RICS Home Surveys on the Isle of Wight

If you are buying a property on the Island, a survey will tell you about its condition before you exchange contracts. We offer both levels of the RICS Home Survey. Every inspection is carried out, and every report written, by Joel MacDonald MRICS.

Level 2 or Level 3?

	Level 2 Home Survey	Level 3 Home Survey
Previously known as	HomeBuyer Report	Building Survey
Suitable for	Conventional houses and flats in reasonable condition	Older, larger, listed or altered properties, or those in poor condition
Inspection	Visible and accessible areas	More thorough inspection, in greater detail
Condition ratings	Yes	Yes
Likely causes of defects	Limited	Yes
Repair options and advice	Outline	Detailed
Estimated repair costs	No	Yes
Useful if planning works	Limited	Yes

As a general guide, a Level 2 suits a modern or relatively standard home that appears to be in good order. A Level 3 is the better choice if the property is pre-1900 or listed, of unusual construction, has been significantly extended or altered, shows signs of neglect, or you intend to renovate.

If you are unsure, call Joel before you book. He can usually tell from a short conversation and the sales particulars which survey is appropriate.

Level 2 Home Survey Level 3 Home Survey

Planning Changes to the Property

If you are thinking of extending, converting or altering the property after you buy, tell us when you instruct us. We can adapt the inspection and report to look at your proposals, and give advice on what they are likely to involve, any issues to consider and the further advice you may need.

Buying on the Island

Some issues come up more often here than on the mainland. Coastal exposure means wind-driven rain and salt air take a toll on roofs, render, windows and exposed timber. Some areas have a history of ground movement, particularly the Undercliff around Ventnor. The Island also has a large stock of older stone and brick properties with solid walls, where damp is often misdiagnosed and treated in the wrong way.

A survey carried out with local knowledge will take all of this into account.

Recent Home Surveys

Victorian four-storey semi-detached house in Cowes — Level 3 Home Survey, five bedroom semi-detached house, Cowes

Detached bungalow in Sandown — Level 2 Home Survey, three bedroom detached bungalow, Sandown

Period houses in Seaview — Level 2 Home Surveys, two flats, Seaview

How It Works

Request a quote - using the online form or by phone.
Instruct us - we send our terms of engagement to confirm the instruction.
Inspection - we arrange access, usually through the estate agent, and normally inspect within 5 working days of your instruction.
Report - you receive the written report, normally within 10 working days of the inspection.
Discuss - Joel will offer a follow-up call to talk through the findings and answer any questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I book a survey?

Once your offer has been accepted and before you exchange contracts. Booking early gives you time to act on the findings, for example by getting quotes for repairs or arranging further specialist reports.

Is the mortgage valuation the same as a survey?

No. A mortgage valuation is carried out for the lender to confirm the property is adequate security for the loan. It is not a report on condition and is not written for you.

Can I attend the inspection?

Access is arranged directly with the estate agent or seller, and buyers are not generally permitted to attend the survey. Joel will offer a follow-up call once you have the report, so you can go through the findings and ask any questions.

How much does a survey cost?

The fee depends on the type of survey and the size, age, value and location of the property. We provide a quote before you instruct us.