Home Survey (Level 2)Our modern equivalent of the RICS HomeBuyer Report
A Clear Home Survey (Level 2)For modern properties
A Home Survey Level 2 is the modern equivalent of the traditional RICS HomeBuyer Report. It provides a clear, structured assessment of the visible parts of a property and is more informative than a mortgage valuation or basic Condition Report, while still being concise and easy to understand.
At Novello, our RICS qualified AssocRICS and MRICS surveyors carry out a thorough visual inspection of around 29 key internal and external elements. This includes the main structure, roof coverings, walls, windows, heating, plumbing, drainage, and the general condition of the property. Because it is a non-intrusive inspection, we do not lift carpets or move furniture.
A Level 2 survey is ideal for modern or conventional homes that appear to be in reasonable condition, where you want a well-explained overview of any defects, maintenance needs, or risks without the depth of a full Level 3 Building Survey. If the property is older, altered, in poor condition, or you simply want the most detailed report possible, a Level 3 survey is recommended.
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WHAT IS A LEVEL 2 PROPERTY SURVEY?
A Level 2 RICS HomeBuyer Report is designed for conventional or modern homes that appear to be in a reasonable state of repair and have not undergone major structural alterations. Novello’s Home Survey (Level 2) is our modern equivalent of the RICS HomeBuyer Report and provides a clear visual assessment of the property’s overall condition. It meets all RICS standards while offering excellent value for buyers who do not require the depth of a full Building Survey.
The Novello Home Survey (Level 2) will inspect key visible areas of a property, such as the roof, chimney stacks, external walls, windows and doors, gardens and boundaries, internal walls, partitions and joinery, fireplaces, chimney breasts and floor coverings. The report highlights significant defects, potential implications and recommendations for further action where appropriate.
A RICS qualified surveyor will also visually assess services, including heating, electricity, water and drainage, and advise if further specialist inspections are needed. Insulation and the general energy efficiency of the property will also be reviewed.
PROPERTY SURVEYS – THE TRAFFIC LIGHT SYSTEM
The survey report features an intuitive traffic light ranking system for each defect uncovered, making it one of the clearest and easy to understand reports available, while delivering genuinely useful and actionable information on the condition of the property.
Need a more detailed report before committing to decades of mortgage payments? Find out about our comprehensive building survey or full advisory Private Client Surveying service.
Serious/Urgent Repairs
Serious defects noted that require urgent repair, replacement, overhaul or further investigations or tests by an appropriate contractor, specialist or engineer.
Repairs/Improvements
Less serious defects that are not considered to be as urgent, but nevertheless will require attention, repair, overhaul or replacement in due course.
Ok/General maintenance
Elements where no major repairs are considered to be required currently.
WHAT DOES THE HOME SURVEY (LEVEL 2) INCLUDE?
Our detailed surveys will consist of the following:
- Thorough visual inspection of at least 29 internal and external elements of the property.
- Inspection of the heating, drainage, electric and water services, with advice on whether further specialist checks are required.
- Damp assessment throughout the property.
- Clear details of significant defects and information on how these may affect the property.
- Identification of issues that require further investigation.
- Easy to understand traffic light ratings.
- Summary report for your solicitor to help progress your purchase.
- Friendly expert follow up to answer any questions you may have.
- Undertaken by experienced RICS qualified AssocRICS and MRICS surveyors.
Who is a Home Survey (Level 2) suitable for?
A Home Survey (Level 2) is ideal for more modern and conventional homes that appear to be in a reasonable condition. It is designed for buyers who want a clear overview of any material defects and issues that may affect the property’s condition.
If the property is older, extended, non-standard or showing signs of wear, a Level 3 Building Survey may be more appropriate.
How the report is structured?
Your Home Survey is presented in a clear, user-friendly layout that includes:
- A summary of the main issues found during the inspection
- Traffic light rated condition scores for each element of the property
- Photographs highlighting key concerns
- Straightforward explanations written in plain English
- A logical structure that makes it easy to understand what matters most
This ensures you can quickly identify significant issues without needing technical knowledge.
Why choose Novello?
- One of the leading independent home survey providers in England and Wales
- Thorough inspection of at least 29 internal and external elements
- Carried out by experienced AssocRICS and MRICS surveyors
- Fast turnaround times and clear communication from start to finish
- Free follow-up call with your surveyor to discuss the findings
- Optional Pro Upgrade with repair cost estimates over £2,000 and drone photography
Why Do People Still Call It a RICS HomeBuyer Report?
Many homebuyers still search for “HomeBuyer Report” because it was the old RICS terminology. RICS replaced this with the
Home Survey Standard, and the modern equivalent is the Home Survey Level 2. Our Level 2 survey follows the latest RICS standards while providing clearer advice, photos of key issues and optional Pro Upgrade enhancements.
BOOK YOUR RICS SURVEY TODAY
Our survey reports give you all the facts– and they could save you thousands. For honest, impartial, and accurate advice from a trusted and innovative team of responsive experts, call Novello Chartered Surveyors.