Services & Price List
We are here to help you understand the difference between the levels of RICS house survey. This can help you to effectively know which is right for your new property.
If you're unsure what you need to request, please call or email us for some advice.
We will always recommend the most economical and appropriate service you require. This process can be confusing, so advice at this stage can be invaluable.
HOMEBUYER SURVEYS
LEVEL 1 RICS SURVEY
An RICS Level 1 Survey, also known as a Condition Report, is the most basic and cost-effective type of property survey offered by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). It is ideal for newer properties or homes in generally good condition and provides an overview of the property's condition without extensive detail.
This survey highlights key issues such as significant defects or urgent repairs, focusing on areas that may need immediate attention. It uses a simple traffic light system to rate different parts of the property:
- Green: No issues; the property is in good condition.
- Amber: Some issues may require future attention.
- Red: Serious problems that need urgent repair or investigation.
An RICS Level 1 Survey does not include detailed advice on repairs, property valuations, or recommendations for ongoing maintenance. It is designed to provide peace of mind for buyers or homeowners who need a general overview of the building's condition.
If you are purchasing a property or want reassurance about its overall condition, an RICS Level 1 Survey can be a quick, affordable solution.
RICS LEVEL 1 SURVEY FROM £355
LEVEL 2 RICS SURVEY
An RICS Level 2 Survey, often referred to as a HomeBuyer Report, is a mid-level property survey provided by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). It is suited for standard properties in reasonable condition and is the most popular choice for homebuyers.
This type of survey offers a detailed assessment of a property’s condition, highlighting visible defects, potential risks, and areas requiring maintenance or repair. Using a clear traffic light system, it rates the condition of different elements of the property:
- Green: No significant issues; the property is in good condition.
- Amber: Some issues may require attention in the future.
- Red: Serious problems that need urgent repair or further investigation.
Unlike an RICS Level 1 Survey, the Level 2 Survey provides more in-depth information, including advice on necessary repairs, ongoing maintenance, and potential risks that may affect the property. It can also include an optional property valuation and insurance reinstatement cost, helping buyers make informed decisions.
If you’re purchasing a home and want a thorough, easy-to-understand report from experienced professionals, an RICS Level 2 Survey is an excellent choice.
RICS LEVEL 2 SURVEY FROM £425
Building Survey
LEVEL 3 RICS SURVEY
An RICS Level 3 Survey, commonly known as a Building Survey, is the most comprehensive property survey offered by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). It is ideal for older properties, larger homes, or buildings that are in poor condition or have undergone significant alterations.
This detailed survey provides an in-depth analysis of the property’s structure, condition, and any visible defects. Unlike the Level 1 and Level 2 Surveys, the Level 3 Survey includes expert advice on necessary repairs, maintenance, and potential future issues. It also provides recommendations for remedial works and may include estimates for repair costs, helping you plan ahead.
The survey thoroughly examines all accessible areas of the property, offering a detailed breakdown of:
- Structural integrity and significant defects.
- Damp, timber decay, or other moisture-related issues.
- Roof, walls, floors, windows, and drainage.
- Advice on ongoing maintenance and potential future risks.
An RICS Level 3 Survey is the best choice if you are purchasing an older property, planning significant renovations, or simply want a complete understanding of your building’s condition.
RICS LEVEL 3 SURVEY FROM £475
SNAGGING SURVEY
SNAGGING SURVEY FROM £425
A snagging survey is a specialist inspection designed to identify defects, unfinished work, or poor-quality workmanship in newly built or recently refurbished properties. It ensures that the property meets the required standards and complies with building regulations. This type of survey is essential for anyone purchasing a new-build home or undergoing significant renovations to ensure the work has been completed to a high standard.
Our qualified surveyors will inspect the property thoroughly, checking for both minor cosmetic issues and significant defects. Common issues highlighted during a snagging survey include:
- Poorly fitted doors, windows, or kitchen units.
- Cracks in walls or ceilings.
- Faulty plumbing, heating, or electrical installations.
- Incorrectly installed insulation or ventilation systems.
- Issues with external features such as driveways, roofs, and guttering.
Once the survey is complete, you will receive a detailed snagging report highlighting all the identified issues, complete with photographic evidence and recommendations for rectification. This report can be shared with your builder or contractor to ensure all necessary repairs are addressed before your warranty period ends.
Why is a Snagging Survey Important?
Even new homes can have defects, and addressing these early will save you time, stress, and money in the long run. A snagging survey ensures you get the quality and finish you deserve.
VAULATIONS
HELP TO BUY VALUATION
A Help to Buy valuation is an independent property valuation carried out by a qualified RICS surveyor, specifically required when selling, re-mortgaging, or repaying a Help to Buy equity loan. This valuation ensures compliance with Homes England's requirements and accurately determines the current market value of your property.
As part of the Help to Buy scheme, an RICS-compliant valuation is essential to confirm the equity owed or to support a sale or re-mortgage. The valuation must meet strict criteria, including:
- Being conducted by an RICS-accredited surveyor.
- Including a full inspection of the property.
- Providing a detailed, evidence-based valuation report with comparable market data.
- Remaining valid for 3 months.
When Do You Need a Help to Buy Valuation?
You will need a Help to Buy valuation if:
- You are selling your home and need to repay the equity loan.
- You want to re-mortgage your property to pay off the loan or reduce the loan amount.
- You wish to stair-step and repay part of the equity loan.
HELP TO BUY VALUATIONS
FROM £325
RESIDENTIAL VALUATION
A residential valuation is a professional assessment of a property's market value, typically carried out by an RICS-registered surveyor. This type of valuation is commonly required for purposes such as securing a mortgage, assessing the value of a property for sale or purchase, or meeting legal or financial requirements.
During the valuation, the surveyor evaluates key factors that influence the property’s worth, including:
- Location and local market trends.
- Property size, layout, and condition.
- Comparable sales in the area.
- Any structural issues or features that could affect value.
Unlike an RICS survey, a residential valuation is not a detailed inspection of the property’s condition. It focuses solely on providing an accurate, objective estimate of the property's current market value or reinstatement cost for insurance purposes.
Whether you are buying, selling, or need a valuation for legal or financial purposes, our qualified surveyors provide professional, reliable residential valuations tailored to your needs.
RESIDENTIAL VALUATION FROM £325
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY VALUATION
A small commercial property valuation is a professional assessment of the market value of a commercial property, such as offices, retail units, or small industrial spaces. This valuation is typically required for purposes such as securing commercial mortgages, setting rental rates, buying or selling property, or meeting legal and tax obligations.
Carried out by an RICS-registered surveyor, the valuation considers various factors that impact the property’s value, including:
- Location and market demand in the commercial sector.
- Property size, layout, and suitability for intended use.
- Current market conditions and recent sales of comparable properties.
- Lease terms, rental income potential, and occupancy status.
- Any structural or condition issues affecting the property’s value.
Unlike a full survey, a valuation focuses specifically on determining the property's market worth or insurance reinstatement value, providing you with an objective and accurate assessment.
Whether you are purchasing, selling, or require a valuation for financial or business planning purposes, our qualified surveyors deliver precise, reliable valuations tailored to your needs
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