RICS Level 2 Home Survey

The RICS Home Survey - Level 2, previously known as the HomeBuyer Report, is suitable for most conventional houses and flats built from common materials and in reasonable condition.

It includes a physical inspection of the property and a report based on that inspection. The report aims to give you professional advice to help you:

make an informed decision on whether to go ahead with buying the property
take into account any repairs or replacements the property needs
consider what further advice you should take before committing to the purchase

What the Inspection Covers

Joel inspects the visible and accessible parts of the property, inside and out, including the roof space where access is safe, the grounds, boundaries and any outbuildings.

The Report

Each element of the property is given a condition rating:

Condition rating 1 No repair is currently needed. The property must be maintained in the normal way.
Condition rating 2 Defects that need repairing or replacing but are not considered to be either serious or urgent.
Condition rating 3 Defects that are serious and/or need to be repaired, replaced or investigated urgently.

The report also sets out matters for your conveyancer to check, any risks to the building, grounds or people, and any further investigations you should arrange, such as a specialist report on the electrics or drainage.

What It Does Not Cover

A Level 2 inspection does not involve moving furniture, lifting floor coverings or opening up the structure. Services such as gas, electrics and drainage are looked at visually but not tested.

If the property is older, of non-standard construction, has been substantially altered, or you plan significant works, a Level 3 Home Survey is likely to be more appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the inspection take?

Usually a few hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property.

When will I receive the report?

We can normally inspect within 5 working days of your instruction, and the report follows within 10 working days of the inspection. Joel will then offer a follow-up call to go through it with you.

Can you tell me what repairs will cost?

A Level 2 report does not include repair cost estimates. If you would like costings, a Level 3 survey includes them. Otherwise, the report will advise where you should obtain quotes before exchange.

Which areas do you cover?

The whole of the Isle of Wight. See areas we cover