Homebuyers Report

RICS Survey level 2, also known as the Homebuyers Report

The survey level 2 report is the most popular residential survey, which is suitable for most traditionally built (brick and tile) properties built after 1945, which have not been significantly extended or altered, and are found to be in a reasonable condition.

Choose this report if you need extensive information whilst buying or selling an older conventional house, flat or bungalow, built from common building materials.

The homebuyers report uses a traffic light colour coding system to rate individual elements of the property.

It highlights areas of concern, such as damp or structural movement. The level of detail enables you to judge the value of purchase in line with the cost of any future maintenance and repair works.

The report is based on a detailed survey of the property, typically including notes on timber assessment (for example, if there are signs of rot or woodworm), damp testing, insulation and drainage.

The RICS Homebuyer Report provides you with information on the condition of the property you’re thinking of buying, together with advice to your solicitor.

This report provides all the information contained in a level 1 condition report but is more extensive and detailed in both the inspection, report description and recommendations.

RICS Survey level 2 aims to provide advice on the following issues and will focus on the following:

  • Construction and general condition of the property on the date it was inspected
  • Investigations to prevent serious damage to the fabric of the building and
  • Any serious defects or issues that may be hazardous to safety and where further enquiries are needed.
  • Provide reasoned and informed information to help you decide whether to go ahead with buying the property.
  • Suggest repairs or maintenance issues the property needs
  • Research information on the location and environmental issues such as landfill sites and flooding.

Survey level 2, about the inspection and limitations

We carry out a visual inspection and inspect the following:

  • Inside and outside of the main building and all permanent outbuildings, recording the construction and significant visible defects that are evident.
  • Roofs, chimneys and other surfaces on the outside of the building from ground level and, if necessary, from neighbouring public property and with the help of binoculars.
  • If it is safe and reasonable to do so, we will enter the roof space and visually inspect the roof structure.  Inside the roof space if there is access (although we do not move or lift insulation material, stored goods or other contents).
  • Floor surfaces and underfloor spaces so far as there is safe access to, we do not force or open up the fabric of the building. This includes taking up fitted carpets, fitted floor coverings or floorboards: moving heavy furniture: removing contents of cupboards, roof spaces, etc, removing secured panels and or hatches: or undoing electrical fittings.
  • Where safe to do so inspection chambers will be lifted and visually inspected
  • The subfloor by a head and shoulder inspection where there is an available hatch or easy access point.
  • Where safe to do so inspection chambers will be lifted and visually inspected
  • Checks are made for any obvious discrepancies between the EPC and the subject property
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