Why a RICS Level 3 survey is essential on a new-build

Like any other house, purchasing a new build comes with its own set of risks. Many buyers expect a flawless home without the ageing issues of older properties, but that is not always the case. While a survey is not a legal requirement on a new build, getting one may reveal problems that would otherwise only surface after you have moved in.

If you are buying a new-build home and are unsure whether you need a RICS survey, read on. We set out the options and what each type of survey covers on a new build.

Whenever you are buying a house, it is always recommended that you get a property survey, be it a RICS Level 2 or Level 3 survey. It can help you understand what is wrong with your property and how you can fix it. Typically, the best survey for a new build is a snagging survey, a survey specially designed for new builds.

A property survey on a new build gives buyers peace of mind and highlights potential issues before they become a problem after completion. The snagging survey looks for issues with workmanship rather than signs of age. The surveyor will note any work that was not completed to the agreed standard or in compliance with the relevant building regulations.

For new builds on large property developments, a survey is particularly important as it can identify issues that the developer will be required to resolve before you move in.

A snagging survey is the RICS level recommended for new builds. The snagging survey aims to discover issues known as snags. These issues can be minor, such as misaligned door handles, small damage to work surfaces and general poor cleanliness that may have been caused during the building process.

A snagging survey can also find more significant issues, such as structural problems including walls not being built to specification, ventilation ports not being installed correctly and cut corners during the building process. After the survey is complete, the surveyor will give the buyer a list of all the issues that the buyer can pass on to the developer, who will be required to fix and make any changes before the sale of the property is completed. For a broader picture of what surveyors commonly find, see our guide to the most common house survey problems.

The Level 3 survey is the most thorough of the three RICS survey levels, typically more suited to older properties or those built unusually. The chartered surveyor will take a comprehensive look at the property, noting any defects or concerns they may find. This can include the internal and external structure of the property, and all defects will be photographed for a detailed report.

For most new builds, a snagging survey will be sufficient. However, if the property is unconventionally built or you have specific concerns about the structure, a Level 3 survey provides a greater level of scrutiny. You can compare what each survey level costs on our survey cost page.

A Level 2 survey is more suited to newer properties and conventional builds. The surveyor gives an overview of the property and flags any significant issues. It is less detailed than a Level 3 but costs less and may be appropriate depending on the property.

The property valuation report is designed to give a current valuation of the property. It is useful when you are looking to sell a house but will not identify defects and is not a substitute for a proper survey on a new build.

The most effective way to protect yourself is to instruct a chartered surveyor before you exchange contracts. Any issues found will be the developer's responsibility to resolve.

At Surveyor Local, we work exclusively with RICS-accredited chartered surveyors across England and Wales. Our team can arrange a survey quickly and at a competitive price.

Call us on or get a survey quote online.