FAQs - Real Surveying

Q: What is a help to buy valuation?

A Help to Buy valuation is an independent market valuation carried out by a RICS surveyor to confirm the current value of your property. It’s required when selling, staircasing, remortgaging or repaying a Help to Buy loan.

Q: Do I need a survey for a new build?

If you’re the first owner of a brand-new property, a snagging survey is usually more appropriate. If the property is over two years old, a RICS Level 2 survey is suitable. It’s important to remember that new homes are not risk-free, and defects are commonly found regardless of age.

Q: Does a RICS Level 2 or 3 survey include a valuation?

A RICS Level 2 survey with Real Surveying and most surveying practices does not automatically include a valuation. A market valuation can usually be added as an optional extra if you need one.

Q: Do I need a Level 3 survey for an older or listed property?

A Level 3 survey is the most appropriate option for listed and older properties, as these buildings often involve traditional construction methods, greater complexity and a higher risk of hidden defects that require a more detailed assessment.

Q: What’s the difference between a RICS Level 2 and Level 3 survey?

A RICS Level 2 survey is suited to conventional homes in reasonable condition and provides a clear overview of the property, highlighting visible defects, issues and maintenance concerns. A RICS Level 3 survey is more detailed and is designed for older, altered, larger or non-standard properties, offering a detailed assessment of the property condition, construction methods and defects. Both are carried out by Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) surveyors, the difference lies in the level of detail required for the specific property.