Understand the four different types of UK building survey and which one you’ll need. We answer all the most frequently asked questions on the subject, from What is a Building Survey? right through to prices and problems. Find the right building survey for you and take your property purchase forwards.
Building Survey FAQs
What is a Building Survey?
A Building Survey was previously known as a Structural Survey and is also known as a Level 3 Survey. It is the most in-depth type of inspection available for residential buildings. Building Surveys are carried out by Chartered Surveyors and provide a detailed view of the condition a building is in.
What is included in a building survey?
A Building Survey involves an in-depth assessment of all structural elements of your property. The Surveyor will look at the walls, roof, chimney, floors, ceilings, doors and windows.
They will give you details on how your property was built and its condition. You should also receive notes on any issues and how you might be able to remedy problems they have detected.
Should I have a full structural survey?
It’s a good idea to have a full structural survey (Building Survey) if you are dealing with a building that is in a poor state of repair. Larger properties, or properties over 50 years old, should also be fully surveyed.
You should also order a Building Survey if a property has seen major or unusual alterations. If you are planning any major work, it’s also a good idea to get a Building Survey so that you know exactly what you’re dealing with.
How much does a RICS Building Survey cost?
A RICS Building Survey (Level Three) will usually cost from £600-1,500. The price will depend on the size of the property and where it is located.
How much does a RICS valuation survey cost?
A RICS Homebuyer Report – a Level Two survey – can include a valuation of the property and will cost from £400-£1,000. This is a less in-depth survey than a full Building Survey (Level 3).
What does a RICS Building Survey cover?
A RICS Building Survey covers walls, roof, chimney, floors, ceilings, doors and windows. It is an in-depth look at the condition of the property and will include advice on any problem areas.
Do surveyors check boilers?
A Surveyor is unlikely to look at a boiler in any detail. They may note down its type and age but are more focused on the structure of the property.
What are the four types of surveys?
Level One: RICS Condition Report
A Condition Report is the most basic form of survey. This will cover the building’s general condition and highlight any risks or legal issues. More urgent defects will show up on this survey.
This type of survey is ideal if you’re looking at a modern property will no alterations. The report will use a simple green/amber/red traffic light system to indicate the condition of various parts of the building.
Level Two: RICS Homebuyer Report
The Homebuyer Report is the most common type of survey for properties that are in a reasonable state of repair. This ‘Level Two’ report is more in-depth than the Level One report and includes any issues that could affect the property’s value.
The Level Two Homebuyer Report is ‘non-intrusive’, which means that the Surveyor will not move furniture or look under floorboards. The report can also include a valuation of the property from the Surveyor’s perspective.
Level Two: SAVA Home Condition Survey
The SAVA Home Condition Survey is similar to the Level Two Homebuyer Report but does not include a valuation. The SAVA report include photos of any issues the Surveyor has found and highlights any legal issues your Conveyor may need to look into for you.
Level Three: RICS Building Survey
The Level Three survey – also known as a Structural Survey – is the most thorough survey available. For this survey the Surveyor will go beyond a surface-level assessment and will look under floorboards, in the attic and will move furniture.
This type of survey is recommended if you are looking at a property that is over 50 years old, has unusual modifications or is in a poor state of repair. It is also a good idea to have a Level Three survey done if you are intending to remodel the property in a significant way.
How do surveyors check for damp?
A Surveyor will check for damp using a meter that measures the electrical conductance of whatever material they are testing. This device will show the Surveyor how much water is found in the wall, plaster or other material being tested.
What to do if survey shows problems?
If your property survey shows problems you can ask your Surveyor to explain the report in detail and give their advice on the problems found. You may want to seek expert advice from a specialist on certain problems.
Find out how much it will cost to have those problems fixed. Once you have all the knowledge you feel you need, it is up to you whether you proceed with the sale or take your concerns to the seller to negotiate on price.
Are house surveys worth it?
A house survey is worth having for any property you are considering to buy. It will reveal any potentially expensive problems with the property, provide you with advice on fixing them and give you peace of mind that you are paying the right price.
HomeViews provides verified resident reviews of the UK’s housing developments. We’re working with developers, landlords and the Government to recognise high performers and help to improve standards in the built environment.
