RICS Level 2 Home Survey (HomeBuyer Report)

You should opt for a Level 2 survey (also known as a “homebuyers survey level 2”) if the property is of conventional build, appears in reasonable condition, and hasn’t undergone major alterations. If the home is older, listed, has non-standard construction, or you plan major works, a Level 3 (“building survey”) is likely more appropriate. At Cheke & Co, we’ll help you determine which survey level suits your property and instruct a fully qualified chartered surveyor accordingly.

Yes, a RICS Level 2 Home Survey includes visual inspection for signs of damp, and may use a damp meter where accessible to flag issues such as penetrating or rising damp. However, it does not include an invasive specialist damp survey; if the survey flags potential severe damp, further specialist investigation may be recommended. At Cheke & Co we include damp-risk detection in our Level 2 reports and advise when a specialist follow-up is needed.

For standard UK homes, a RICS Level 2 Home Survey typically costs between £400 and £1,000, depending on property size, value and location. With Cheke & Co you’ll receive a clear fee estimate up-front, tailored to your property and survey requirements.

Yes, the inspection covers visible and accessible drainage elements (such as inspection chamber covers and gullies) and comments on defects like blocked or poorly functioning drains. However, the survey does not carry out specialist or night-flow testing of drains. At Cheke & Co we assess drainage as part of the inspection and advise you clearly where further specialist drain investigation may be needed.

A Level 2 survey offers a visual inspection of the electrical installation — looking at consumer unit, visible wiring, sockets and whether visible evidence of issues is present. It does not include specialist electrical testing, certification or full compliance checks. At Cheke & Co we flag any concerns with the electrics and advise whether a full electrical safety inspection is recommended.

Yes, the surveyor will inspect windows and doors, check glazing type, frame condition, signs of rot, leaks or condensation and functionality of accessible windows. As part of the Cheke & Co Level 2 survey we review windows and highlight if replacement or further specialist work might be needed.

No, a “homebuyers survey” (now generally the RICS Level 2 Home Survey) is a mid-tier inspection for standard homes in reasonable condition. A “building survey” (now generally the RICS Level 3 Home Survey) is more comprehensive and suited to older, altered or high-risk properties. At Cheke & Co we clearly explain which survey format is best suited for your property and what level of detail it offers.

A RICS Level 2 (Homebuyers) survey provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property and reports findings using a clear condition-rating system to highlight issues that may require attention. It identifies defects such as damp, timber decay or structural movement and, as part of Cheke & Co’s service, includes clear guidance on repairs, maintenance and any recommended next steps.

Yes, for most conventional homes it offers excellent value by identifying significant visible defects or maintenance tasks before you commit. It helps you negotiate or budget for repairs and gives peace of mind. With Cheke & Co our Level 2 survey is part of your informed purchasing strategy and can save unexpected costs later on.

Red flags typically include: evidence of subsidence or structural movement, serious damp or water penetration, badly deteriorated roof elements, unsafe electrical installation, blocked or failing drainage and major defects with external walls or windows. At Cheke & Co we highlight any red-rated issues clearly and advise whether you should pause or renegotiate your purchase, or commission further specialist investigation.