Residential Property Surveys
in Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Suffolk
A home is the most expensive purchase most people ever make. As an owner, you will benefit from expert advice on the condition of your property from an RICS Home Survey - whether you plan to live in it, rent it, or sell it.
By commissioning an independent RICS Building Surveyor you can feel assured that the service you receive is reliable and impartial. We carry out an in-depth visual inspection of the property and will provide an expert account of the property's condition. We will highlight any problems in a clear and easy-to-understand 'traffic light' rating.
Different homes require different types of home survey. The information below explains which survey we recommend for different property types. You can find further information on choosing between the types of RICS home survey, the respective scopes of the various surveys, and our standard terms of engagement here.
It is usually advisable to carry out a home services report to check the safety and condition of the electric, gas, plumbing and heating if no recent certificates are available. We partner with one of the UK's leading service report providers to make sure you have all the information necessary to make an accurate and informed decision before you commit to purchase.
We are always pleased to discuss your requirements and will be able to advise you further if you require.
Home Survey Level 1 - Condition Report
The Home Survey Level 1 ("Condition Report") describes the condition of the property, identifies any risks and potential legal issues and highlights any urgent defects. It uses simple ‘traffic light’ ratings to clearly identify the condition of the key elements of the property.
The Home Survey Level 1 Report is the lowest priced of the surveys and is aimed at conventional properties and newer homes, perhaps up to five years old or older but known to be in generally good condition.
Home Survey Level 2 - Homebuyer Report
The Home Survey Level 2 Report (sometimes called a 'HomeBuyers Survey') gives you more detailed information than a Level 1 Report, and can include a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost if you require one.
It includes all the features of the Level 1 Report, together with further advice on defects that may affect the property and ongoing maintenance advice.
The Home Survey Level 2 Report is a mid-priced report aimed at conventional properties in reasonable condition, perhaps from five years old to inter-war properties.
Home Survey Level 3 - Building Survey
The Home Survey Level 3 Report (sometimes called a 'full structural survey', 'structural survey' or a 'full building survey') is the most comprehensive report. It is essential for larger or older properties, or if you are planning major works.
The Level 3 Report gives you an in-depth analysis of the property's build-up and condition, and will include further advice on defects, repairs and maintenance.
A Home Survey Level 3 Report is usually recommended for older properties (typically Victorian or older), listed or historic buildings, buildings which have been altered, are in below-average condition, or where a specific concern is known.
Snagging Surveys and Snagging Reports
Snagging surveys and snagging reports are carried out on new-build properties before the purchase is completed.
Snagging schedules and reports are essentially a schedule of all building works and items that must be finished or corrected by the developer before the house is properly fit for occupation, and should be made a condition of the sale.
Snagging Reports are different to Home Surveys, as they are mainly intended to identify and help rectify any workmanship, quality or material defects. They cost roughly the same as a Level 1 Condition Report, and many clients opt to have both surveys carried out for complete peace of mind on their new property.
Not sure which type of survey to choose?
Please contact us today for free and impartial advice. We will be pleased to look at your property details and discuss the most appropriate types of survey with you.
Our RICS surveyors are highly-trained and are all members of the world's leading property regulatory body, ensuring your survey will be carried out to the highest standard and we will be able to advise and guide you throughout.
Call us today for a free, no-obligation discussion and quote.
