The RICS level 2 survey provides a detailed overview of the property's structure, condition, and any visible defects, ensuring you have all the information needed to make informed decisions.
Whether you're buying, selling, or just want peace of mind, our RICS surveyors are here to help.
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What is a Level 2 House Survey?
A RICS Level 2 Survey, also known as a Home Buyer Report, is carried out by a RICS-qualified surveyor.
This type of survey looks at any visible defects and the surveyor will comment on the condition of the property, both internally and externally as well as any brick-built outbuildings.
The aim of a RICS Level 2 Survey is to bring to light any defects in the property, so that you, as a potential buyer, can make an informed decision about the purchase. Surveyor Local includes an independent market valuation and a reinstatement valuation with every Level 2 Survey.
How can a RICS Level 2 Survey help with your property?
It can help you to:
- Identify potential problems and serious issues with the property
- Negotiate a better property price using the valuation provided
- Easily understand issues with a ‘traffic light' rating system
- Reduce the cost of your house insurance with the reinstatement valuation provided
- Be prepared for additional costs if you continue the purchase
- Make a reasoned and informed decision as to whether to proceed, reconsider or renegotiate on the purchase
For example, if your report findings indicate damage to walls which would require repair costing £4000, it would be reasonable to reduce your offer by £4000 or pull out of the purchase altogether.
The Home Buyer survey will be carried out by an independent local expert who is a qualified RICS property surveyor.
Surveyor Local also offers next day bookings, call to enquire. Or if you'd rather get a RICS Level 2 Survey Quote, feel free to get in touch first.
What kind of property is the Level 2 Home buyer's Survey best for?
The RICS Level 2 Survey is a general survey of a property, remarking on any visible issues or defects. If the home being surveyed is of standard construction and was built after 1900, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) recommends that the RICS Level 2 Survey is the most suitable survey to order. The report is delivered in a standardised format for easy reference. You can also download our RICS level 2 survey report sample to get a better idea.
Did you know:
47% of homebuyers said a home survey uncovered problems they were not aware of from viewings alone, according to the Which? Home Movers Survey 2016
What can I expect to see in my RICS Level 2 Survey?
When you receive your Level 2 House Survey, within 3-5 days of the survey being carried out, you can expect:
- A market and reinstatement valuation of the property
- Details of major faults in accessible areas
- Insights on urgent problems which require attention
- Uncover defects such as woodworm/rot, damp, and subsidence.
- Surveyor's overall summary of property condition
- Flag any visible concerns with the utilities (electrics, plumbing, drainage etc)
What is the condition rating on a house survey?
The condition rating on a Level 2 house survey is based on the ‘traffic light' colour system. This involves 3 condition ratings to evaluate and describe the condition of the property and how urgently it needs repairing, helping you to reach an informed decision.
Commonly asked questions on RICS Level 2 Surveys
How much does a RICS level 2 survey cost?
The RICS level 2 survey costs £560 on average, based on the property value and surveyor rates.
Surveyors inspect both the interior and exterior of the property, detailing any flaws and potential risks.
The RICS level 2 survey (formerly the Homebuyer survey) offers a more detailed evaluation and is the most popular choice according to RICS.
Learn more about property valuations and RICS surveys costs in our house survey costs guide.
Source: Data based on the average cost of services offered by Surveyor Local between 2024 to 2025
How long does it take to complete a Level 2 House Survey?
Completing a survey in any property will always vary in terms of time depending on the home's size and condition. However, RICS Level 2 surveys can generally take between 2 and 4 hours for the inspection to be completed.
Who can do a level 2 survey?
A level two survey is conducted by a RICS qualified surveyor. At Surveyor Local, we pride ourselves on having a network of national surveyors, each experts in the RICS Survey Levels and properties within their local area of work. With UK wide coverage, we can provide specialised Level 2 insight on a whole range of properties. Find out now whether we currently have a Level 2 home buyers surveyor in your area.
Are RICS Level 2 Surveys worth the money?
Choosing to have a Level 2 Home Buyers survey on a property can potentially save you both costs and time on your property. These inspections work to uncover defects and any necessary repairs that need to be resolved before you purchase the home.
Can you use the information found in an RICS Survey Level 3 in negotiations?
Yes, of course. RICS Level 2 house surveys serve as a perfect opportunity for you to negotiate a reduced price on a property should there be significant defects discovered during the inspection. Alternatively, you may instead opt to have the issues addressed and resolved before your purchase.
Get in touch for your RICS level 2 survey
If you have any further questions regarding the RICS Level 2 Survey, please feel free to fill the form below or call us on .
Why not also check out our survey glossary to get a better understanding of how surveying a property works and find out even more about us.
Take a look at our reviews and join thousands of satisfied customers in having your property surveyed by us at Surveyor Local.
Our other independent surveys
Whilst RICS Level 2 Surveys are perfect for home buyers, we also work with a range of independent surveyors who specialise in other areas of the RICS Survey levels like Property Valuation Reports and RICS Level 3 surveys.
Property Valuation Report
The most basic of the three property reports, the Property Valuation Report will not include details of concerns or defects.
RICS Level 3 Survey
A more in-depth survey of a home, including all accessible areas of the property. RICS do recommend the RICS Level 3 Survey Report for older properties or those properties of non-standard construction. RICS Level 3 Surveys are tailored by the individual surveyor and can address any additional questions or concerns from the potential buyer.
