When purchasing a property, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re fully aware of its condition to avoid unexpected issues after the sale. That’s where home surveys come in, but with several different types available—Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3—it can be difficult to decide which is best for your situation.

This guide will help you understand the differences between each survey type, and how Snag It can provide professional support by conducting a Level 2 survey to ensure you’re making the best decision when buying a home.

Level 1 Survey: Condition Report

The Level 1 Condition Report is the most basic type of survey, designed to provide a snapshot of the property’s general condition. It’s ideal for newer homes or properties in apparent good condition where you don’t anticipate any major problems.

What It Covers:

• A visual inspection of the property without intrusive investigations.
• Highlights any obvious risks or urgent defects.
• Uses a simple traffic light system to show the condition of different parts of the home (green = no issues, amber = requires attention, red = serious problems).

Best For:

• Buyers purchasing relatively new, standard properties.
• Those who want a simple, cost-effective overview.

Limitations:

• It doesn’t go into depth on potential underlying issues or structural defects.
• No repair recommendations or market valuations.

Level 2: HomeBuyer Report (RICS Level 2 Survey)

The Level 2 HomeBuyer Report is a mid-range survey and one of the most popular options for buyers. This survey provides a more detailed assessment than the Level 1 report, focusing on properties that appear to be in reasonable condition but may have some issues that need attention.

What It Covers:

• A thorough visual inspection of the property, checking for damp, structural movement, roofing issues, and more.
• An assessment of major internal and external elements, including walls, ceilings, plumbing, and electrics.
• Condition ratings for different aspects of the property.
• A valuation and estimated rebuild cost (for insurance purposes).

Best For:

• Properties that are less than 100 years old.
• Homes that haven’t been extensively renovated.
• Buyers who want a more detailed understanding of the property’s condition, along with repair and maintenance recommendations.

How Snag It Can Help:

At Snag It, our expert surveyors conduct RICS Level 2 Surveys to give you a detailed report on the property’s condition. We assess visible defects, highlight any safety hazards, and recommend necessary repairs or future maintenance. This information is critical for helping you make an informed decision, and it can also provide negotiation leverage if repairs are needed.

We also include a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost, ensuring you know whether the property is priced fairly and that you can secure adequate insurance coverage.

Level 3: Building Survey

The Level 3 Building Survey is the most comprehensive type of survey, designed for older properties, those that have undergone major renovations, or properties where significant structural issues are suspected. This survey includes a detailed examination of both the internal and external elements of the property, often involving more invasive methods like checking under floorboards or in attics.

What It Covers:

• A highly detailed inspection, assessing the full structural integrity of the property.
• Identifies hidden defects and potential future issues.
• Provides in-depth recommendations for repairs and ongoing maintenance.
• Does not include a market valuation, although it provides a very detailed breakdown of repair costs.

Best For:

• Older properties (usually over 100 years old).
• Buildings that have had extensive renovations or extensions.
• Homes that show visible signs of significant structural defects.

Limitations:

• More expensive than other survey types.
• May not be necessary for standard, newer properties in good condition.

Which Survey is Right for You?

Choosing the right survey depends on the type of property you’re purchasing and your level of concern about potential defects. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

• Level 1 (Condition Report): Best for newer homes with no visible issues. It’s a quick and affordable way to get a basic overview.
• Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report): Ideal for properties in reasonable condition, providing more insight into the condition of the home and recommendations for repairs. This is the most suitable option for most buyers.
• Level 3 (Building Survey): Best for older or significantly modified properties, or if you’re concerned about hidden defects that require a detailed investigation.

Why Choose Snag It for Your Level 2 Survey?

At Snag It, we specialize in conducting RICS Level 2 Surveys, giving homebuyers like you a clear and comprehensive report on the condition of your potential new home. Here’s how we help:

1. Thorough Inspections: Our qualified surveyors conduct in-depth inspections, checking everything from the roof to the floors to give you an accurate assessment of the property.
2. Detailed Reports: You’ll receive a report with clear condition ratings, highlighting any immediate concerns or areas that need attention. This helps you avoid unexpected repair costs down the line.
3. Repair Recommendations: We don’t just point out problems—we also provide recommendations for repairs and maintenance, helping you understand what’s urgent and what can wait.
4. Market Valuation & Rebuild Costs: Our Level 2 Surveys include a market valuation and an estimate of the cost to rebuild the property, giving you a clear idea of whether you’re paying a fair price and ensuring you have adequate insurance coverage.
5. Peace of Mind: Buying a home is a huge financial decision. Our detailed surveys give you the information you need to proceed with confidence, knowing you’re fully aware of the property’s condition.