RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

A focused inspection that assesses the property's condition and highlights any significant issues before you commit to buying.

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What is a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey?

Recommended 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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What we check in a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey includes

Outside the property
  • 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
Inside the property
  • Roof structure checked if accessible
  • Walls, ceilings and floors inspected for cracks or damp
  • Fireplaces and chimneys reviewed
  • Fitted units and cupboards checked
  • Bathrooms checked for leaks and condition
Services (Visible parts only)
  • Electric wiring and sockets checked for visible issues
  • Gas and heating systems inspected where visible
  • Water supply checked for leaks
  • Drains reviewed where accessible
Grounds
  • Garages and outbuildings checked for condition
  • Boundary walls and fences inspected
  • Paths and driveways reviewed
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.
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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. Most reports are delivered the next working day, giving you clarity as quickly as possible. In some cases, reports may take up to three working days, depending on the complexity of the property.
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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.
  • icon Spot Issues Early: Identify structural defects, damp or roof problems before you buy.
  • icon Avoid Unexpected Costs: Save money by catching repair needs in advance.
  • icon Strengthen Your Negotiation: Use the survey to request repairs or adjust the price.
  • icon Buy with Confidence: Know the property’s condition before making a decision.
  • icon Plan for the Future: Understand potential maintenance and improvements.
  • icon Named UK's Best Surveyors for 2024, 2025 and 2026

Being named the UK's Best Surveyors for 2024, 2025 and 2026 by Compare My Move is an incredible recognition of our dedication to providing exceptional service and RICS-accredited expertise. When you choose Camsure, you’re choosing confidence and quality every step of the way.

Buy with Confidence with a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

A focused inspection that assesses the property's condition and highlights any significant issues before you commit to buying.
Request a FREE Quote →
or Book your survey here!
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Our 4 Step RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey Process Explained

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.

RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Most reports are delivered the next working day, giving you clarity as quickly as possible. In some cases, reports may take up to three working days, depending on the complexity of the property.

How much does a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey cost?

Survey costs vary depending on property type, size and location.
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Property Size and Type

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

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Age and Condition

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

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Location

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

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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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or Book your survey here!

Making Sense of Your RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

Understand how we assess properties and download a real example.
No Issues

No significant issues identified just routine maintenance needed.

Needs Attention

Some issues identified, repairs needed but not urgent.

Urgent Repairs

Serious or potentially serious issues or repairs identified.

Take a look at a real RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey to see how we present our findings.
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Real Example: The Importance of a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

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.

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

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

Which Survey Do You Need?

See the key differences between a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey and a RICS Level 3 Home Building Survey.
Feature RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey RICS Level 3 Home Building Survey
Best for Unaltered post war properties in reasonable condition Older, larger or altered properties
Inspection Depth Identifies visible defects and key risks Full in depth inspection of structure and condition
Inspection Scope Basic assessment Comprehensive visual only investigation
Includes Cost Estimates for Repairs No No
Suitable for Renovation Projects No Yes
Survey Style Clear and concise with condition ratings Detailed, technical and tailored advice
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.
Find Out More Need a Valuation Too?

Buy with Confidence with a RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey

A focused inspection that assesses the property's condition and highlights any significant issues before you commit to buying.
Request a FREE Quote →
or Book your survey here!
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Useful Articles for Homebuyers

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

FAQs & Common Defects

Do I Need A Survey As Well As A Valuation?

Market Appraisal vs Valuation

How to Choose a Surveyor?