What Does a Level 2 Survey Include?

A RICS Level 2 Home Survey is one of the most commonly recommended property surveys for buyers purchasing conventional residential properties built using traditional construction methods.

This survey provides an overview of the property’s condition and highlights any significant defects, maintenance issues or risks that buyers should be aware of before proceeding with the purchase.

A Level 2 survey is particularly suitable for properties built after around 1840, of traditional construction (essentially brick walls and tiled/slated roof coverings, although modern timber frame properties are suitable) that appear to be in reasonable condition and have not been significantly altered.  Alterations and extensions do not prevent a client choosing this option, it simply means they should make double sure that their legal advisers confirm any necessary Planning Permissions or Building Regulations, along with other consents, have been obtained.

What is a RICS Level 2 Home Survey?

The RICS Level 2 Home Survey is designed to provide buyers with a clear understanding of the general condition of a property. The survey is carried out by a qualified Chartered Surveyor who visually inspects accessible parts of the building to formulate their report.  Castle Surveyors Level 2 reports are quite detailed, providing clients with reports usually between 50 to 70 pages and including photographs as appropriate.

The survey highlights issues that may affect the value of the property, identifies potential risks and provides advice on necessary repairs or future maintenance.

More information about the different survey types can be found here:

RICS Property Surveys Explained

What Does a Level 2 Survey Inspect?

During the inspection a Chartered Surveyor will examine a wide range of building elements including:

• Roof coverings and chimneys
• External walls and brickwork
• Windows and external joinery
• Internal walls and ceilings
• Floors and structural movement
• Dampness and ventilation
• Timber defects such as decay
• Drainage and external areas

The survey also considers potential risks such as structural movement, dampness or defects that may require further investigation.  The simple logic applied is does a defect impact the normal use of a property our could cause defects that do, would a normal buyer need to change their offer price or renegotiate it due to the defect and/or is the defect/element resulting in a serious health and safety risk.

Condition Ratings

The RICS Level 2 Home Survey uses a traffic light style rating system to clearly identify the condition of different parts of the property.

• Condition Rating 1 – No repair currently needed
• Condition Rating 2 – Defects that require attention but are not serious
• Condition Rating 3 – Serious defects requiring urgent repair or further investigation

This system helps buyers quickly identify which issues may require attention before or after purchase.

When is a Level 2 Survey Recommended?

A Level 2 Home Survey is typically recommended for:

• Residential properties built after 1840
• Properties built using traditional construction methods
  and materials e.g. a thatched cottage with Cob walls
  or a Listed Building is generally not considered suitable for this report
• Homes that appear to be in reasonable condition, albeit if a refurbishment is
  planned, a client may choose this report to merely identify defects that may
  stop them buying it or have to negotiate the price.
• Properties that have not been heavily altered – albeit clients can choose
  a Level 2 Survey and ask their Legal Advisers to confirm consents.

Older properties, or those that have been significantly extended or altered, may require a more detailed inspection.  Though it’s worth noting, when properties are extended and/or altered, mostly the works (such as structural supports, etc..) will be built into the property so not visible without exposure works and that is not within the scope of this survey.

In those situations a Level 3 Building Survey may be more appropriate.

Learn more about RICS Level 2 and Level 3 surveys

Why Buyers Choose a Level 2 Survey

A Level 2 Home Survey helps buyers understand the condition of a property before purchase. Identifying issues early allows buyers to make informed decisions and may help with price negotiations if defects are discovered.

The survey also highlights future maintenance requirements so buyers can plan for potential repair costs.

Advice from a Chartered Surveyor

Castle Surveyors are independent RICS Chartered Surveyors providing property surveys and valuations across Dorset and Hampshire including Bournemouth, Poole, southampton, Verwood, Ringwood, Wimborne, Hedge End, Romsey, Lyndhurst, Hythe, New Milton, Highcliffe on Sea, Ferndown, Southbourne, Totton, Christchurch and the New Forest.

If you are purchasing a property and would like advice about the most appropriate type of survey, professional guidance can help ensure you obtain the right level of inspection.

Call 0800 246 1002 to discuss your survey requirements.