For most people, buying a property is one of the biggest, if not the single biggest, financial outlays they will make in their lifetime. This is because it involves a massive initial cost for the deposit, significant long-term debt through a mortgage. Getting a property survey before you buy a house is highly recommended because it acts as a professional "health check" for the property, protecting you from potentially costly hidden problems. A survey report will also arm you with the information needed to potentially renegotiate the purchase price if significant defects are highlighted.

An RICS Level 2 Home Survey (formerly a Homebuyer Report) is a mid-level survey suited for conventional properties that are in reasonable condition and built using standard materials. It focuses on identifying significant and urgent issues that might affect the property's value. An RICS Level 3 Building Survey (formerly a Building Survey or Structural Survey) is a much more comprehensive and detailed inspection, recommended for older, larger, or run-down properties, as well as buildings with unusual construction or those that have been significantly altered. It provides a more in-depth analysis of the structure, materials, and defects, including advice on repair options and maintenance.

An RICS Level 3 building survey provides an in-depth report on its construction, condition, and any defects or potential issues. This survey is most Suited for older, larger, or more complex properties, including those that are in poor condition, have been significantly altered, or are of unusual construction.

An RICS Level 2 Homebuyers Survey provides a concise report on its condition, highlighting significant defects and advising on urgent repairs, using an easy-to-understand "traffic light" rating system. This survey is suitable for conventional, modern properties built from common materials that are in a reasonable condition highlighting visible defects, such as damp or subsidence, using a "traffic light" rating system to clearly indicate the condition of different parts of the property.

Most surveys take a few hours on-site, and the report is usually delivered within 3–5 working days depending on the property and type of survey.

A private valuation, typically performed by an RICS Registered Valuer, provides an independent and in-depth assessment of a property's true market value. You would need one for purposes such as probate, help to buy, or shared ownership schemes, tax purposes and divorce settlements.

Yes, our surveyors are happy to explain the findings and offer guidance on the next steps, whether that’s negotiating repairs or budgeting for future maintenance.