The RICS Level 2 Home Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyers Survey or HomeBuyers Report, is a mid-level inspection that checks a property’s overall condition and highlights any visible issues that could affect its value or need repairs.

This survey offers more detail than a Level 1 Condition Report, which only provides a basic overview, but it’s less in-depth than a Level 3 Building Survey, which is suited for older or more complex properties. Despite the official name change, many buyers and estate agents still refer to it as a HomeBuyers Survey.

Wondering if the RICS Level 2 Home Survey is right for you? This article covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

 

What’s Included in a RICS Level 2 Home Survey?

A typical RICS Level 2 home survey covers:

• Detailed visual inspection. A thorough examination of all accessible areas, including the roof, floors, walls, windows, and doors.
• Defect identification. The survey highlights any significant problems that may affect the property’s condition and value. These include damp, timber defects, subsidence, and other structural problems.
• Traffic light rating system. This helps you understand the condition of the property. The colours of the traffic light show which areas are in good condition, which need attention, and which need to be investigated urgently.
• Repairs and maintenance guidance. Your surveyor advises on the issues they discovered and the ongoing maintenance required to prevent future repairs.
• Market valuation. An optional assessment of the current market value of the property. It helps you understand whether the agreed purchase price is acceptable given the condition of the property.
• Insurance reinstatement figure. The estimated cost of rebuilding the property is a valuable additional benefit of the report which ensures you retain adequate insurance cover for the property.

The RICS Level 2 survey is nonintrusive. It does not include testing or inspecting areas that are hidden, sealed, or inaccessible, such as behind walls or under floorboards.

When is a Level 2 Survey Suitable?

A RICS Home Survey Level 2 is ideal for standard, conventional homes that have not been significantly altered, are in reasonable condition, and were built within the last 100 years. This includes houses, flats, or bungalows constructed using common building materials and methods.

For older homes in dilapidated condition or properties that are of non-standard construction or that have been heavily extended, a Level 3 Building Survey is more appropriate. It offers a deeper investigation and more detailed reporting, especially where hidden defects or structural concerns may be present.

Level 1 Condition Reports are basic and only offer a surface-level summary. For most buyers, the small cost saving isn’t worth the lack of detail.

How Much Does a RICS Level 2 HomeBuyers Survey Cost?

The cost of a RICS level 2 report typically ranges from £400 to £1,000. The property price varies depending on several factors:

• Property size and type
• Location
• Regional variations in surveyor fees
• Whether you include optional market valuation
• Local knowledge requirements and accessibility

Remember that the cost of the RICS Level 2 Home Survey is just a few hundred pounds compared to your total purchase price. Flagging significant issues early can save you thousands.

The cost difference between a Level 1 and Level 2 survey is relatively small; however, Level 2 provides detailed information about the property’s condition. Visit our comprehensive guide on house survey costs for more pricing-related guidance.

How Long Does a Level 2 Survey Take?

The RICS Level 2 Home Survey process includes two main stages:

• On-site inspection. Your surveyor will visually inspect all accessible areas. Physical inspection usually takes 2-4 hours, depending on the property’s size and complexity.
• Report delivery. Following the site visit, you’ll receive your detailed survey report within 3-5 working days. This ensures you have the information to conclude a purchase without delays.

Having the survey results quickly helps legal teams address any issues without holding up the buying process or arrange further investigation if necessary.

Why Choose Cheke & Co for Your RICS Level 2 Survey?

At Cheke & Co, we’ve been helping homebuyers across Essex and Greater London with property surveys for decades.

When you choose us, you’ll enjoy:

• Local expertise. Our surveyors possess extensive knowledge of construction methods, common issues, and regional building practices.

Personal touch. We believe in building relationships while providing expert advice that goes beyond the standard report findings. You’ll have direct access to your surveyor. Who will speak to you before and after the inspection and be on hand to provide any further guidance.

• Professional standards. All our surveyors hold professional indemnity insurance and work to the highest RICS standards.
• Comprehensive reporting. Our reports provide clear, jargon-free explanations of any issues discovered, helping you understand the relative importance of different findings and what action may be required.

Explore our full range of residential survey services to learn about our RICS building surveys and related services.

Get in Touch for a RICS Level 2 Survey

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced property investor, getting a home survey is one of the most critical steps in your purchase journey. Our experienced team can help you determine whether a Level 2 survey is right for your property or advise on alternative survey types.

Don’t let hidden defects turn your dream home into an expensive nightmare.

Ready to get started? Call us directly at 01245 422 796 or visit our contact page.

FAQs

Is a HomeBuyers Survey the same as a RICS Level 2 Survey?

Yes. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors updated the name, but the terms both refer to Level 2 inspection.

Do I need a HomeBuyers Survey for a new-build property?

At Cheke & Co we offer new build snagging reports which are ideal for clients buying a newly built home. These identify any issues which should be addressed by the builder before occupation.

What’s the difference between Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 surveys?

• Level 1 (Condition Report) is a basic overview for newer properties in good condition.
• Level 2 (HomeBuyers Survey) provides more insight than a mortgage valuation report.
• Level 3 (Building Survey) offers extensive analysis for older properties.

Can I use the house survey report to renegotiate my offer?

If the survey uncovers issues or indicates that the property’s value is lower than expected, you can renegotiate the purchase price or request repair work before completion.