RICS Level 2 Home Survey
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey is suitable for most conventional properties in reasonable condition. It identifies significant defects, highlights repairs that may be needed and helps you understand the property’s condition before you buy.
Is a Level 2 Home Survey Right for You?
Buying a property is a significant investment, and understanding its condition before you exchange contracts can help you avoid unexpected costs later. A RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides an independent assessment of the property’s condition, helping you make informed decisions before completing your purchase.
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey is recommended for most modern homes and properties built using conventional construction methods.
It provides an independent assessment of the property’s condition, highlighting significant defects, maintenance issues and areas that may require further investigation before you commit to the purchase.
If you’re buying an older property, a listed building or a home that’s been significantly altered, we’ll explain whether a Level 3 Building Survey would be more appropriate.
What Is Included in a Level 2 Home Survey?
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides a detailed visual inspection of the property’s condition. The report highlights significant defects, identifies areas that may require repair or further investigation, and provides practical advice to help you make an informed decision before purchasing.
External Condition
We inspect the external elements of the property, including the walls, roof coverings, windows, doors and other accessible features.
Internal Condition
Internal rooms, ceilings, walls and floors are inspected to identify visible defects, signs of wear and any areas requiring attention.
Damp & Timber
We’ll identify visible signs of damp, condensation, timber decay and woodworm where present.
Roof Space
Where it is safe and accessible, we’ll inspect the roof space for visible defects and signs of deterioration.
Services
We’ll comment on the visible condition of heating, plumbing, drainage and electrical installations, although these services are not tested as part of the survey.
Repair & Maintenance Advice
Your report explains any repairs that may be required, highlights future maintenance and identifies where further specialist investigations may be appropriate.
Every report follows the standard RICS format, making it easy to understand the property’s condition and prioritise any work that may be required.
Why Have a Level 2 Home Survey?
Buying a property is one of the biggest financial commitments most people make. A survey helps you understand the condition of the property before contracts are exchanged, reducing the risk of unexpected repair costs after you move in.
It may also help you:
- identify defects that weren’t obvious during viewings
- budget for repairs and maintenance
- understand the condition of the property
- negotiate with the seller where appropriate
Many defects aren’t visible during a viewing and may only become apparent during a professional inspection.
Level 2 Home Survey or Level 3 Building Survey?
Choosing the correct survey depends on the age, construction and condition of the property. The comparison below provides a general guide.
| Level 2 Home Survey | Level 3 Building Survey |
|---|---|
| Modern properties | Older properties |
| Conventional construction | Non-standard construction |
| Good overall condition | Extensive alterations |
| Standard inspection | More detailed inspection |
Why Choose Viking Surveyors?
Choosing the right surveyor is just as important as choosing the right survey. We provide independent advice, practical reports and support before and after your inspection.
Reports Delivered Promptly
Receive your Level 2 Home Survey report within approximately 5 working days of the inspection.
RICS Chartered Surveyors
Every survey is carried out by an experienced RICS Chartered Surveyor, providing independent professional advice you can rely on.
Clear, Practical Reports
Written in plain English with clear condition ratings, practical recommendations and straightforward explanations of any significant defects.
Independent Family-Run Practice
As an independent family-run practice, we provide honest, impartial advice and a personal service focused on helping you make informed property decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The time required depends on the size, layout and condition of the property. Most inspections take between two and four hours, although larger or more complex homes may take longer.
Most inspections are carried out without the buyer present to allow the surveyor to work efficiently. If you’d like to discuss the property, we’re happy to arrange a conversation before or after the inspection.
The purpose of the survey is to provide an independent assessment of the property’s condition. While we don’t tell you whether to proceed with the purchase, the report gives you the information you need to make an informed decision based on the property’s condition.
If the survey identifies significant defects or repairs that weren’t previously known, you may choose to discuss these findings with the seller. Many buyers use the report to support price negotiations or request that repairs are carried out before the sale completes.
If significant issues are identified, your surveyor will explain their likely implications and, where appropriate, recommend further investigations by a suitably qualified specialist before you proceed with the purchase.
A Level 2 Home Survey identifies defects and explains their significance, but it doesn’t normally include repair cost estimates. If repairs are required, we may recommend obtaining quotations from appropriately qualified contractors.
No. The survey comments on the visible condition of electrical, plumbing, heating and drainage systems, but these services are not tested as part of the inspection. If any concerns are identified, further specialist testing may be recommended.
It’s usually best to arrange your survey as soon as your offer has been accepted and before contracts are exchanged. This gives you time to consider the findings and deal with any issues before you become legally committed to the purchase.
Get In Touch
If you're buying a property, arranging a valuation or you're unsure which survey is right for you, we're happy to help. Tell us a little about the property and we'll recommend the most appropriate survey before preparing your quotation.
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Areas We Cover
With offices across England, we carry out RICS Level 2 Home Surveys for buyers across a wide range of towns, cities and surrounding areas. Use the map below to find your nearest office and the locations it covers.