RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

Trusted RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

Buying a home is a big commitment, so it’s important to understand its condition before you buy. Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey gives you a clear, easy-to-follow report on any issues with the property. Our qualified surveyors check for problems and provide straightforward advice, so you can make a confident decision. If needed, we can also include a market valuation for a small extra fee.

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What is a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey?

Designed for Properties Built After 1930

A RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey is a professional check of a property's condition before purchase. A qualified RICS surveyor carries out a detailed visual inspection to identify hidden issues. It is suitable for homes in reasonable condition. The report highlights urgent defects, provides legal guidance and offers advice on repairs and maintenance. You can also request a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost for a small extra fee. Environmental checks include risks such as flooding, radon, landfill sites and infrastructure projects like HS2.

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Which Survey Do You Need?

Compare Our Surveys

See the key differences between a Homebuyer Survey and a Building Survey.

Feature	RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey	Building Survey (Level 3)
Best for	Modern homes in good condition	Older, larger or altered properties
Survey Detail	Mid-level inspection covering key defects	Most detailed survey with in-depth structural assessment
Checks for Structural Issues	Basic checks	Comprehensive structural investigation
Includes Cost Estimates for Repairs	No	No
Suitable for Renovation Projects	No	Yes
Survey Report Detail	Clear and concise report with condition ratings	Detailed analysis with professional recommendations
Cost	Lower	Higher

Choosing the right survey ensures you have the best information before purchasing a property. Our RICS-qualified surveyors offer clear, detailed reports tailored to your needs.

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Our Homebuyer Survey Process

Initial Consultation

We begin with a discussion to understand your needs.

Property Inspection

A thorough survey to identify defects and issues.

Detailed Report

Clear and concise findings with recommendations.

Follow-Up Support

We’re available to discuss any concerns.

Making Sense of Your RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

Understand how we assess properties and download a real example.

We use a simple traffic light system to highlight the condition of a property:

No Issues

Everything is in good condition. Just routine maintenance needed.

Needs Attention

Some minor issues. Repairs needed but not urgent.

Urgent Repairs

Serious problems that need fixing immediately.

Take a look at a real RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey to see how we present our findings.

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What We Check in a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey looks at key parts of the property to help you understand its condition.

Chimneys checked for damage
Roof inspected for wear or leaks
Gutters and pipes checked for blockages
Walls checked for cracks and damp
Doors and windows assessed for condition

Roof structure checked if accessible
Walls, ceilingsand floors inspected for cracks or damp
Fireplaces and chimneys reviewed
Fitted units and cupboards checked
Bathrooms checked for leaks and condition

Electric wiring and sockets checked for visible issues
Gas and heating systems inspected where visible
Water supply checked for leaks
Drains reviewed where accessible

Garages and outbuildings checked for condition
Boundary walls and fences inspected
Paths and driveways reviewed

Legal issues flagged for solicitors
Risks such as damp or structural movement noted
Further investigations suggested if needed

Benefits of a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

A RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides essential insights into a property's condition, helping you make an informed decision. From spotting hidden issues to negotiating better deals, here’s why it’s a vital step in the home-buying process.

Spot Issues Early: Identify structural defects, damp or roof problems before you buy.
Avoid Unexpected Costs: Save money by catching repair needs in advance.
Strengthen Your Negotiation: Use the survey to request repairs or adjust the price.
Buy with Confidence: Know the property’s condition before making a decision.
Plan for the Future: Understand potential maintenance and improvements.

How Much Does a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey Cost?

Survey costs vary depending on property type, size and location. Here’s what affects the price:

Property Size and Type

Larger or more complex properties take longer to inspect, increasing survey costs.

Age and Condition

Older or listed buildings may require a more detailed inspection, affecting pricing.

Location

Survey costs vary based on the property's location and ease of access.

Scope of the Survey

More detailed inspections with additional checks may increase costs.

For an accurate quote based on your property, get in touch with our team today.

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RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey: Your Questions Answered

Looking for answers about buying a home in the UK? Browse our frequently asked questions below to learn more about our services and processes. If you can't find the information you're seeking, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly team for personalised assistance.

The choice of survey depends on factors such as the property's age, condition and any planned renovations. For newer homes in good condition, a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey may suffice. For older, larger or modified properties, a Building Survey is recommended to identify potential issues. Consulting with a qualified surveyor can help determine the most appropriate survey for your needs.

Look for surveyors who are members of professional bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Membership ensures adherence to industry standards and codes of practice. You can search for qualified surveyors through the RICS website or seek recommendations from trusted sources.

The duration depends on the property's size and the survey type. Typically, a Homebuyer Report takes a few hours, while a Building Survey may take a full day.

The cost of a survey depends on location, the agreed purchase price and the type of survey needed. Prices vary, so it’s best to get a quote based on your specific property. Get a quote today - contact us to find out how much your survey will cost.

Ensure the surveyor has full access to the property, including lofts and outbuildings. Provide any relevant documentation, such as planning permissions or building regulations approvals. Inform the surveyor of any specific concerns you have about the property.

RICS Help to Buy Valuations What is Help to Buy? Help to Buy is a government scheme introduced in 2013 to help people buy their first home. It allows first-time buyers to borrow up to 20% of the price of a new-build home (or 40% in London) as an interest-free loan for the first five years. Repaying Your Help to Buy Loan If you used Help to Buy, your loan is interest-free for five years. You must repay the full amount within 25 years or earlier if you choose. You can pay back the loan: At any time if you have the funds. By remortgaging (switching to a new mortgage). When you sell your home (the repayment is based on your home's current market value, not the original price). Help to Buy Valuations When repaying your Help to Buy loan, Target, the company managing the scheme, requires a Help to Buy valuation from a RICS-registered surveyor. This valuation determines your home's current market value, which is used to calculate how much you need to repay. If your home’s value has gone down, you repay less. If its value has gone up, you repay more. Once you get a Help to Buy valuation, you must send it to Target, who will confirm the repayment amount. Important Notes: The valuation is only valid for three months, so time your plans carefully. If you sell or remortgage, make sure your valuation is still valid when you complete the process.

The Importance of a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey – A Real Example

A recent RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey uncovered serious issues in a two-bedroom terraced house, highlighting the importance of getting a professional survey before purchasing a property.

Property: 2-bedroom terraced house.

This RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey revealed key issues that could have been costly for the buyer:

Leaking Gutters: Poor drainage was causing significant dampness throughout the property.
Moss and Lichen Growth: Found below a damaged gutter junction, worsening the damp issue.
Interior Damp Staining: Visible on the first-floor bedroom walls, confirming moisture penetration.

This case highlights why a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey is essential—it gives buyers the knowledge to negotiate repairs or price adjustments before committing to a purchase.

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Useful Articles for Homebuyers

Learn more about home surveys, valuations and choosing the right surveyor with these helpful articles.

Not sure whether to get a Homebuyer Survey or a Building Survey? This article explains the key differences.

A simple guide to what a Homebuyer Survey includes and how it can help you avoid costly surprises.

Find out the difference between a market appraisal and a valuation and why a valuation is recommended.

Learn why using an RICS-regulated surveyor ensures expert guidance and high professional standards.

A guide to selecting the right surveyor, including key factors to consider when making your choice.