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The different types of house surveys

Nov 12, 2024
House Survey
While not mandatory, a house survey is highly recommended. It can help you spot significant issues and avoid unforeseen expenses further down the line, from a leaking roof to unstable walls. If you’re unsure about the different types of house surveys, our guide can help. Read on to learn more about what house surveys are, as well as their costs and timeframes.

What is a house survey?

A house survey is an expert inspection of your property's conditions conducted by a surveyor. They'll report any significant faults and provide recommendations for repairs. They’ll also include a commentary on the property, from the wall and roof type to the flooring and glazing.

Before arranging your survey, ensure that the surveyor is a member of the two main accrediting bodies:

  • RICS – Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors

  • RPSA – Residential Property Surveyors Association

 

 

Do I need a house survey?

A house survey can flag significant faults, and you could renegotiate the selling price to account for the extra costs. A house survey is particularly useful if you're:

 

  • Unsure about your property's structural conditions

  • Buying an old property

  • Buying a property with a thatched roof or timber frame

  • Buying a listed building

 

Types of house surveys

There are three types of house surveys:

  • RICS Home Survey – Level 1

  • RICS Home Survey – Level 2

  • RICS Home Survey – Level 3

 

RICS Home Survey - Level 1

Previously known as a ‘Condition Survey’, a Level 1 Survey gives a general overview of the property’s conditions. It’s the most basic and affordable type. It provides a ‘traffic light’ rating and risk assessment of the property’s services and grounds. It doesn’t include any advice or a valuation.

It’s ideal for properties built from common building materials or that are in good condition. It typically lasts up to one hour and costs between £300 and £900.

 

RICS Home Survey - Level 2

Ideal for properties under 50 years old, a Level 2 Survey highlights issues like damp and subsidence and identifies anything that doesn’t meet the building regulations. It also includes the surveyor’s advice on repairs and maintenance.

It’s a non-intrusive assessment, so the surveyor won’t look behind furniture or underneath floorboards. They’ll only identify surface-level issues. It usually lasts up to four hours and costs between £400 and £1,000.

  

RICS Home Survey - Level 3

A Level 3 Survey, previously known as a ‘Building Survey’, provides an in-depth inspection of the property's structure and conditions, including the surveyor's advice on maintenance. They’ll also check the attic and underneath the floorboards. 

This type of survey is ideal if your property is over 50 years old, of unusual design or in poor condition. It’s also recommended if you’re planning significant renovations or have concerns about some parts of the home. It usually lasts a day and costs between £630 and £1,500. 

 

Explore our guide to getting a house survey for more information and advice.

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