Level 2 Home Survey

Here at HomeCheck Surveying, our RICS Home Survey – Level 2 service includes a thorough, non-invasive inspection and a detailed report based on our findings, designed to assist you in making informed property decisions. This survey provides a professional opinion on the condition of the property, helping you make an informed decision about proceeding with a purchase, identify necessary repairs or replacements, and consider whether further specialist advice may be required before committing.

This structured approach provides clear and relevant information about the property’s condition, allowing you to better understand any significant defects observed and the potential implications for repair and maintenance.

The inspection component of our Level 2 Survey involves a detailed visual examination of both the interior and exterior of the main building, as well as permanent outbuildings where accessible. Your trained surveyor will record relevant construction details and significant visible defects observed at the time of inspection, providing a clear overview of the property’s apparent condition.

The survey is non-invasive. This means no lifting of floorboards or floor coverings, no moving of heavy furniture, and no dismantling of the building’s fabric. The inspection is carried out in accordance with the RICS Home Survey Standard, ensuring a structured and consistent approach while respecting the limitations of a visual inspection.

Formerly known as a HomeBuyer Report, the RICS Level 2 Home Survey is generally suitable for conventionally built properties in reasonable condition.

The survey will be carried out by an experienced RICS-registered surveyor with strong local knowledge of the North East. Following the inspection, you will receive a clear, structured report that includes photographs and a traffic light condition rating for each element of the property, both internally and externally.

The report identifies significant defects observed at the time of inspection and provides practical advice on repair and maintenance priorities. Where appropriate, recommendations may be made for further investigation by relevant specialists.

After the survey has been completed, we provide a follow-up phone call to explain the main findings and answer any questions you may have. This ensures you have a clear understanding of the report and its implications before deciding how to proceed.

While our survey does not substitute for legal advice, it may highlight matters that warrant further investigation by your legal adviser. This can include issues such as alterations that appear to require confirmation of approvals, or aspects of the property that may not meet current standards.

The survey may also comment on safety concerns or the possible presence of materials such as asbestos where they are visible or suspected. However, the inspection does not involve specialist testing or sampling. Where appropriate, we may recommend that further enquiries or specialist assessments are obtained to clarify specific concerns.

The Level 2 Home Survey is based on a visual inspection of the accessible parts of the property at the time of the visit. We inspect the visible elements of the building and its services without undertaking invasive testing or causing damage to the structure or fabric of the property.

This includes a visual assessment of the apparent condition of electrical installations, plumbing, heating systems and any fixed energy installations, without testing their efficiency or confirming full regulatory compliance. Where defects or concerns are identified, recommendations may be made for further investigation by appropriately qualified specialists.

We also inspect permanent outbuildings, boundary walls and fences, and shared or common areas where access is available. External areas of the property are viewed from ground level and from neighbouring public land where reasonably accessible.

Opting for our Level 2 Home Survey provides a clear, structured report prepared in accordance with the RICS Home Survey Standard, helping you understand the condition of the property before committing to purchase.

If you are buying a property in the North East and would like professional, independent advice, we would be pleased to assist. To discuss your property or request a quotation, please contact us today.