Munday and Cramer

Understanding the Different Types of Surveys


Conducting the right domestic building survey is crucial for ensuring you receive the right information and make an informed decision about what you are trying to achieve. Whether that’s buying a property, carrying out a repair, or general maintenance. This report is going to look at two different types of surveys and how they differ.

Home Survey

home survey is an in-depth visual inspection of a property, carried out by an RICS Chartered Surveyor, during the purchase or upgrading process. They assess the condition of a property and highlight any current or potential defects that may occur. They help purchasers make an informed investment and provide peace of mind that there are no hidden problems. A home buyer survey is used to diagnose and understand known or suspected problems when looking to buy a home.
Level 2 Home Survey
You can find additional specific information about the property in a Level 2 Home Survey report, along with suggestions for potential future upkeep or repairs.
What is covered in a Level 2 Home Survey?
A level 2 home survey is ideal for conventional properties that are in reasonable condition. This inspection will cover the inside and outside of the main building and any permanent outbuildings. The surveyor will take note of the significant visible defects that are identified. A level 2 home survey will help you make an informed decision about whether to go ahead with buying the property.
Who is a level 2 home survey for?
All the aspects of the Level 1 Home Survey are included in the Level 2 Home Survey, along with a more thorough roof space and drainage chamber check. It offers guidance on any defects in the property as well as necessary repairs. If you would need more detailed information when purchasing or selling a typical house, flat, or bungalow that is in reasonable condition, then this is the one for you.

Level 3 Home Survey
What is covered in a Level 3 home survey?
The most thorough survey report is a RICS Level 3 Home Survey. It gives you an in-depth study of the state of the property and offers suggestions for fixing flaws, maintenance, and repairs.

Who is a level 3 home survey for?

If you’re planning significant renovations, dealing with a large, older, or dilapidated house, or managing a unique or altered building, go with a RICS Level 3 Home Survey.

Specific Defect Survey

This can be applied to homes that have a known or suspected problem (such as dampness, subsidence, or roofing issues) that needs to be looked at. Because it concentrates on a particular topic, it can offer a thorough examination of the issue along with suggested solutions.

What is covered in a specific defect survey?
The survey will evaluate whether the building’s structure has any problems, what has to be done to fix any problems, and how much it will cost.
A specific defect survey will provide guidance on what steps to take to address the issues and how to fix the damages. It will also recommend any additional research that might be necessary and provide an estimate of the cost of the repairs.
  • Structural movement
  • Timber decays and rots.
  • Damp
  • Roofing defects
  • Poor construction
  • Subsidence
Who is the specific defect survey for?
A specific defect survey may be needed when a basic survey identifies an issue but further investigation is required to determine its relevance. If you know your domestic property has one specific issue, but the rest of your property is in good condition, then this type of survey is for you.

Contact Us

If you’d like to find out more about our building surveying services, then get in touch! Contact Munday + Cramer today on 01245 326 200 or by emailing us at info@mcessex.co.uk.