RICS Level ( 2 ) Survey

RICS HOMEBUYER SURVEY (LEVEL 2)

Do I need a Wimbledon HomeBuyer Report?

The RICS Home Survey (Level 2) is suited to those purchasing conventional properties which are in reasonable condition. This is a survey where a physical inspection is made of the property. It is based on the usual range of defects that occur in properties generally and within the locality. The surveyor aims to identify significant defects, and anything else that will affect the value of the property or its future saleability. No tests on the services are made other than checking the heating, lighting and running the taps. There is no check on the condition of the wiring. It includes a valuation but gives no costs for any repair or maintenance goals.

What is a Wimbledon HomeBuyer Report?

The RICS Home Survey Level 2, previously known as the RICS HomeBuyer Report (Also known as a LEVEL 2 RICS survey) is a mid-range survey, built by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This survey is designed to be used on the majority of UK properties, is written in a standard format and uses the same ‘condition ratings’ as the more detailed Building Survey. Level 2 utilises clear and jargon-free language to enable the purchaser to understand the important elements of the report and any structural defects or areas of concern.RICS Home Survey Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report) includes:

What’s included in the RICS Home Surveys?

The survey is based on a thorough inspection of the accessible areas of the property to assess their condition. The surveyor will open up the entire property and its associated outbuildings for you and investigate the services but will not lift fixed floor coverings or undertake any electrical or other tests.

The survey applies only to buildings that were conventionally constructed. The report uses a traffic light rating system to show readers the severity of any defects or issues discovered during the home survey – green/amber/red. The green category will be used for all sections of the property where no defect has been found, whilst defects that are not serious or urgent are likely to be given an amber rating. Defects of a serious nature where urgent repairs need to be carried out are given a red rating and are most likely to be visible when the proper is examined. The report will give information about any defects that may be significant but which are not necessarily in urgent need of repair using the traffic light rating system. The survey will advise on what you should do. The RICS Home Survey Level 2 will only give you comments on other parts of the property where these are significant and/or you need to be aware of them to understand another issue.

In what situations is a RICS Home Survey Level 2 suitable?

An RICS Home Survey Level 2 is ideal if the house or apartment seems to be in generally good condition but may not entirely meet current building regulations. It can also be useful for determining the severity of structural problems such as damp or subsidence. For unusual properties, such as conversions, Listed Buildings or homes that have undergone – or will undergo – significant alterations, then a comprehensive Full Building Survey would be more suitable for your needs.

Is a Valuation included in a RICS HomeBuyer Report?

The Standard Homebuyer Report does include a valuation, however, if you require a valuation for insurance reinstatement, matrimonial, probate or other purposes, please let the team know and they can provide you with a quote for a more bespoke valuation service for your Wimbledon property.

Case Study: Wimbledon, London

The Surveyors recently carried out a RICS Home Survey Level 2 (RICS HomeBuyer Report) on a five-bedroom 1930s build in Wimbledon, London. The property has had a loft conversion carried out along with a two-story extension to the front entrance and two conservatories, as this work was carried out in the late 1980s. Taking into account the size of the property and the age, they found the property to be in a generally reasonable condition. Vertical cracking to the front of the property was noted as a possible sign of structural movement, though. Solid brick elevations are prone to suffering from condensation and dampness. Japanese Knotweed starting from behind the patio and path in the rear garden – this is a problem that could be quite difficult and expensive to eradicate. This is an example of the results you may receive from a Wimbledon HomeBuyer report. Compare the RICS Home Survey Level 2 report with other RICS-approved surveys, such as the more detailed RICS Full Building Survey (Level 3) or contact our friendly team who will be happy to discuss your survey options.

How Much Does a Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey Cost?

A Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey in Wimbledon and across London typically costs between £400 and £600, depending on the size, age and value of the property. Flats and smaller houses sit at the lower end of that range, with larger family homes towards the top.

The level 2 survey cost reflects a thorough visual inspection of everything accessible – roof, walls, floors, damp readings, services and outside areas – with a clear traffic-light report highlighting defects, urgent repairs and anything that needs further investigation before you exchange.

If the property is older than about 1930, has been altered or extended, or shows signs of movement or damp, a Level 3 Building Survey (typically £600–£1,200) is usually the better investment – unsure which you need? Read our guide to choosing the right home survey.

All fees are fixed and confirmed upfront – get your HomeBuyer Survey quote in minutes.

Level 2 HomeBuyer Surveys Across London

For conventional homes and well-kept conversions, our Level 2 surveys are popular with buyers in Croydon, Willesden, Clerkenwell, Tottenham, Wood Green, Paddington, Ealing, Redbridge and across the capital – same fixed fees everywhere.

What Is a HomeBuyer Survey?

A HomeBuyer Survey – formally the RICS Home Survey Level 2 – is a mid-level inspection for conventional properties in reasonable condition. A chartered surveyor inspects everything visible and accessible, rates each element with traffic-light condition ratings, flags urgent defects and legal matters for your conveyancer, and (optionally) provides a market valuation. It sits between a basic condition report and a full Level 3 Building Survey – unsure which you need? Compare them here or see who organises the survey when buying.