LOCAL | INDEPENDENT | RICS REGULATED
Residential Surveys backed by
Local Knowledge
We understand that residential survey reports can sometimes feel complex, so we explain our findings clearly, avoid unnecessary jargon and focus on giving you answers, not more questions.
RICS Home Surveys
The right survey will depend on the age, condition and construction of the property. We offer RICS Level 2 and Level 3 Home Surveys and can advise which is most suitable before you instruct us.
HomeBuyer Report
RICS Level 2 Survey
A Level 2 Home Survey is suitable for conventional properties that appear to be in reasonable condition. It highlights significant defects and issues that may affect your purchase.
Typically suitable for:
- Standard houses, flats and bungalows
- Properties of conventional construction
- Homes that appear to be in reasonable condition
- Buyers who want a clear overview of significant defects
Building Survey
RICS Level 3 Survey
A Level 3 Building Survey is suitable for older, larger, altered or more complex properties. It provides a more detailed assessment of the property’s construction, condition and defects.
Typically suitable for:
- Older, larger or significantly extended homes
- Properties of non-standard construction
- Properties that appear to be in poor condition
- Buyers planning substantial repairs or alterations
Optional additions to your survey
Where needed, we can include a market valuation or reinstatement cost assessment for insurance purposes alongside your survey. Both are optional and can be added to your quotation.
Market Valuation
An independent assessment of the property’s market value at the date of inspection.
Reinstatement Cost Assessment
An assessment of the estimated cost of rebuilding the property for buildings insurance purposes.
Vendor (Pre-Sale) Survey
A Vendor Survey gives you an independent view of your property’s condition before it goes on the market. It can identify issues a buyer may raise, giving you time to address them and reducing the risk of delays or renegotiation later.
The survey can help with:
- Understanding the property’s condition before listing
- Identifying defects and maintenance issues buyers may raise
- Preparing the property for sale
- Reducing the risk of unexpected issues later in the process
New-Build Snagging Survey
A detailed inspection of a newly built property to identify defects, unfinished work and poor workmanship before completion or during the early stages of ownership.
The survey can identify:
- Defects in accessible internal and external areas
- Incomplete or unfinished work
- Poor-quality finishes and workmanship
- Issues to raise with the developer
Specific Defect Reports
A focused inspection and report where you are concerned about a particular problem. We explain what is happening, why it is happening, and what next steps you should consider.
Common concerns include:
- Cracking or movement
- Damp and moisture problems
- Timber decay
- Roof defects
- Insulation-related issues
Frequently Asked Questions
Which RICS Home Survey should I choose?
The right survey depends on the property’s age, condition, construction and whether it has been significantly altered. A Level 2 Survey is generally suitable for conventional properties that appear to be in reasonable condition. A Level 3 Survey provides a more detailed assessment and is usually better suited to older, larger, altered or non-standard properties. Send us the property address or estate agent’s listing and we can advise which option is most appropriate.
What is the difference between a mortgage valuation and a home survey?
A mortgage valuation is carried out for the lender to confirm that the property provides suitable security for the loan. It is not a detailed assessment of the property’s condition. A home survey is arranged for you and provides information about defects, maintenance issues and matters that may affect your purchase.
Can I ask the surveyor to look at particular concerns?
Yes. Please tell us about any concerns before the inspection so they can be considered as part of the survey. A Specific Defect Report may be more appropriate where detailed advice is required on one particular issue.
When can I expect to receive my report?
We will confirm the expected turnaround when you book. Reports are prepared promptly following the inspection, although the timeframe may vary depending on the type of survey and the size or complexity of the property.
Can a market valuation or reinstatement cost assessment be included?
Where appropriate, a market valuation or reinstatement cost assessment for buildings insurance purposes can be added to your survey. These are optional services, and the additional fee will be confirmed when we provide your quotation.
Can I speak to the surveyor after receiving my report?
Yes. Once your report has been issued, you can speak directly with the surveyor to discuss the findings and clarify anything you are unsure about. Our service does not end when the report is sent.
How much does a residential survey cost?
The fee depends on the type of survey required and factors such as the property’s size, age, construction, condition and location. Send us the property details or estate agent’s listing and we will provide a clear quotation before you instruct us.
When is the best time to arrange a survey?
A survey is normally arranged after your offer has been accepted and before contracts are exchanged. Booking it early gives you time to consider the findings, obtain further advice where necessary and make an informed decision before becoming legally committed to the purchase.
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