RICS LEVEL 2 HOMEBUYER SURVEYS

A level 2 homebuyer report from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is a must for anyone looking to buy a property.

This survey provides a detailed evaluation of the building's condition, covering its external and internal aspects. As part of this assessment, the RICS will examine all significant elements – such as roofs, walls, floors, chimneys and drains – and make sure they are secure and fit for purpose.

This can offer peace of mind when making such a big decision, giving buyers greater assurance that their investment will be sound. Also, you can use this report to make well-informed decisions about repairs or maintenance projects before you decide to buy the property.

This survey identifies significant defects, readily apparent potential hazards and essential repairs and aims to reassure the client of such areas of concern using a ‘traffic light’ condition rating system. 

• 3 - Defects that are serious and/or need to be repaired, replaced or investigated urgently. 

• 2 - Defects that need repairing or replacing but are not considered to be either serious or urgent. The property must be maintained in a normal way. 

• 1 - No repair is currently needed. The property must be maintained in the normal way. 

• NI - Not inspected (see 'Important note') below. Regulation and Guidance Documents. Furthermore, the client will be advised regarding potential legal issues and give guidance on the value, including a range of appendices providing additional relevant information. 

The main objectives of a RICS Homebuyer Report is to investigate and highlight potential concerns with: 

• The structural condition of a property 
• Areas of movement, dampness anandrainage (where accessible) 
• Rainwater pipes and gutters 
• Timber defects, insulation, condensation 
• Roof structure, windows and doors 
• External walls, services (electricity, gas, drainage, water, heating) 
• Party walls 
• Mundic 
• Japanese Knotweed and other invasive species 
• Radon Gas 
• Environmental issues 
• Health and Safety 

This will make it so we can identify and advise on areas of concern that should be looked into appropriately before your purchase. 

• Any issues that may impact present value or future saleability 
• Any significant works/expenditures that may be forthcoming 
• Whether a home has been valued accurately (if requested)
• If your home is habitable and safe 

(RICS Valuations and Insurance Reinstatement Valuations available by separate request).

 When you get your report, you can have an after-survey call with Peter to discuss any things that have arisen.