Your home surveying service

Arranging a home survey is an important part of the home buying process, as it ensures you are aware of any potential structural issues with the property, before it's too late.

Once your offer on a house has been accepted, there’s lots to do and arrange. Including booking a RICS home buyers survey, which is an inspection carried out by a qualified surveyor. However, choosing the right survey for you can be a bit of a minefield, so we have broken down the process to make it easier to find the right one.

Continue reading to find out more about home buyers surveys, including when you need to book your survey (sooner rather than later!), and the different options available. You can also get a home survey quote today from our trusted partner The Moving Portal and see how they can help.

Which RICS home buyers survey is best for you?

Surveyor carrying out a home survey
  • RICS Level 1:

    Most suited for new builds or homes in good condition, the Level 1 home buyers survey is the most basic. Your report will include a brief overview on the condition of the property and include any legal issues concerning the property.

  • RICS Level 2:

    Most suitable for standard homes in a reasonable condition, the Level 2 home buyers survey is a visual inspection of the property which raises any structural, subsidence, damp and any other issues that could affect the property’s value. You can also request a valuation survey on top of the Level 2 (at an additional cost) where they will provide an independent view of the property’s market value.

  • RICS Level 3:

    Ideal for older, extended and structurally modified properties or those of ‘non-standard’ construction, as the Level 3 report is the most comprehensive. You will get an in-depth report that provides information on the structure and fabric of the property, as well as advice on defects, repairs, and what could happen if the issues raised aren’t addressed.

Which survey should you get?

Whether you're buying a new build property, or an old English cottage, if you’re unsure which level of home buyers survey you need, our partner, The Moving Portal, will advise which home survey may be best for your purchase.

When should you book your RICS home buyers survey?

The best time to book your survey is once you’ve had your offer accepted, you have confirmed your mortgage offer, and your lender has arranged a valuation.

Arranging your survey as early in the process as possible helps to flag potential issues that could affect your purchase, before it’s too late.

What other home surveys are there?

RICS Valuation report:

This report provides a market value for the property, based on a surveyors independent review. You will need this report if using a mortgage to buy a property, as the lender uses it to protect their investment and make sure they are not lending more than a house is worth. You may find it’s included as part of your mortgage deal, or you may have to pay for this independently.

Help to Buy valuation:

This report provides and independent valuation of the property’s current market valuation. You’ll need this report if you bought a home using the Help to Buy Equity Loan scheme, and want to sell the property, or repay the government loan. This is because the amount that needs repaying, depends on the value of the property at the time of repayment.

Snagging survey:

When you buy a new-build property, or a property off-plan, you will need a snagging survey before you move in. The snagging survey will provide a list of any issues that don’t meet the warranty standards, and minor cosmetic issues, such as cracked paint. Your developer should than fix the items on the list before you move in.

How do you choose a surveyor?

There are a few steps you should take to choose a surveyor, such as checking they are regulated by RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors), looking at their reviews and making sure that they are local to you, as well as getting a quote to factor in their costs. Get a home buyers survey quote from our trusted partner today, or find out more information about surveys in our helpful home buyers survey guide.

What is a surveyor looking for?

When conducting a house survey, a surveyor will often prioritise checking the following key areas:

  • 1

    Structural integrity

    Assess for any cracks, subsidence, or signs of movement that could indicate structural issues, ensuring the building is stable and safe.

  • 2

    Roof condition

    Inspect the condition of the roof, looking for missing tiles, leaks

  • 3

    Damp and moisture

    Identify any signs of dampness, such as stains, peeling wallpaper, or a musty smell, which can lead to costly repairs and health issues.

  • 4

    Plumbing and electrics

    Check the plumbing system for leaks, water pressure, and the condition of pipes. Review the condition of the wiring, fuse box, and outlets to ensure they meet safety standards and won’t require immediate upgrades or repairs.

  • 5

    Insulating spray foam

    Ensure the insulation has been applied properly and flag any potential concerns that might affect your mortgage eligibility or long-term maintenance costs.

The Moving Portal

About The Moving Portal

The Moving Portal are a multi award winning company and the UK’s largest independent survey provider. With 3,000 local RICS Chartered Surveyors across the country, they’re experts at what they do, and can take the stress out of surveys.

They have a dedicated team are always on hand to make sure you have all the information necessary to make the most informed decision on your new home and the bespoke online portal allows you to have 24/7 updates on the progress of your survey.

To get a live quote for your RICS Home Survey or to find out more about the surveys and service offered, visit The Moving Portal.

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