Home Survey Comparison Guide
The table below helps you decide which survey is most suitable for the property you're looking to purchase. It provides an overview of the benefits of each survey type we offer, giving an indication of what to expect from the survey report you'll receive.
Our pricing for surveys is property specific and is based on a combination of the size, complexity, and value of the property.
Contact us for a quotation or if you have any questions about the surveys we offer. We will be pleased to assist you.
Which survey is needed?
Properties in average or good condition
Properties in poor or neglected condition
Properties built after 1970
Properties built before 1970
Properties worth less than £1,000,000
Properties worth more than £1,000,000
Conventional build using common building materials
Complex or unique build using specialist building materials
Properties that have been substantially extended or structurally altered
What's included in each survey type?
Summary of risks to the building, people and grounds
Visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property to assess the condition of the building, services and grounds
Survey report providing a clear ‘traffic light’ condition ratings system to assess the relative importance of defects and issues
Advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance issues and explanation of the consequences of not acting
Follow up phone call to discuss the outcome of the survey report
Drainage system observed in operation by flushing WCs, running taps and showers
Corners of loose/unfitted carpets or other floor coverings are lifted to establish the condition of the floor surface beneath
Insulation within the loft lifted to sample areas, insulation type and depth measured, ceiling type and condition verified
All windows opened and inspected
Occupier’s goods moved where practicable and permissible to enable a more thorough inspection
Photographs of the property highlighting defects
Services observed in normal operation, where practicable. This includes the heating system, lighting and extractor fans
Comprehensive visual inspection and specific assessment of all accessible areas, including detailed information about the structure and fabric of the property
Description of identifiable risks of potential or hidden defects in areas not inspected / accessible
Proposal of the most probable cause(s) of defects and issues
Recommendations in respect of the priority and likely timescale for necessary work
Further information on dampness issues, condensation and timber defects
Commentary on energy related matters and advise on the appropriateness of energy improvements recommended by the EPC
Note: Recent RICS changes
Our regulating body, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), have recently changed the names of the survey types:
- A RICS Home Survey - Level 2 is equivalent to what used to be known as a RICS HomeBuyer Report.
- A RICS Home Survey - Level 3 is equivalent to what used to be known as a RICS Building Survey or a Full Structural Building Survey.