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— Survey Selector Tool

Do I Need a Level 2 or Level 3 Survey?

Answer a few quick questions about the property and we'll tell you which survey level is right for you — and why.

Question 1 of 8
Question 1 of 8
How old is the property?
Older properties are more likely to have complex defects requiring detailed investigation.
Question 2 of 8
What type of construction is the property?
Non-standard construction types need more detailed investigation to assess properly.
Question 3 of 8
What was the visible condition of the property at viewing?
Properties showing obvious signs of wear, damp, or disrepair warrant more detailed investigation.
Question 4 of 8
Has the property been extended or significantly altered?
Extensions and alterations can introduce structural risk and complicate the assessment.
Question 5 of 8
What type of property is it?
Detached and larger properties have more elements to inspect.
Question 6 of 8
What are your plans for the property?
If you're planning major works, a Level 3 helps you understand the full structural picture.
Question 7 of 8
What is the approximate purchase price?
Higher value properties carry more financial risk — a more detailed survey becomes better value.
Question 8 of 8
Is the property leasehold?
Leasehold properties have additional considerations around shared elements and building condition.

Based on your answers

    Get a Quote → View Our Services
    What's includedLevel 2Level 3
    Visual inspection of all accessible areas✓✓
    Condition ratings (1, 2, 3)✓✓
    Roof, walls, floors & drainage checked✓✓
    Damp and timber assessment✓✓
    In-depth structural analysis✗✓
    Describes construction methods✗✓
    Identifies hidden / urgent defectsPartial✓
    Repair recommendations & guidanceBriefFull
    Suitable for older / non-standard properties✗✓
    Optional RICS valuation add-on✓✓

    Both the RICS Level 2 and Level 3 Home Survey are professional inspections carried out by a qualified surveyor. The difference is depth — and choosing the right level for your property could be one of the most important decisions you make before exchange.

    01

    What Is a Level 2 Home Survey?

    RICS Home Survey — Level 2

    The Homebuyer's Survey

    A thorough visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. The surveyor rates each element with a condition rating of 1, 2, or 3 — where 3 requires urgent attention.

    It covers the roof, walls, floors, windows, damp, drainage, and services.

    • Modern or well-maintained properties
    • Standard brick or block construction
    • Properties built after 1950 in reasonable condition
    • Buyers wanting a clear condition overview
    RICS Home Survey — Level 3

    The Building Survey

    The most comprehensive survey available. It provides a detailed analysis of the construction, structure, and condition — including an assessment of defects and their likely causes.

    Includes advice on repair options, maintenance priorities, and specialist investigation recommendations.

    • Older or pre-1919 properties
    • Non-standard construction types
    • Properties with visible defects
    • Extended, altered, or converted properties
    • Higher value or higher risk purchases
    02

    When Should You Always Choose Level 3?

    There are certain situations where a Level 3 Building Survey is always the right choice:

    • The property was built before 1919
    • It has non-standard construction — concrete frame, timber frame, prefab, thatched, or listed
    • There are visible cracks, damp, or structural movement
    • The property has been substantially extended or altered
    • There is a history of subsidence, flooding, or underpinning
    • You are planning major renovation or structural works
    • The purchase price is high and you want full peace of mind
    CJ Bloor's Advice

    When in doubt, choose Level 3. The additional cost of upgrading is modest compared to the value of the information it provides.

    03

    Can I Add a Valuation to Either Survey?

    Yes. CJ Bloor can provide a RICS formal valuation alongside either survey level. A combined survey and valuation gives you a complete picture: what the property is worth, and what condition it is in — carried out at the same inspection visit.

    Not Sure? Talk to Us First.

    Our surveyors are happy to advise which level of survey is right for your specific property. No obligation.

    📞 0333 577 9556 ✉️ [email protected]
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    CJ Bloor Property Consultants Limited is a member of RICS. All surveys are carried out in accordance with the RICS Home Survey Standard.