How Long Does a RICS Level 2 Home Survey Take?

Plan a RICS Level 2 inspection and written report around property size, access, complexity and the purchase timetable before exchange.

Property guidanceLevel 2 Home Surveys
Direct answer

Inspection time and the written report

The on-site inspection for a typical Level 2 Home Survey often takes a couple of hours, depending on size, access and complexity. The written report normally follows within a few working days. We confirm timings before you instruct.

Use the timing confirmed before instruction and preserve room before exchange for any recommended further investigation.

Further advice

Houses, flats and access

Do you survey flats as well as houses?

Yes. We survey houses, maisonettes and flats, including period conversions and mansion-block flats. For leasehold flats, we explain what could be inspected and where wider building or freeholder information would add value.

Further advice

Further investigation before exchange

Can the survey identify whether further investigations are needed?

Yes. Where visible signs suggest a more complex issue, the report can recommend targeted further investigation, such as drainage, structural engineer input, or specialist damp or timber advice.

Practical steps

What to do next

01

Allow for property size, access and complexity.

02

Confirm inspection and report timing before instruction.

03

Plan the survey before exchange.

04

Allow for any targeted further investigation the report recommends.

FAQs

Related questions

Can the report help before exchange?

Yes. Most buyers instruct a survey after an offer is accepted and before exchange of contracts, so the findings can inform the decision to proceed, the price, and any conditions. We agree timing with you when you instruct so the report supports your transaction timeline.

Can you help me choose before I instruct?

Yes. Send the property address, listing link and any concerns you already have. We will advise whether a Level 2 Home Survey is proportionate or whether the risk profile points to Level 3 before you commit.

When is a Level 2 survey usually enough?

A Level 2 survey is usually proportionate for a modern or conventional flat, maisonette or house that appears to be in reasonable condition, has no obvious structural movement, and has not been heavily altered. We still check your property details before recommending it.

About the author

Savas Bulduk

BSc (Hons) MRICS, Director & Chartered Building Surveyor.

Writes on Building surveying, Fire safety and facade, External wall systems, Technical due diligence, Contract administration. See the full team profile.

BSc (Hons) MRICS
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Reviewed by Savas Bulduk BSc (Hons) MRICS, Director & Chartered Building Surveyor at Hampstead Chartered Surveyors & Building Consultancy.
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