Residential Services

Why employ a RIC’s Certified Building Surveyor?

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RICS (Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors) is a professional organisation which regulates Surveyors to help offer their clients a safe marketplace, inspire confidence and maintain the reputation of the profession.  RICS delivers confidence through respected global standards, adopted, and enforced by over 134,000 qualified and trainee professionals across the built and natural environment.

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A RICS Certified Surveyor is expected to undertake a set minimum number of hours of CPD (Continuing Professional Development) each year. This CPD updates on the latest rules, emerging trends, legislation updates and regulations required to be undertaken by a surveyor.

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What is the 'Red Book'?

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The ‘Red Book’ is issued by RICS as part of their commitment to promote and support high standards in valuation delivery worldwide. The publication details mandatory practices and rules, best practice guidance and related commentary for RICS members undertaking valuation services.

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At Chris Hodgson Surveyors, we abide by the practices and rules set down in the ‘Red Book’ as part of our service to our clients.

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What is a Home Survey Level 1 (Condition Report)?

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A Home Survey Level 1 (Condition Report) is classed as a Level 1 report and can be used for a conventional house, flat or bungalow built from common building materials and in reasonable condition. It focuses purely on the condition of the property by setting out the following:

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• Clear ‘traffic light’ ratings of the condition of different parts of the building, services, garage and outbuildings, showing problems that may require varying degrees of attention.

• A summary of the risks to the condition of the building.

• Advice on replacement parts guarantees, planning and control matters for your legal advisers.

• A Home Survey Level 1 does not include a valuation

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What is a RICS Home Survey Level 2 (HomeBuyer)?

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A RICS Home Survey Level 2 (HomeBuyer Report) is classed as a Level 2 report and is the most popular type of survey, and the standard choice for most properties in reasonable condition. A Homebuyer Report looks at everything that would be covered in a Condition Report, with added extras. The survey can take around two to four hours to complete. A Home Survey Level 2 Report lists any problems that might affect the property's value, and the surveyor's advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance. It should also highlight any problems such as damp and subsidence and point out anything that doesn’t meet current building regulations.

 

The inspection is non-intrusive, meaning the surveyor won't look behind furniture or under floorboards, so they’ll only be able to identify ‘surface-level’ issues. A Home Survey Level 2  Report can also include information such as how much the surveyor thinks the property is worth on the market, and how much it would cost to completely rebuild the property if it were destroyed and couldn't be repaired. The Home Survey Level 2 Report is easily understood - written in plain English rather than technical jargon.

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What is a Home Survey Level 3 (Building Survey)?

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A Home Survey Level 3 (Building Survey) is classed as a Level 3 survey and was known as a Full Structural Survey. This is the most thorough survey you can get. It provides a comprehensive analysis of both the property's structure and condition. A Home Survey Level 3 (Building Survey) is a good option if you’re buying an older property, one of unusual design, or in poor condition. It can also be worthwhile if you’re planning to do significant work or have major concerns about a property.