HomeBUYER'S SURVEY,  building survey, lEVEL 2, LEVEL 3?

There are essentially three levels of pre-purchase survey on the market.  The most comprehensive type is usually called a Building Survey or Level 3; the 'standard' survey is a Homebuyers Survey or Home Condition Survey, also called Level 2; and the simplest is a Condition Survey or level 1.  These can entail differing levels of inspection and reporting.  However, all are non-invasive inspections and there will always be limitations to what can be checked.  Some surveyors provide a valuation alongside a survey, or as a separate service.  Some surveyors may provide estimates of repair costs as part of a Building Survey, but most no longer do this.
It can be quite confusing deciding which level of survey you need.

  
                           
                             I make this easier, since I only offer one type of survey!   




I use a format called the Mi Home Condition Survey which has been developed by experienced building surveyors to give a clear and comprehensive picture of the property.  It allows the use of photographs and diagrams with the text to explain any issues, while still using the popular 1,2,3 traffic light system to give a clear overview.  I believe it is the best survey format on the market. 
 
I follow the RPSA policy of undertaking the most thorough inspection of the property that is possible, subject to access and safety constraints.  This means that my inspection is equivalent to that of a level 3 survey.  The depth of the report will vary depending on the needs of the property.  For a modern property, the report will be quite concise, while still saying everything which I believe will be of interest and use to a buyer.  For older properties the report will usually be significantly longer, as there is likely to be a lot more to mention and explain.  Consequently, my prices are based on both the value and the age of the property.  My reports on older properties are comparable to the detail given in most Level 3 or Building Survey reports.  However, I do not provide any estimates for repair costs.   I can provide examples of my reports on old and more modern properties on request.