Whether you’re buying a new home, extending on or building an additional property, or resolving a property dispute, understanding property surveys is crucial.

A property survey is an essential tool that provides a detailed description of a property, its land, including its boundaries, structures, and any potential encroachments or easements.

Here, we will be sharing the importance of property surveys, the different types available, and what to expect during the process.

However, the most important to thing to check when arranging a survey for a house, is that the surveyors are qualified, regulated and RICS certified.

What is a property survey?

A property survey provides a buyer with a report outlining various details of a property and its surrounding land.

Property surveys are a detailed inspection of a piece of land or building, carried out by a professional surveyor.

The assessment typically involves the below:

• Locating structures
• Identifying potential issues, risks or hazards

Property surveys ensure compliance with local regulations, and provide important information when it comes to making financial transactions, construction projects, and land development.

In the event of a dispute, a property survey is an incredible asset whilst also informing buyers and sellers, as well as providing solid support to enable informed decisions regarding sale, purchase price and future works.

What are the different types of property survey?

This depends on who is surveying the property, however it is advised to use a survey who is regulated by RCIS.

A RICS home survey is specifically covered by RICS surveyors and members the regulatory body. A house survey or other type of property survey may not be regulated by the RICS, therefore will not be carried out to the same standard of a RICS home survey.

Which property survey do I need?

There are three types of surveys that are accredited by RICS - and therefore most recommended. These include:

Level 1 Survey

A level one home survey provides people with information about the overall condition of a property, highlighting any damages or risks.

A few things to know about a level one RICS survey:

• Affordable
• For newer properties
• A visual inspection of the property
• Provides a summary of risks

Level 2 Survey (with or without valuation)

A level 2 home survey is a little more costly however provides much more detail and is the most popular type of RICS survey.

A few things to know about a level two RICS survey (also known as the homebuyers report):

• Includes a valuation of the property (if requested)
• For newer properties
• A physical and thorough inspection of the property
• Includes a detailed report outlining all findings

Level 3 Survey

A level three home survey is the most comprehensive survey available, and provides house buyers with everything they need to know to make an informed decision about their upcoming purchase.

A few things to know about a level three RICS survey:

• For larger, older or period properties or those in poor condition
• Properties that have been heavily extended or modified
• A thorough physical inspection of the property, its land and surrounding areas
• Provides a description of the condition of each element of property and maintenance advice

What are the costs of a property survey?

The costs of a home survey will vary depending on the type of survey and whether or not the surveyor is RICS accredited.

Whilst other surveyors and home buyer reports may be more affordable in terms of upfront cost, having an unregulated, unprofessional survey may just cost you thousands of pounds in the long run if key issues are not highlighted prior to the sale.

A RICS home survey will also vary in cost depending on the survey advised, however this will be discussed during your consultation.

Get started

A property survey, particularly one regulated by RICS, is one worth having, irrespective of the age or seeming condition of a property.

With the potential to save you thousands of pounds in maintenance work and repairs, to providing peace of mind that your property is safe and secure, a RICS home survey is and can be vital.

There are various types of property survey available, but which is right for you?

Contact us today and our expert team will be in touch to discuss your property, needs and requirements. Email us on hello@btbsurveyors.com.