Not every building needs the most thorough of the three RICS levels. What a building needs depends on its age and construction, its condition, and what you intend to do with it. Answer the three questions below for a suggestion, or read the comparison beneath.
At a glance
| Building | Condition | Plans | Suggested survey |
|---|---|---|---|
| Damp: a stain, a tide-mark, a mouldy corner | Any | Find the cause before spending | Damp Survey |
| A specific problem (crack, movement, failing roof) | Any | Diagnose the cause | Defect Diagnosis |
| Pre-1880 / traditionally built | Any | Any | Level 3 (Building Survey) |
| Listed or designated | Any | Any | Level 3 (Building Survey) |
| 1880–1939 | Sound | No major works | Level 2 (Homebuyer) |
| 1880–1939 | Poor / uncertain | Any | Level 3 (Building Survey) |
| 1880–1939 | Any | Major alterations | Level 3 (Building Survey) |
| Higher-end / significant modern | Any | Any | Level 3 (Building Survey) |
| Ordinary modern (post-1939) | Any | Any | Not our specialism: a high-street firm will serve you better |
| You need a valuation (market value) | Any | Any | Not offered: you'll need a RICS Registered Valuer |
Still unsure? That is what a conversation is for. Get in touch with a little about the property and I'll tell you plainly which survey it needs, and which it doesn't.