Age & construction
Older buildings, traditional materials, unusual construction and non-standard details may justify greater depth.
RICS Home Surveys
Buying a property? Choose the right level of survey
SurveyAll provides RICS Level 2 and Level 3 Home Surveys across South East London. The right choice depends on the property itself - its age, construction, condition, alterations and the level of detail you need before committing to the purchase.
RICS regulated practice Physical inspection Clear written reporting
Start with the property, not the label
You do not need to decide the technical survey level on your own. We can help you choose after looking at the property details and your concerns.
Choose a survey route
Level 2, Level 3, or help deciding
The survey level should be proportionate to the property and the risks you want to understand.
RICS Level 2 Home SurveyFor many conventional houses, flats and bungalows built from common materials and in reasonable condition.
RICS Level 3 Home SurveyThe most detailed RICS Home Survey, often suited to older, altered, unusual, complex or visibly run-down property.
Which survey do I need?Compare the two levels side by side and see which property factors usually point toward more detailed reporting.
What influences the choice
There is more to it than the age of the building
A very old but well-maintained conventional property may present differently from a much newer home that has been heavily altered or has visible defects. The survey level should reflect the whole context.
Alterations & extensions
Extensions, loft conversions, removed walls, structural changes and multiple phases of work can increase complexity.
Condition & visible defects
Significant deterioration, cracking, damp, roof defects or evidence of movement may point toward a more detailed survey or a separate specialist investigation.
Your plans
If you are planning major refurbishment or alteration, deeper information about construction and condition can be more useful before purchase.
What both surveys are for
Independent condition advice before you commit
Both levels are designed to help a buyer understand the property better before exchange, within the agreed scope and the limitations of a non-destructive inspection.
Physical inspection
Accessible parts of the property are inspected visually in accordance with the agreed survey level and terms.
Defects & risks
Material defects, condition concerns and matters requiring attention are identified and explained in context.
Priorities & next steps
The report helps distinguish matters that may require urgent action, further investigation, maintenance or specialist advice.
Buyer understanding
The purpose is to give you clearer information for the purchase decision, not to guarantee that every hidden defect can be found.
Common questions
Choosing a Home Survey
What is the difference between a Level 2 and Level 3 survey?
A Level 2 survey is generally suited to conventional residential property built from common materials and in reasonable condition. A Level 3 survey provides a more extensive analysis and is often more appropriate for older, altered, unusual, complex or visibly run-down property, or where major works are planned.
Does the age of the property decide the survey level?
Age matters, but it is not the only factor. Construction type, alterations, current condition, complexity, visible defects and your plans for the property all influence the appropriate level of survey.
Can you advise which survey I should book?
Yes. Send the address or property listing and tell us about any particular concerns. We can then advise whether Level 2, Level 3 or another inspection route is more appropriate before you book.
Is a Home Survey the same as a valuation?
No. A Home Survey focuses on condition and defects. A formal valuation is a separate professional service unless a valuation scope is specifically agreed.
South East London
RICS Home Surveys across Greenwich, Lewisham, Bexley and Bromley
SurveyAll regularly inspects residential property across South East London, with strong local familiarity around Plumstead, Woolwich and neighbouring areas.