RICS Reports

Level One, Level Two, And Level Three Reports

Here at SW17, we want to make RICS reports accessible and easy to understand for homebuyers.

Condition Survey (Level One)

The Condition Survey is better suited to conventionally built, modern dwellings in satisfactory condition. It will not suit older or complex properties, or those in a poor condition.

The Report

• A report, describing the property and an assessment of the relative importance of the defects and problems.
• Describes the condition of the building, its services and the grounds.
• Highlights relevant legal issues and any obvious risks to the building, people or grounds.
• Where the surveyor is unable to reach a conclusion with reasonable confidence, a recommendation for further investigation may be necessary.

Full Building Survey (Level Three)

This survey is more extensive than the level two survey. It consists of a detailed visual inspection of the building, its services and the grounds. Concealed areas normally opened or used by the occupiers are inspected if it is safe to do so (typical examples include roof spaces and underfloor areas). Although the services are not tested, they are observed in normal operation (ie. switched on and/or operated where appropriate).

The Report

• Designed for large, older or unique properties, and for those in an obvious state of disrepair.
• Objectively describes the construction and materials used for different parts of the property.
• Describes the condition and provides an assessment of the relative importance of the defects/problems.

Additionally, it should

• Describe the identifiable risk of potential or hidden defects in areas not inspected
• Propose the most probable cause(s) of the defects based on the inspection
• Outline the likely scope of any appropriate remedial work and explain the likely consequences of non-repair
• Make general recommendations in respect of the priority and likely timescale for necessary work
• Identify and describe the legal implications of ownership in detail; and
• Give an indication of likely costs (this aspect would normally form part of the level three service, but some surveyors may choose to omit it. The terms and conditions must make this choice clear).