A thorough survey for
your next home purchase.
The RICS Level 2 Home Survey is the most widely used survey for conventionally built, post-1900 properties. It gives you a clear, detailed picture of the property's condition — so you can buy with confidence, negotiate where necessary, and plan for the future.
Everything covered in your
Level 2 Home Survey.
The RICS Level 2 Home Survey is a thorough visual inspection of the property carried out by our MRICS qualified surveyors. Here is exactly what is included in every report we produce.
Full visual inspection
All accessible internal and external areas of the property including roof space, outbuildings and boundary walls.
Traffic light condition ratings
Every element of the property rated 1,2 or 3 — making it easy to understand what needs urgent attention and what can wait.
Drone survey
Drone inspection of the roof, chimneys and high-level elements at no extra cost. Subject to weather, privacy and environmental conditions.
Damp & moisture testing
Electronic moisture meter readings taken throughout the property at all accessible wall surfaces, skirtings and floor levels.
Condensation readings
Condensation assessment included as standard — an important factor in understanding the long-term health of the building fabric.
EPC review & energy commentary
We review the current EPC, check for any discrepancies between the certificate and the property, and comment on energy improvement recommendations.
Photographs throughout
Numbered photographs included within each relevant section of the report so you can see exactly what we are referring to.
Environmental issues
Commentary on environmental risks including flooding, radon, contamination, Japanese knotweed and other matters affecting the property.
Legal adviser guidance
A dedicated section flagging matters your solicitor should investigate — planning, guarantees, warranties and boundary matters.
Guidance on further investigations
Where we identify elements requiring specialist attention, we advise on what further investigations should be carried out before you commit to purchase.
Unlimited de-brief calls
We are happy to talk through the report as many times as you need. No time limits, no extra charge — we stay available until you feel fully informed.
Plain English report
Written clearly for you — not for other surveyors. No jargon, no ambiguity. You will know exactly what the report is telling you.
Is a Level 2 survey right
for your property?
The Level 2 Home Survey is suitable for most conventionally built properties. Use the guide below to check whether it's right for your situation — or call us on 01932 544569 and we'll advise you personally.
✓ A good choice if...
- ✓The property was built after 1900
- ✓It is of conventional construction — brick, tile, slate
- ✓It appears to be in reasonable condition
- ✓It has not been significantly altered or extended
- ✓You want a thorough, professional inspection at an accessible price
- ✓You are a first-time buyer or buying a relatively modern home
→ Consider a Level 3 if...
- →The property was built before 1900
- →It is of non-traditional or unusual construction
- →It has been significantly altered, extended or converted
- →It appears to be in poor or deteriorating condition
- →You want cost guidance and probable causes of defects explained
- →You are planning major works or alterations
Not sure which level you need?
Call our team on 01932 544569 and we'll recommend the right survey for your specific property. There's no obligation and no charge for the advice.
What happens from
booking to report.
We make the survey process as straightforward as possible. Here is what to expect from the moment you book to the moment your report lands in your inbox.
Book your survey
Call us on 01932 544569, email us or use our online booking form. Tell us the property address and your preferred timing. We'll confirm the fee and arrange a date that works for you and the vendor.
The inspection
A member of our surveying team visits the property and carries out a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas — inside, outside, roof space and grounds. We use a drone to inspect the roof and high-level elements, and take electronic moisture readings throughout. The inspection typically takes 2–4 hours.
Your report
We produce a detailed written report with traffic light condition ratings, numbered photographs in each section, and plain English commentary on every element. The report is delivered electronically within a few working days of the inspection.
Your de-brief
Once you have read the report, we are available to talk through the findings for as long as you need — in as many calls as you require. There is no time limit and no extra charge. We want you to feel completely confident before you make any decisions.
The Surrey Surveyors difference.
Every RICS surveyor follows the same professional standards. What sets us apart is what we include as standard — and the local knowledge we bring to every inspection.
Drone survey included
We inspect roofs, chimneys and high-level elements by drone on every survey — at no extra cost.
Unlimited de-brief calls
Talk through your report as many times as you need. No time limits, no extra charge — ever.
Damp & thermal imaging
Full damp testing and condensation readings on every survey. Thermal imaging available on request.
Born & raised in Surrey
Our surveyors grew up in Surrey. We know its building stock, its ground conditions and its property market in exceptional depth.
Plain English reports
Written clearly for you with numbered photographs in every section. No jargon, no ambiguity.
Completely independent
No relationship with estate agents, lenders or vendors. Our only obligation is to you and to the accuracy of what we report.
Frequently asked questions
about the Level 2 survey.
What is a RICS Level 2 Home Survey?
The RICS Level 2 Home Survey (formerly called a Homebuyer Report) is a thorough visual inspection of a property. It provides traffic light condition ratings for every element of the building, identifies defects, gives guidance on maintenance and further investigations, and includes commentary on environmental risks and legal matters. It is produced by a MRICS qualified surveyor in accordance with RICS professional standards.
What is the difference between a Level 2 and Level 3 survey?
A Level 2 survey is suitable for conventionally built, post-1900 properties in reasonable condition. A Level 3 Building Survey is more comprehensive — it includes detailed structural analysis, probable causes of defects explained in full, guidance on average costs and when to seek further investigations, and recommendations for specialist contractors. It is recommended for older, unusual or altered properties. Compare the two surveys in detail.
Is the Level 2 survey the same as a mortgage valuation?
No — they are completely different. A mortgage valuation is carried out by your lender to confirm the property is adequate security for the loan. It is not a survey and will not tell you about defects or the condition of the property. You should always commission your own independent RICS survey when buying a home.
Do you include a drone survey?
Yes — on every survey, at no extra cost. We use a drone to inspect roofs, chimneys and other high-level elements that cannot be safely assessed from ground level. Drone use is subject to weather, privacy and environmental conditions. Where a drone cannot be used we will explain why in the report.
How long does the survey take and when will I receive my report?
The inspection typically takes 2–4 hours depending on the size and complexity of the property. Your written report is delivered electronically within a few working days of the inspection. Once you have read it, call us to talk through the findings — as many times and for as long as you need, at no extra charge.
Can I be present during the survey?
You are welcome to attend the inspection, though it is not required. Many clients find it useful to be there towards the end so the surveyor can walk them through the key findings in person before the written report is produced.
Book your Level 2 survey today.
Call us on 01932 544569, email enquiries@surreysurveyors.co.uk, or book online. We'll help you confirm the right survey and arrange a date that works for you.