
RICS Level 2 Home Survey
Clear Advice Before You Commit To Buying
Clear, honest advice to help you buy with confidence — from independent RICS-regulated surveyors focused on quality, not volume reports.
Our RICS Level 2 Home Survey is ideal for conventional properties in reasonable condition. It provides a clear overview of the property's condition, highlighting defects, risks and maintenance issues — helping you make a confident purchase decision.
You’ll receive practical, jargon-free advice from a RICS-regulated surveyor, with condition ratings that clearly show what needs attention now and in the future.
What’s Included:
• Inspection of accessible interior, exterior and permanent outbuildings
• Clear traffic-light condition ratings (1–3)
• Identification of defects affecting value or future costs
• Risks to the building, occupants and grounds
• Energy efficiency commentary and insulation overview
• Legal matters your solicitor should check
• Optional drone or pole camera roof inspection
• Environmental and location risk checks included
Although non-intrusive, this survey provides reliable guidance on condition, repair priorities and potential risks.
Is a Level 2 Survey Right for Your Property?
A Level 2 Home Survey suits conventional properties built after approximately 1900 that appear to be in reasonable condition - including modern houses, purpose-built flats and standard terraced or semi-detached homes across Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Southampton.
If you are buying an older property, one that has been extended or altered, or a home with known defects, a Level 3 Building Survey is likely to be more appropriate.
What Happens After Your Survey?
We typically arrange inspections within 5 to 7 working days and deliver your report shortly after. Every report is written in plain English with clear condition ratings, so you know exactly what needs attention — and what you may be able to negotiate on.
Every property is different. Get in touch for a personalised quote tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a RICS Level 2 Home Survey?
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey is a professional inspection of a property's condition carried out by a RICS-regulated surveyor. It uses a traffic-light condition rating system (ratings 1, 2 and 3) to identify defects, risks and maintenance issues, giving you a clear picture of the property before you commit to buying.
What properties is a Level 2 survey suitable for?
A Level 2 survey suits standard, conventional properties built after approximately 1900 that appear to be in reasonable condition. This includes modern houses, purpose-built flats and typical terraced or semi-detached homes. For older, extended or non-standard properties, a Level 3 Building Survey is more appropriate.
How much does a HomeBuyer Survey cost in Bournemouth or Southampton?
Our fees are fixed and transparent with no hidden costs. A RICS Level 2 Home Survey starts from £430, with the final fee based on the property's purchase price or market value. Every survey includes a free desktop research package and, where suitable, a free drone roof inspection. Contact us for a personalised quote.
How long does a Level 2 survey take?
A typical Level 2 inspection takes 2 to 3 hours depending on the size of the property. Your written report is usually delivered within 3 working days of the inspection.
Can you survey a flat or leasehold property?
Yes. For most flats a Level 2 Home Survey is the proportionate choice, because many structural and external elements are communal and not fully accessible. We assess the flat's condition, flag significant defects and advise on legal and leasehold matters your solicitor should check.
Is a survey worth it on a new build?
Yes. New builds often have snagging issues such as poor finishing, incomplete work or installation faults. An independent Level 2 survey gives you a clear list to raise before completion, while the developer is still responsible for fixing them.
What is the difference between a Level 2 and Level 3 survey?
A Level 2 Home Survey gives a clear overview of a property's condition and suits standard, well-maintained properties. A Level 3 Building Survey is more detailed, covering the causes of defects, repair options and likely costs, and is recommended for older or more complex properties.
