RICS Level 1 Home Condition Report

When you are buying a new property, it’s crucial you understand what you are planning to invest in. With this in mind, a building survey will ensure you make an informed decision. There are three main types of surveys to be aware of/choose from (subject to property type and budget):

What is a Level 1 house survey?

A RICS Level 1 Home Survey was previously called a ‘Condition Report’. It describes the condition of a property, identifies any risks or potential legal issues, and highlights any urgent defects. If you are buying a conventional property that is built with common building materials and is in visually good condition, you should choose this type of survey.

Book Your Building Survey or Homebuyer Report

For reliable, independent, RICS-regulated Chartered Building Surveyors in London and Kent:
Call: 020 8295 1200 (London) or 01303 239 000 (Kent)
Email: info@collier-stevens.co.uk
Or request a London or Kent building survey quote online.

Why should I have a home condition report?

Getting this survey will give you peace of mind knowing your home is in good condition, and it could save you thousands of pounds in repairs that may need to be carried out after you’ve bought the property. Don’t confuse this with a valuation report; that’s something the lender will do and only looks at the value of the property (not its condition).

What properties are suitable for a Level 1 survey?

A RICS Level 1 Survey is a basic, visual-only check suitable for modern homes that look to be in a good condition.

What does a Level 1 house survey include?

A Level 1 Survey includes a visual inspection of your property, including walls, roofs, gutters, windows, ceilings, floors, plumbing, electrics and heating.

What’s not included in a Level 1 house survey?

Generally speaking, the Level 1 survey does not include in-depth, invasive, or technical assessments. It will not cover inaccessible areas and does not provide repair cost estimates, structural calculations, or checks on plumbing, heating, drainage, or electrical systems. The report will not advise on how to manage any defects or the potential costs of fixing them.

How long does a Level 1 survey take?

The duration depends on the size of your property, so if it’s a small one-bedroom flat then it will take significantly less time than a six-bedroom detached property. Generally speaking, a Level 1 Survey typically takes less than two hours.

How much does a Level 1 survey cost?

A RICS Level 1 Survey is typically the cheapest of the RICS surveys, starting at around £200. However, it’s worth noting that the price varies depending on the size of the property being surveyed.

How can Collier Stevens Chartered Surveyors help?

Our highly qualified team of Chartered Surveyors in Kent and property surveyors in London have a wealth of experience undertaking all types of surveys for both residential and commercial clients. While we do not undertake RICS Level 1 Surveys, we can advise on the most suitable survey to meet your needs. We offer RICS Level 2 and RICS Level 3 surveys which may be a more suitable option for you.

Get in touch for further guidance or enquire below: