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WHAT TYPE OF SURVEY DO I NEED?
For most, buying a property is the biggest financial decision they will ever make and choosing an appropriate survey for such a purchase can be daunting. We're here to help.
At Richard Russell Surveyors we like to carry out the most detailed types of surveys for our clients. We therefore provide two different types of home survey; RICS Accredited HomeBuyer Reports (Level 2) or Building Surveys (Level 3). Both of these survey types can be provided with valuations and Drone imagery, if required.
When weighing up a HomeBuyer Report vs a Building Survey, several factors should be considered, including; age of the property, size, type of construction, general condition, whether any alterations have been carried out/or are planned, as well as your own experience and individual requirements. Unsure about any of this? Not to worry, book in a free, no obligation pre-survey consultation so we can listen, learn and advise you best about your property and requirements .
In a nutshell, if your property is relatively recently constructed, conventionally built and appears to be in good condition, then guidelines recommend a HomeBuyer Level 2 Survey. Full Building Surveys are recommended if your property is old, run-down, large or has unusual features. A Full Building Survey is also appropriate if you plan to do any significant work to the property.
A Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey provides a visual, non-invasive inspection of areas that are reasonably accessible. The survey looks for serious problems that are readily evident, but does not go into detail on the structural integrity of the property.
A Level 3 Full Building Survey will provide a comprehensive assessment of the structure and condition of the property. The added detail provided in this type of survey will give you a thorough understanding of what you are buying.
Below is a table highlighting the key differences between the types of survey we offer. Please also feel free to contact us or book a free pre-survey consultation to discuss your individual requirements.
Service features
Electronic report delivered within two working days.
After survey follow up advice via telephone or Zoom.
Describes the construction and condition of the property on the date of the inspection.
Aims to identify any problems that need urgent attention or are serious.
Aims to identify things that need to be investigated further to prevent serious damage.
Aims to tell you about problems that may be dangerous.
Aims to show up potential issues and defects, before any transaction takes place.
Aims to show up potential issues and defects, before any transaction takes place.
Aims to help you decide whether you need extra advice before committing to purchase
Aims to enable you to budget for any repairs or restoration.
Aims to advise you on the amount of ongoing maintenance required in the future.
Provides a reinstatement cost to help you avoid under or over-insurance.
Available upon request
Available upon request
Provides a market valuation.
Available upon request
Available upon request
Aims to establish how the property is built, what materials are used and how these will perform in the future
Aims to describe visible defects, plus exposing potential problems posed by hidden defects.
Aims to outline the repair options and give you a repair timeline, whilst explaining the consequences of not acting.
Provides specific comments on energy efficiency.
Drone survey.
Available upon request
Available upon request
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