Which survey should I have?
When you are buying a house, there are so many things to think about and now you have a choice of surveys!!!
Read my quick guide to decide which survey is right for you.
The RICS Condition Report – survey level one
Choose this report if you’re buying or selling a conventional house, flat or bungalow built from common building materials and in reasonable condition. It focuses purely on the condition of the property by setting out the following:
- clear ‘traffic light’ ratings of the condition of different parts of the building, services, garage and outbuildings, showing problems that may require varying degrees of attention;
- a summary of the risks to the condition of the building; and
- advice on replacement parts guarantees, planning and control matters for your legal advisers.
An RICS Condition Report is straightforward and does not include a valuation, but your surveyor may be able to provide this as a separate extra service.
Here is a detailed ‘Description of the RICS Condition Report Service’ leaflet.
The RICS HomeBuyer Report (Survey) – survey level two
Choose this report if you need more extensive information whilst buying or selling a conventional house, flat or bungalow, built from common building materials and in reasonable condition. It costs more than the Condition Report but includes:
- all of the features in the Condition Report;
- a list of problems that the surveyor considers may affect the property;
- advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance;
- issues that need to be investigated to prevent serious damage or dangerous conditions;
- legal issues that need to be addressed before completing your purchase; and
- information on location, local environment and the recorded energy efficiency (where available).