What are the different types of survey?

1. Basic Survey (sometimes known as Level 1)  

This isn't in fact a survey but rather a condition report prepared after a brief inspection of the property – often solely for the benefit of the mortgage lender. They are carried out by a RICS Valuation Surveyor appointed by the lender (i.e. a bank or building society) to establish whether the property provides adequate security for the amount you want to borrow. It  should not be regarded as a full survey or as a substitute for a more detailed survey.

Most lenders charge valuation fees on a scale depending on the value of the property. The report is basic, and all lenders disclaim any responsibility for the condition of the property. You have no comeback against the surveyor for any defects or problems that are not picked up and you may not even see a copy of the report.

2. Homebuyers Report or Survey (Level 2)  

A Homebuyers Report is intended to inform you, the buyer, on the soundness or otherwise of the property, and whether it is a suitable purchase at the price agreed. It is more expensive and extensive than the basic valuation.

Using a format approved by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), this survey covers all accessible parts of the property, but is less comprehensive than a Building Survey and the final report is shorter and more concise. The report specifies major defects and includes a roof inspection where possible, but does not detail remedial works.

Advice can be given on specific items if required, and if further specialist investigation is thought necessary this will be stated in the report. The report may also offer you some limited recourse should the surveyor (acting on your behalf, rather than the lender’s), be negligent.

Homebuyer’s Reports are most suitable for houses built using regular construction methods during the last 80 years, and up to approximately 2,000 square feet / 185 square meters.

3. Building Survey (Level 3)  

This is the most detailed type of survey, sometimes known as a full structural survey, and is usually required when a full assessment of the property is needed. It is also the most expensive and is highly advisable for older properties (pre-1900) or large or unusual buildings.

Surveys of this kind can take many hours to complete and cover all aspects of the property in greater depth than the Level 2 Report. It can also detail remedial works required. You have right of recourse to the Surveyor in the event a defect with the property is subsequently found which would have been there when the original survey was done – for example a woodworm infestation or rising damp.

With any level of survey, if there are potential or actual defects found, the surveyor may suggest you obtain additional specialist reports.

Mortgage lenders tend to work with panels of approved surveyors and will generally want to instruct their nominated surveyor for the basic valuation that they require. If you would like a homebuyer’s report, many lenders will let you request one via them – otherwise, you are free to instruct a more detailed survey yourself.

Whilst the cost of a more detailed survey can sometimes feel like a large outlay at a time when you have lots of other costs to cover, it's worth remembering that finding out about potential issues can mean you avoid having to carry out potentially expensive remedial work after you've bought the property.