Why you need a RICS Level 2 Survey?

This blog was originally published on 30 June 2017 and was updated following the renaming of RICS survey products in October 2023.

Buying a property is a big deal and for many people the most expensive purchase they’ll make during their lifetime. This is why you should include a RICS surveyor as part of your hunt for a new home.

When making the decision to buy a property, how can you be sure that the price you’re offering to pay is the right one? Can you be confident that there aren’t any hidden problems waiting to be discovered once you’ve moved in?

At Readings, we’d always recommend that buyers have a RICS Level 2 Survey this was previously known as a homebuyers survey carried out – something which should never be confused with a mortgage valuation report. The latter serves to give the mortgage lender assurance on the loan, whereas a survey is designed for you the the buyer, to make you aware of the condition of the property and any maintenance and repairs that might be needed.

How To Pick The Right Survey

We all know that most houses are very different from each other, whether it’s because of their age, size, or the condition that they’re in. This is why, when it comes to a home survey, it’s not about one size fits all.

When wondering how to pick the right survey, it’s important to take a look at the condition and age of the property.

However, an old or large property, or one which you want to do a lot of building work on, should have a more detailed survey done, so that you can ensure its suitability.

The Different Types of Home Surveys

There are three levels of home surveys that can be carried out by one of our RICS Q
Surveyors, depending on the condition and age of your property. Here’s a quick summary but
you can contact us for more information:

1. RICS Level 2 – This was previously known as The RICS Home Buyer Report
   (HBR) – this is for more conventional properties which are in a reasonable condition.
   This uses a traffic light system to assess the condition of the property, risks, legal
   issues and any urgent defects. This includes the option for a market valuation, advice
   on defects which may affect the value and insurance rebuild costs.
2. RICS Level 3 – This was previously known as The RICS Building Survey –
   perfect for larger or older properties, or ones where major building work might be in
   the offing. This is the most comprehensive and most expensive home survey
   available.

Get Your Home Surveyed Today

At Readings our RICS surveyors and Sales team can find you your ideal Leicester property and report on its condition too. We are based in Leicester city centre and cover the whole of Leicestershire.

Have peace of mind in knowing that the investment you’re making is a sound one. For more information about having a property surveyed in Leicestershire, get in touch with us today.