RICS Home Survey Documentation

As published 4 February 2021 by RICS

An RICS Home Survey helps identify defects and risks before you commit to buying or selling a property. Carried out by an RICS-qualified surveyor, the reports are reliable, cost-effective, and backed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

As published 1 February 2021 by RICS

The RICS Home Survey Level 2 (survey only) includes a property inspection and written report, providing professional advice to help you decide whether to proceed, assess required repairs, and consider any further specialist advice. Any additional services are provided under a separate agreement.

As published 1 February 2021 by RICS

The RICS Home Survey Level 2 (survey and valuation) includes a property inspection, a written report, and a valuation. It provides clear professional advice to help you decide whether to proceed, what price to pay, and whether repairs or further specialist advice should be considered. Any additional services are provided under separate agreement.

As published 27 August 2024 by RICS

The RICS Home Survey Level 3 provides a detailed inspection and report, offering in-depth advice on condition, defects, risks, and likely causes. Where agreed, it may also include repair cost estimates and timescales to support informed purchase or maintenance decisions.

As published 1 December 2020 by RICS

This advice applies to both current and prospective leasehold owners. Before purchasing, it is important to review the lease terms carefully. While legal advisers check the lease, the surveyor may identify property features with legal implications, which are noted in Section H of the report and should be shared with your legal adviser. Unless stated otherwise, standard lease terms and a nominal ground rent are assumed.

As published 1 December 2020 by RICS

All homes require ongoing maintenance. This general advice should be read alongside your report and is not property-specific. If you have concerns, you should seek advice from an RICS-qualified surveyor.

As published 1 February 2021 by RICS

Now that you have an overview of any works required, we recommend obtaining and keeping records of quotations received, so costs can be checked against any estimates provided.

As per the RICS website, July 2025

When selling your home, the buyer’s lender or surveyor may inspect the property and identify issues that were not apparent when the price was agreed. These findings can influence the buyer’s decision to proceed or may lead to a request to renegotiate the purchase price or terms.