RICS Level 1, 2 & 3 Surveys

Purchasing a property is one of the most important financial decisions you will make. A professional survey plays a vital role in helping you understand the true condition of a building, identify potential risks, and avoid unexpected repair costs after completion. At Ashbourne Property Consultants, we provide a full range of RICS-compliant residential surveys, tailored to suit different property types, construction styles, and buyer requirements. Our surveys are independent, detailed, and written clearly, allowing you to make informed decisions with confidence.

Whether you are buying a modern apartment, a family home, or a period property, we will guide you towards the most appropriate level of survey and deliver clear, practical advice you can rely on.

Choosing the Right Survey

RICS surveys are offered at three levels, depending on the type, age, and condition of the property, as well as your future plans. If you are unsure which survey is most suitable, we are happy to advise before you instruct us.

RICS Level 1 Survey -Condition Report

Clear Overview for Modern, Well-Maintained Homes

The RICS Level 1 Survey provides a concise overview of a property’s general condition and is best suited to newer or recently refurbished properties that appear to be in good order.

It offers reassurance by identifying visible defects and highlighting areas that may require attention, without extensive technical detail. hisbsp.

What the Level 1 Survey Includes

  • Visual inspection of key building elements

  • Traffic-light condition ratings for clarity

  • Identification of urgent or significant defects

  • Advice on future maintenance considerations

Suitable For

  • New-build homes

  • Modern houses and apartments

  • Properties of conventional construction

  • Buyers seeking a straightforward condition overview

Why Choose a Level 1 Survey?

Even modern properties can suffer from defects, poor workmanship, or maintenance issues. A Level 1 Survey provides peace of mind at an accessible level, helping you proceed with confidence.

RICS Level 2 Survey -Homebuyer Report

The Most Popular Choice for Homebuyers

The RICS Level 2 Survey offers a more detailed assessment of a property’s condition and is the most commonly recommended survey for buyers.

It focuses on identifying defects that could affect the property’s value, safety, or future repair costs, while remaining accessible and clearly explained.

What the Level 2 Survey Includes

  • Thorough internal and external inspection

  • Assessment of damp, timber defects, roof condition, and movement

  • Identification of issues affecting value or requiring repair

  • Highlighting of health and safety concerns

  • Advice on legal matters for your solicitor to investigate

  • Clear explanations supported by photographs

  • Optional reinstatement cost for insurance purposes

Suitable For

  • Most houses and flats

  • Properties built after approximately 1900

  • Homes of standard construction

  • Buyers wanting a detailed but accessible report

Why Choose a Level 2 Survey?

A Level 2 Survey provides a deeper understanding of a property’s condition, helping you identify potential risks, avoid unexpected repair costs, and make an informed purchasing decision with confidence.

RICS Level 3 Survey – Building Survey

Insight for Older, Altered & Complex Properties

The RICS Level 3 Survey is the most comprehensive inspection available and provides a detailed analysis of a property’s construction and condition.

It is particularly suited to older buildings, properties in poor condition, or homes that have been significantly altered or extended.

What the Level 3 Survey Includes

  • Extensive inspection of all accessible areas

  • Detailed explanation of construction methods and materials

  • Identification of defects, their causes, and potential consequences

  • Advice on repair options, prioritisation, and future maintenance

  • Consideration of structural movement, damp, timber decay, and roofing

  • Guidance for renovation, alteration, or improvement plans

Suitable For

  • Period and historic properties

  • Buildings in poor or neglected condition

  • Homes with extensions or structural alterations

  • Non-standard construction

  • Properties you plan to renovate or develop

Why Choose a Level 3 Survey?

A Level 3 Survey offers the most comprehensive insight into a property’s structure and condition, enabling you to fully understand complex defects, plan future works, and reduce risk when buying older, altered, or high-value properties.

 

Why Choose Ashbourne?

We take the time to understand your property and your objectives, ensuring you receive advice that is accurate, relevant, and genuinely useful. Alongside:

 

  • RICS-regulated and fully independent

  • Clear, well-structured reports

  • Practical advice explained in plain English

  • Local expertise across North West London

  • Personal service from instruction to completion

Book a Survey or Speak to a Surveyor - If you would like guidance on which survey is most suitable, or wish to arrange an inspection, we would be pleased to help.