Choose the Right RICS Home Survey for Your Property
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make. A RICS-accredited home survey gives you clear, independent insight into the property’s condition—helping you avoid costly surprises and negotiate with confidence.
RICS Level 2 Home Survey
Best for: Standard, modern homes in reasonable condition. Post 1950’s.
Formerly known as a Homebuyer Report, the Level 2 Survey provides a thorough, non-invasive visual inspection of all easily accessible areas. It uses a clear "traffic light" rating system (Conditions 1, 2, and 3) to highlight urgent defects, maintenance advice, and potential legal issues.
Ideal property types: Modern flats, suburban semi-detached homes, or conventional brick-and-mortar houses built after 1950.
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
Best for: Older, larger, or heavily modified properties requiring a deep dive.
The Level 3 Building Survey is the most comprehensive inspection available. It delivers a full, detailed breakdown of the property, materials, hidden risks, and long-term maintenance requirements, along with further investigation considerations.
Ideal property types: Pre-1950’s, listed buildings, timber-frame properties, or homes planning major renovations or extensions.
Key inclusions: Everything included in a Level 2 plus further detailed analysis of components.
At-a-Glance Comparison
Features
Level 2 Survey Level 3 Survey
Inspection Type: Non-invasive visual check Non-invasive visual check
Property Age : Post-1950’s Older, historic, or altered
Traffic Light Rating: Included Included
Repair Advice: Included Included
Cost of works: Not included Not included