offer a range of RICS surveys tailored to your specific needs, from understanding the condition of your home to getting detailed insights for more complex properties.
What Are RICS Surveys?
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) establishes a reliable framework for property surveys in the UK. As RICS-registered surveyors, we follow strict standards to provide detailed insights into the condition and value of residential properties.
RICS surveys come in three main types, each designed for different property types and client needs. Here is a quick overview to help you choose the one that is right for you.
RICS Level 1 Survey: Condition Report
Best for: Newer properties or homes in good condition
A Level 1 Survey, also known as a Condition Report, provides a basic overview of the property’s condition. It is ideal for modern homes or properties in seemingly good condition where no major concerns are anticipated.
What It Covers:
- A snapshot of the propertys overall condition
- Identifies urgent defects that need attention
- Highlights potential risks and legal issues
What It Does Not Cover:
- Detailed investigation of hidden or significant defects
- Repair costs or remedial advice
Who should consider this?
Buyers of relatively new or well-maintained properties looking for a straightforward summary of the condition before purchase.
Ready To Book Your RICS Level 1 Survey?
RICS Level 2 Survey: HomeBuyer Report
Best for: Older properties or homes in reasonable condition
A Level 2 Survey or HomeBuyer Report offers a more in-depth look at the property condition than a Level 1 Survey. It includes a detailed inspection of the property and provides advice on necessary repairs and future maintenance.
What It Covers:
- Structural condition of the property
- Defects like damp, subsidence, or roof issues
- Advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance
- Market valuation and insurance reinstatement cost
What It Does Not Cover:
- Detailed investigation of concealed defects
- Comprehensive repair cost estimates
Who should consider this?
Ready To Book Your RICS Level 2 Survey?
RICS Level 3 Survey: Building Survey
Best for: Older or significantly altered properties, or homes in poor condition
What It Covers:
- Thorough inspection of the property structure and fabric
- Identifies all major and minor defects
- Detailed advice on repairs, maintenance, and future risks
- Defect repair cost estimation
- No intrusive investigations, but may recommend further specialist surveys
What It Does Not Cover:
- Planning and building control compliance verification, but checks changes requiring approvals
Who should consider this?
Buyers of older, larger, or altered properties who need a detailed understanding of potential defects, repairs, and future costs.
Ready To Book Your RICS Level 3 Survey?
Which Survey Should You Choose?
New Build/Modern Home in Good Condition
Opt for a Level 1 Survey (Condition Report) if you simply need reassurance that the property is in sound condition.
Older Home in Reasonable Condition:
Choose a Level 2 Survey (HomeBuyer Report) for a more in-depth look at the property, including defects, repairs, and a market valuation.
Older or Altered Home, or Property in Poor Condition
Select a Level 3 Survey (Building Survey) for a detailed inspection and full understanding of the property issues, repair costs, and future risks.
Still need help? Follow the options below
Which Survey Should You Choose?
New Build/Modern Home in Good Condition
Opt for a Level 1 Survey (Condition Report) if you simply need reassurance that the property is in sound condition.
Older Home in Reasonable Condition:
Choose a Level 2 Survey (HomeBuyer Report) for a more in-depth look at the property, including defects, repairs, and a market valuation.
Older or Altered Home, or Property in Poor Condition
Select a Level 3 Survey (Building Survey) for a detailed inspection and full understanding of the property’s issues, repair costs, and future risks.
Why Choose Crown Survey & Valuation?
At Crown Survey & Valuation, we are experienced RICS surveyors dedicated to providing clear, detailed reports that help you make informed decisions. Whether you are purchasing a new home, an older property, or a house with significant alterations, our surveys give you peace of mind.
Comparison of Home Survey Types
Use the table below to find the best survey for your property. If you are unsure or need something specific, talk to your RICS surveyor before the inspection. They will explain your options and provide clear pricing for any additional services.
| Service features | Valuation | Level 1 | Level 2 (survey only) |
Level 2 (survey and valuation) |
Level 3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Inspection by RICS qualified surveyor | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Type of inspection | Basic | Basic | Standard | ✓ | Detailed |
| Reinstatement cost | Optional | Optional | ✓ | ||
| Market valuation | ✓ | Optional | ✓ | ||
| Property sales comparables | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Old & historic property | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Large extensions or alterations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Planned extension or alterations | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Property in poor condition | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Non-standard construction | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Condition ratings | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Visible issues & defects reported | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Problems requiring urgent attention | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Areas requiring further investigation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Maintenance advice | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Photos of defects | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Energy efficiency ratings | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Future impact of repairs & materials | ✓ | ||||
| Potential problems due to hidden defects | ✓ | ||||
| Repair options & timeline | ✓ | ||||
| Estimated cost of repairs | Optional Extra | ||||
| Comments about energy improvements | ✓ |