Home survey FAQs
Answers to common questions about RICS home surveys and valuations — written by our RICS-qualified surveyors.
What is the difference between a RICS Level 2 and Level 3 home survey?
A RICS Level 2 survey is a mid-level inspection suited to conventional properties in reasonable condition, while a Level 3 survey is a more detailed investigation for older, larger, altered, or unusual buildings. The Level 2 reports on condition using a clear one-to-three rating system and flags defects and risks. The Level 3 (formerly called a Building Survey or “full structural survey”) goes further, explaining the cause of defects, how they are likely to progress, and the repair options. CJ Bloor provides both and will advise which is appropriate before you book.
Which survey level do I need?
Most buyers of conventional houses or flats in reasonable condition need a Level 2 survey. A Level 3 is the better choice if the property is older, has been significantly extended or altered, is built of non-standard materials, or shows visible signs of disrepair. If you are unsure, CJ Bloor will recommend the right level for your specific property at no obligation — just send us the details.
Is a "building survey" the same as a "structural survey"?
Yes — “building survey,” “full structural survey,” and “RICS Level 3 survey” all describe the same comprehensive inspection. “Structural survey” is an older term that is no longer the official RICS name but is still widely used. A RICS Level 3 Building Survey is the current equivalent.
SURVEY vs VALUATION
What is the difference between a survey and a valuation?
A survey assesses the condition of a property and its defects, whereas a valuation assesses what the property is worth. They answer different questions, and many buyers need both. CJ Bloor provides each as a separate service.
Do I need a survey if my mortgage lender already valued the property?
Yes — a mortgage valuation is not a survey and does not assess the condition of the property. A lender’s valuation is carried out solely for the lender, to confirm the property is adequate security for the loan. It will not tell you about defects, repairs, or risks. An independent RICS survey is the only way to understand the true condition of the property you are buying.
What is a RICS Red Book valuation?
A RICS Red Book valuation is a formal valuation prepared to the standards in the RICS Valuation – Global Standards (the “Red Book”). It provides an independent, professional opinion of market value that can be relied upon for purposes such as Help to Buy, probate, matrimonial matters, and shared ownership. CJ Bloor is a RICS-regulated firm and provides Red Book valuations.
Can you provide a valuation for Help to Buy?
Yes — CJ Bloor provides RICS Red Book valuations for Help to Buy redemption. These must be prepared to specific standards and presented in the format the scheme administrator requires, which our RICS-qualified surveyors are experienced in producing. Contact us with your property and scheme details for a quote.
THE PROCESS
How long does a home survey take to complete?
The on-site inspection typically takes between one and four hours depending on the size, age, and condition of the property, with Level 3 surveys taking longer than Level 2. You do not usually need to be present, though you are welcome to attend.
How quickly will I receive my report?
CJ Bloor typically delivers the completed report within five working days of the inspection. If you have a specific deadline, let us know when you enquire and we will do our best to accommodate it.
Do I need to be present during the survey?
No — you do not need to attend. CJ Bloor arranges access with the estate agent, vendor, or other access provider, and the surveyor carries out the inspection independently. You are welcome to attend if you wish.
What happens after I receive my survey report?
After delivery you can contact CJ Bloor with any questions about your report free of charge. Where needed, our office coordinates with the surveyor so you get accurate explanations and practical next steps, helping you understand which issues are urgent and how the findings may affect your decision.
What does the traffic-light rating system mean?
RICS surveys use a one-to-three condition rating: 1 means no repair is currently needed, 2 means a defect that needs attention but is not serious or urgent, and 3 means a serious defect requiring urgent repair or further investigation. This lets you see at a glance which parts of the property need attention and how urgently.
Can I see an example report before booking?
Yes — CJ Bloor provides a sample survey report alongside every quote, so you can see exactly how clearly findings and recommendations are presented before you commit. We believe in being completely transparent about the level of detail you will receive.
PRICING & BOOKING
How much does a home survey or valuation cost?
Fees depend on the size, value, type, and location of the property, so CJ Bloor provides a tailored quote rather than fixed list prices. Send us the property details through our enquiry form and you will receive a bespoke quote, along with a sample report.
How do I book a survey with CJ Bloor?
You can start by completing the enquiry form at cjbloor.co.uk/get-a-quote, or by contacting us on 0333 577 9556 or at [email protected]. We confirm the property details, recommend the appropriate survey level, provide a fixed quote, and arrange access on your behalf.
What areas does CJ Bloor cover?
CJ Bloor provides residential surveys and valuations across the North West, Yorkshire, the West Midlands, and North Wales. We work through a network of locally based RICS-qualified surveyors, so inspections are carried out by professionals familiar with property types and conditions in your area.
COMMON CONCERNS
Will the survey check for damp?
Yes — a RICS survey includes assessment of visible signs of damp and moisture. The report identifies evidence of damp, suggests likely causes, and recommends specialist investigation where the issue cannot be fully diagnosed by visual inspection alone.
Does the survey check for subsidence and Japanese knotweed?
A RICS survey reports on visible evidence of structural movement such as subsidence, and on invasive plants including Japanese knotweed, where these are apparent at the time of inspection. As surveys are non-intrusive, the report recommends specialist investigation where a serious risk is identified rather than providing a definitive diagnosis.
Can a survey be done on a flat or leasehold property?
Yes — RICS Level 2 and Level 3 surveys can be carried out on flats and leasehold properties. The inspection focuses on the individual unit and accessible common areas. For leasehold flats, the survey complements your conveyancer’s review of the lease terms, which is a separate legal matter.
What is not covered by a home survey?
A home survey is a non-intrusive visual inspection, so it does not involve lifting floors, opening up walls, testing services, or moving heavy furniture. Where the surveyor cannot fully assess something, the report flags it and recommends further investigation. Legal matters such as title and lease terms are handled by your conveyancer, not the survey.
Why use an independent surveyor rather than the estate agent's recommendation?
An independent surveyor works solely for you, with no interest in whether the sale completes. Estate agents act for the seller, so arranging your survey independently avoids any conflict of interest and gives you impartial advice on the property’s true condition.
