When do you need an RICS Home Survey Level 1 (Condition Report)?
The RICS Home Survey level 1 (condition report) provides a basic overview of the condition of the property and the possible risks involved. Unlike more in-depth surveys available, it does not include a valuation, nor does it include recommendations or advice regarding any repairs that may be required.
What type of property needs an RICS Home Survey Level 1?
As the RICS Home Survey level 1 is the least thorough of the available professional property surveys, it is normally only recommended for new or modern properties, or in some instances flats. The property should ideally be in at least a reasonable condition.
We would not recommend the Home Survey level 1 for older buildings, unusual or converted buildings, or properties with significant defects. For these type of properties, we would recommend a more comprehensive survey, for example, an RICS Home Survey level 2 or an RICS Home Survey level 3.
What is included in the RICS Home Survey Level 1?
The RICS Home Survey level 1 is a basic report that provides a simple overview of the condition of a property. It is simply meant to give a summary of a property and the possible risks involved. The report will also advise on any legal issues which require addressing prior to completion of the purchase.
The surveyor will inspect the inside and outside of the main property (and any permanent outbuildings), recording the construction and any visible defects. The surveyor will only inspect areas of the property which are visible and accessible. Items such as fitted floorcoverings, floorboards, furniture, stored items, or the contents of cupboards etc will not be moved.
The Style of the report
The various elements of the property are presented in a traffic light system;
- Red (3) – refers to serious defects that need to be repaired, replaced, or investigated urgently.
- Amber (2) – refers to defects that need repairing or replacing but are not considered serious or urgent. The property must be maintained in the usual way.
- Green (1) – No repair is currently needed, and the property must be maintained in the usual way.
- NI – Not inspected.