What is the difference between a RICS Level 2 Survey and a RICS Level 3 Survey?

A RICS Level 2 Survey is generally suited to more conventional properties that appear to be in reasonable condition. A RICS Level 3 Survey is more detailed and is often more appropriate for older, altered, larger or less straightforward homes.

How do I know which survey I need?

The right survey depends on the age, condition, construction type and complexity of the property. If you are unsure, we can help you understand which option is likely to be most suitable.

Is a survey only for people buying a home?

No. Surveys can also be useful for homeowners who want a clearer understanding of a property's condition, or for property investors assessing a potential purchase.

Will the survey highlight serious problems?

A survey is designed to identify visible defects, areas of concern and issues that may need further attention. It can help you understand the condition of the property and whether there are risks you should consider before moving forward.

Does the survey include a valuation?

That depends on the service selected. If you need advice on what is included, we can help explain the differences before you book.

Do I need to attend the inspection?

In most cases, no. The inspection is carried out by the surveyor, and the findings are then provided in your report.

What happens after I receive the report?

You can review the findings and use them to guide your next steps, whether that means proceeding, seeking further advice, planning repairs or reconsidering the purchase.

Home Surveys for First-Time Buyers

Buying your first home is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. We make sure you know exactly what you are buying before you commit.

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WHY YOU NEED A SURVEY

The mortgage valuation is not protecting you. It is protecting the bank.

When your mortgage is approved, the lender carries out a valuation. Many first-time buyers assume this means the property has been checked and is fine. It has not!

A mortgage valuation confirms the property is worth what you are paying for it. That is all it does. It is not checking for structural problems, hidden damp, roof defects or any of the issues that could cost you thousands after you have already exchanged contracts.

A RICS home survey is the only independent inspection that works entirely for you. No lender, no estate agent, no seller. Just an honest, expert assessment of the property you are about to buy.

WHAT WE FIND

What our surveyors find that buyers have no idea about

Our surveyors carry out thousands of inspections every year. Here are the kinds of issues that get missed without a professional survey.

Active woodworm in roof structures

Subsidence that sellers have not disclosed

Damp hidden behind freshly painted walls

Roof defects requiring thousands of pounds of work

Structural movement in older properties

Drainage issues and failed guttering

In every one of these cases, the buyer used their survey report to renegotiate the price, budget for repairs before committing, or make an informed decision to walk away. That is what a survey is for.

WHICH SURVEY DO YOU NEED

Which survey is right for your first home?

Level 2

RICS Level 2 Survey

The most popular choice for first-time buyers purchasing a standard property built after 1900 that appears to be in reasonable condition. A thorough inspection covering the condition of the property, any visible defects and maintenance concerns, with a clear report you can actually understand.

Level 3

RICS Level 3 Survey

For older properties, those that have been significantly altered, or anything that feels more complex. The most detailed inspection available. Your surveyor spends a full day at the property and produces a comprehensive report covering structure, condition, defects and repair costs.

Not sure which survey you need?

Answer three quick questions and we will tell you exactly which survey is right for your property.

Find my survey

Why choose Home Surveying

We are the UK’s largest independent surveying firm. Survey only — no conflicts, no compromises. We have no ties to lenders, no pressure to tell you what you want to hear. Our only job is to give you the most honest and accurate picture of the property you are buying.

Guidance throughout the whole process

From booking your survey to receiving your report, you get support at every stage so you always know what is happening and what to do next.

Fast, clear survey reports

You receive your report quickly, with clear information about the property’s condition, so you can make decisions without unnecessary delays.

Direct support from your surveyor

You can speak directly with your surveyor, ask questions, and get clear answers from the professional who understands your property.

Clear communication from start to finish

We keep things simple and easy to understand, so you are never left confused by technical language or unsure about the next step.

Personal attention for every client

We take the time to understand your needs and concerns, giving you a service that feels personal, helpful, and focused on you.

Honest advice you can trust

You get straightforward, independent advice that helps you understand any issues with the property and move forward with confidence.

Over half of our clients are first-time buyers. We understand the process, the anxiety and the questions you have — because we have answered them thousands of times. Our surveyors are available to speak to you directly, explain their findings in plain English and make sure you feel confident about every decision.

First-time buyer survey questions answered

Do I need a survey if I am getting a mortgage?

Yes. Your mortgage lender carries out a valuation, not a survey. A valuation protects the bank. A survey protects you.

When should I book a survey?

Book your survey as soon as your offer is accepted and before you exchange contracts. This gives you time to act on the findings.

How long does a survey take?

A Level 2 survey typically takes half a day on site. A Level 3 survey takes a full day. Your report is usually delivered within 3.2 days of the inspection.

Can I speak to my surveyor?

Yes. All of our clients have direct access to their surveyor to ask questions and discuss the report.

Can I use the survey to renegotiate the price?

Survey findings may help you make a more informed decision about a purchase, including raising issues with the seller if significant defects are identified. Any negotiation will depend on the circumstances and the nature of the findings.

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      EXCELLENT
  Based on 453 reviews
  
  
      Posted on Google 
 
  Sue Hinde
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had our Survey done by Kyle he highlighted issues that needed attention and was very thorough , he has been extremely helpful and answered any questions that we didn’t understand we can’t recommend him Highly enough.
    Posted on Google 
 
  Reeve Archer
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a survey carried out by kyle W and he has been fantastic throughout the purchase of my property. Before carrying out the survey he phoned to ask if there was anything i wanted him to look at specifically which i thought was great. He then done a massively thorough job of the survey, things i wouldn’t even consider looking at. I also requested he phoned me a couple times to give me more information on certain things and he got back to me the same day and really helped with what i needed. Couldn’t recommend enough
    Posted on Google 
 
  K M
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent experience from start to finish. I was looking for a reliable survey. Home Surveying was recommended to me. Excellent service. Very competitive price. Fast service and extensive report. They adviced me to commission a lesser expensive report although I was going for the top one but they said based on the property age , that I won't need it. Their report is extensive, covering every aspect. Cannot pleased enough with the quality and speed of the service
    Posted on Google 
 
  Glyn Norman
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service and a nice guy
    Posted on Google 
 
  J
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Booked a level 2 survey through countrywide and it was passed over to Homey Surveying. Inspection completed by Mohamed Zaki - very thorough and informative. Had a call with Mohamed a couple of days after receiving the report and he went through the main issues with us and took the time to let us understand the issues, and how they might affect us.
    Posted on Google 
 
  Robert Hall
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Survey was excellent and very thorough. Received the report super quick too which was good. Would recommend to anyone buying a home

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