Homebuyer Report vs Building Survey | RICS Level 2 vs RICS Level 3 

As a prospective homebuyer, selecting the correct type of survey to determine the condition of the property can be a critical step in the home-buying process, often confusing due to the myriad of options available. This article aims to clarify the main difference between a Homebuyer Report vs Building Survey, two of the most popular choices regarding property surveys.

Homebuyers Report - RICS Level 2

A Homebuyer Report, issued by an accredited RICS (Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors) surveyor, is a detailed visual inspection of a property designed to uncover any hidden issues that might affect your decision to purchase the property. The surveyor meticulously assesses the readily accessible areas of the property and identifies any immediate or potential defects that could incur repair costs in the future. This survey level is typically suitable for modern or older properties that appear to be in a reasonable condition. Alongside identifying defects, the Homebuyer Report can include a market and reinstatement valuation (at an additional cost), providing an accurate estimate of the property's value in the current property market.

The RICS Level 2 Homebuyers Report is a popular choice amongst modern home buyers, designed to provide an easy-to-read, detailed report on the condition of a property. Offered by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), this home survey occupies a midway level, offering more detail than a Level 1 Condition Report but less than a Level 3 Building Survey. This report utilises a ‘traffic light system’ to present its findings, making it straightforward to understand the surveyor’s assessment of the property's condition, including any visible defects that may affect the home's value.

Full Building Survey - RICS Level 3 (Full Structural Survey)

The RICS Level 3 Building Survey is a comprehensive survey designed to analyse a property's condition in more detail. This survey level is recommended for older properties or those made with unusual materials, where a thorough inspection is necessary to understand the property's structural integrity. The surveyor will highlight any significant issues and advise on potential repairs and ongoing maintenance. It's important to note that a building survey will cost more than a Homebuyer's Report due to its more detailed and time-consuming nature.

Although the Level 3 Building Survey provides much more detail, it is crucial to ascertain which type of survey is suitable for the property you want to buy, which can depend on several factors, such as the age and condition of the property. If you're purchasing a relatively modern home or a conventional bungalow that appears to be in good condition, a Level 2 Homebuyer's Report could suffice. However, for older buildings or those constructed with non-standard materials, a Level 3 Building Survey can provide the level of scrutiny required.

Homebuyers Reports vs Building Survey

By understanding the main differences between a Homebuyer Report and a Building Survey, you can make an informed decision that suits your specific needs and offers peace of mind about the state of your potential new home. As the adage goes, 'knowledge is power - knowing what to expect from each survey type can protect your investment and set the stage for a successful home-buying journey.

We understand that buying a property is a significant investment, and you need reassurance that it is a good investment. An independent and comprehensive survey by an RICS Surveyor could save you thousands of pounds in future repair bills or allow you to negotiate a realistic purchase price. But how to choose which one is suitable for your requirements?

HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors

Recent Reviews

HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
Excellent
Harding Chartered Surveyors
Based on 147 reviews
HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
Amanda J.
Jessica Togood was excellent. A friendly and efficient service.
HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
Laraine G.
Incredible service, fast, efficient, knowledgeable and helpful. Highly recommend.
HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
Stefan B
Very responsive and professional. Gave us a rendezvous quickly, bang on time including with subsequent report. Cost seemed reasonable. Happy to have chosen Harding.
HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
john H.
Thanks so much to all the team at Harding! They were extremely helpful in arranging the survey for us at very short notice.

Scott did the survey on the day and he was incredibly thorough - it's given us great peace of mind for our house move. The report he gave was detailed, well laid out with excellent photographs of every aspect of the house and surrounds. He also took the time to call and walk me through his preliminary findings, which I really appreciated.

Thanks again!
HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
Bukhosi
Guy was helpful in explaining the survey and findings over the phone.
HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
Alan F.
A very efficient and professional. Communication was excellent and the whole process from booking to the report was around 3 weeks. Good value for money. I would recommend without hesitation.
HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
Amelia M.
Harding Chartered Surveyors were really quick and helpful throughout this process. Our Level 2 survey was completed quickly and we received an extremely detailed report the next day. Would absolutely recommend using their services!
HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors

Below is a diagram to help you find out which one is right for you, please contact us if you need any assistance.

HomeBuyer Report

£700 + VAT

Starting price



  • SUITABLE FOR:

    A conventional property in reasonable condition built from 1900 onwards, constructed using traditional methods such as brickwork, which has not been substantially altered or extended.
    E.g. a 2 bedroom purpose built flat in good condition.

  • A visual inspection of all accessible areas to assess the condition of the building.

  • Identifies issues that require repair or further investigation

  • Free expert verbal advice and after-care following the survey.

  • A less detailed inspection focussing on the more significant and urgent issues.

  • Uses a traffic light system to rate the condition of elements.

  • Does not include photographs.

  • Does not include technical repair advice or costings

  • Additional market valuation report available

  • Additional Insurance reinstatement cost report available

Building Survey

£800 + VAT

Starting price



  • SUITABLE FOR:
    Older period properties
    Large properties
    Substantially extended or altered properties
    Non-traditional construction
    In poor condition and dis-repair.
    E.g. an extended large Victorian house.

  • A visual inspection of all accessible areas to assess the condition of the building.

  • Identifies issues that require repair or further investigation.

  • Free expert verbal advice and after-care following the survey.

  • A more detailed inspection using specialist ‘Pole Cam’ cameras to difficult areas.

  • Highlights repairs and improvements that need to be undertaken.

  • Includes detailed photographs.

  • Provides technical repair advice and approximate costings.

  • Additional market valuation report available

  • Additional Insurance reinstatement cost report available

HomeBuyer vs Building Survey, Harding Chartered Surveyors
Harding Chartered Surveyors is an independent firm of RICS chartered surveyors. We understand that purchasing a home is one of the most important things you will ever do and, as such, take pride in guiding you through the process by offering a range of services.

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