QUALITY.
WITHOUT COMPROMISE.
An RICS Home Survey is a crucial step in the homebuying process.
It provides prospective property buyers with property facts, detailed information about the condition of a property, as well as any serious property defects which enable our clients to make an informed decision about whether to purchase a property. The survey will be conducted by our MRICS-qualified Chartered Surveyor; Paul Dean.
Benefits of an RICS Home Survey:
Evaluation of the overall condition of all elements of a building to enable better-informed buying decisions.
Identification of any serious Health & Safety Risks which may be present with the Building, and Grounds.
Identification of any Risks to the Building (as a result of any building defects).
Raising any potential Legal Issues we are aware of for your legal advisors to investigate further.
Identification of any identification of any significant environmental matters which concern the property.
A Market Valuation of the property as at the date of the report, for an additional cost.
Assist buyers to negotiate a reduced price, if significant defects are found.
Assist with planning what works may be needed to a property and when they are needed, so that these works can be budgeted for.
Provide buyers with peace of mind about their purchase. Think of a Home Survey as being similar to having an MOT in place for a second hand car which you are going to buy.
Process of Conducting an RICS Home Survey:
On the Inspection day, the surveyor will thoroughly inspect all visible internal and external elements of the building fabric, as well as the grounds, garage, outbuildings etc.
The surveyor will identify any visible building defects, structural issues, as well as potential health and safety risks to occupants.
They surveyor will assess the general condition of all elements of the building in a straightforward 'traffic light' system.
The report will provide an overall assessment of the property at section B, and will provide a very detailed assessment of all items of the building's fabric at sections D, E and F, with an assessment of the Grounds and any Outbuildings at section G, and these sections will include recommendations for repairs, timescales for works and maintenance.
types of Surveys.
When it comes to buying a home, one of the crucial steps is getting a building survey to assess the condition of the property. A building survey provides valuable insights into a property's structural integrity and potential issues. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offers four types of survey; Level 1, Level 2 without a valuation, Level 2 with a valuation, and Level 3. We do not recommend a Level 1 survey as they are too basic in nature. We will explore the key differences between Level 2 and Level 3 surveys, and their significances for prospective buyers, as follows:
Roof Structure
Internal Elements including ceilings, walls, floors, fireplaces, built-in fittings (including fitted kitchens), internal joinery, & bathroom
Services i.e. an overview of electrical, gas, water, central heating, drainage (NB: We do not test these services)
Identification of any significant defects or issues that may affect the value of the property or require immediate attention
Dampness & Moisture-related issues
Subsidence or Settlement
Woodworm or other pest infestations
Health and safety risks
General advice on necessary repairs, maintenance and potential issues
A Level 2 RICS Home Survey, also known as a 'RICS Homebuyer's Report', is a popular choice. It aims to provide a concise assessment of a property's overall condition. It focuses on areas that are easily accessible and visible. It addresses the following building elements:
Chimney Stacks
Roof
Rainwater Goods
External Walls
Windows & Doors
Conservatories & Porches
External Joinery
A more in-depth evaluation of any building defects which may be present, and their likely causes
Advice on further investigations which may be needed
A summary of repairs as a useful list
Energy Efficiency - any obvious discrepancies between the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) and the subject property
Energy Matters including insulation, heating, lighting, and ventilation
A Level 3 RICS Home Survey provides a more comprehensive and detailed assessment than a Level 2 survey. It is particularly recommended for historic properties (typically pre-1850s), neglected properties, properties which have been extended & reconfigured multiple times, more complex properties (in terms of different methods of construction), or where a client is considering significantly extending/redeveloping a property. A Level 3 survey covers everything included in a Level 2 survey, but provides additional information as follows:
key differences.
Listed below are the key differences between Level 2 and 3 Surveys:
1. Scope of Inspection: While both Surveys provide valuable information, a Level 3 Survey involves a more comprehensive inspection of the property, including areas that are less accessible. This additional scrutiny can uncover hidden defects and potential problems that might not be apparent during a Level 2 Survey.
2. Level of Detail: A Level 3 Survey offers a higher level of detail regarding the property's construction, materials, potential defects, and causes of defects. This enables homebuyers to make informed decisions about the property's condition and associated costs for repairs or maintenance.
3. Property Types: Level 2 Surveys are generally suitable for most properties that are relatively modern, in reasonable condition, or made from conventional materials. Level 3 Surveys are recommended for older properties, those with historical significance, complex construction methods, multiple extensions, or those with unique structural features as discussed above.
4. Cost Considerations: Due to the enhanced scope and depth of analysis, a Level 3 Survey is more expensive than a Level 2 Survey. However, considering its comprehensive nature, it can save homebuyers from unexpected expenses in the long run.
5. Peace of Mind: Opting for a Level 3 survey ensures that homebuyers have a thorough understanding of the property's condition, making informed decisions, and avoiding potential structural or maintenance issues that could cause financial strain in the future.
In conclusion, both Level 2 and Level 3 RICS Home Surveys offer valuable insights into a property's condition. However, a Level 3 survey provides a more detailed analysis, making it particularly suitable for older or unique properties. Homebuyers should carefully consider their needs, the property type, and their budget to determine which survey best suits their requirements and offers long-term peace of mind.
RICS factsheets
