A Level 2 Home Survey is a detailed visual inspection of a property, designed to give you a clear understanding of its condition, construction and any significant defects or areas requiring attention before you commit to your purchase.

It is generally suited to conventional properties that appear to be in reasonable condition, such as houses, flats and bungalows built using traditional materials and methods.

The survey typically covers:

• 🏠 The condition of the property — including the main elements of the building, both inside and outside.

• 🔍 Visible defects and potential problems — identifying issues that may require repair, maintenance or further investigation.

• 🧱 Roof, walls, floors, windows and external elements — assessing their visible condition.

• 💧 Signs of damp and other common defects — where these are reasonably apparent during the inspection.

• ⚡ Services — a visual inspection of accessible services such as electricity, gas, heating and drainage, although these are not tested or assessed in the same way as a specialist installation inspection.

• 📋 A clear written report — setting out the surveyor's findings and highlighting matters that may affect the property's condition or require attention.

A Level 2 survey is non-invasive, meaning the surveyor does not normally lift floors, open up walls or carry out destructive investigations. It is based primarily on what can be seen during a visual inspection.

A Level 3 Home Survey is the most comprehensive residential survey offered under the RICS Home Survey framework. It provides an in-depth assessment of the property's construction, condition and defects, giving you a detailed understanding of the building before you proceed with your purchase.

It is particularly suitable for older, larger, altered or unusual properties, as well as buildings where significant defects, extensions or maintenance issues are apparent or suspected.

A Level 3 survey typically provides:

• 🏠 A detailed assessment of the property's condition — covering the building's main structural and non-structural elements.

• 🔍 Closer investigation of defects — providing greater detail on the nature, location and likely implications of visible defects.

• 🧱 Assessment of construction and materials — considering how the building has been constructed and how this may affect its condition.

• 🏗️ Extensions and alterations — considering visible evidence of modifications and their condition.

• 💧 Damp, timber and other defects — identifying significant issues where they can be reasonably observed.

• 🔧 Repair and maintenance considerations — helping you understand the nature and urgency of works that may be required.

• 📋 A comprehensive written report — setting out the surveyor's findings, observations and recommendations in greater detail than a Level 2 survey.

Unlike a Level 2 survey, a Level 3 inspection provides more extensive commentary and investigation of the building, although it remains a visual inspection and does not normally involve destructive or invasive opening-up works unless specifically agreed.

At Oliver George Associates, we provide independent, professional property advice to help you maintain, improve and develop your property with confidence.

Whether you're concerned about damp, cracking or structural defects, planning a loft conversion, extension or refurbishment, or need guidance on party wall matters, we're here to help. We can also assist with planning applications, Building Regulations and building control requirements, as well as providing experienced project management support to guide your project from initial concept through to completion.

From investigating property defects to delivering your next building project, we offer practical advice, technical expertise and a personal service every step of the way.