Level 2 Home Survey (formerly Homebuyer Report)
Buying a home is a major investment, so understanding its true condition is essential. Core Consult’s Level 2 Home Surveys provide a clear, easy-to-read report highlighting any issues with the property.
Our experienced surveyors conduct a thorough mid-level inspection to identify potential problems and offer practical advice, helping you make a confident and informed decision. A market valuation can also be included for a small additional fee.
Understanding the Level 2 Home Survey (formerly Homebuyer Survey) Report
Tailored for Properties Built From 1930 Onwards
A Level 2 Home Survey (formerly the Homebuyer Report) provides a vital assessment of a property’s condition prior to purchase. During the process, a qualified RICS surveyor conducts a comprehensive visual inspection to identify significant defects or "hidden" issues that could impact your investment.
This service is ideal for conventional homes in reasonable repair. The resulting report prioritizes urgent repairs, offers legal guidance, and provides professional maintenance advice. For a small additional fee, we can also include a market valuation and an insurance reinstatement cost.
Comprehensive Environmental Checks: We also evaluate external risks, including flood potential, radon levels, landfill sites, and the impact of infrastructure projects like HS2.
COMPARE OUR HOME SURVEY SERVICES
See the key differences between a Level 2 Home Survey (formerly Homebuyer Report) and a Level 3 Home Survey (formerly Building Survey)
| FEATURE | LEVEL 2 HOME SURVEY (FORMERLY HOMEBUYER REPORT) | LEVEL 3 HOME SURVEY (FORMERLY BUILDING SURVEY) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Modern homes in good condition | Older, larger or altered properties | |
| Survey Detail | Mid-level inspection covering key defects | Most detailed survey with in-depth structural assessment | |
| Checks for Structural Issues | Basic checks | Comprehensive structural investigation | |
| Includes Cost Estimates for Repairs | No | No | |
| Suitable for Renovation Projects | No | Yes | |
| Survey Report Detail | Clear and concise report with condition ratings | Detailed analysis with professional recommendations | |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Choosing the right survey ensures you have the best information before purchasing a property. Our RICS-qualified surveyors offer clear, detailed reports tailored to your needs.
OUR HOME SURVEY PROCESS
1
Initial Consultation
We begin with a discussion to understand your needs.
2
Property Inspection
A thorough survey to identify defects and issues.
3
Detailed
Report
Clear and concise findings with recommendations.
4
Follow-Up
Support
We’re available to discuss any concerns.
WHAT WE CHECK IN A LEVEL 2 HOME SURVEY (FORMERLY HOMEBUYER REPORT)?
Our Level 2 Home Survey (formerly HomeBuyer Report) looks at key parts of the property to help you understand its condition.
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Chimneys checked for damage
Roof inspected for wear or leaks
Gutters and pipes checked for blockages
Walls checked for cracks and damp
Doors and windows assessed for condition
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Roof structure checked if accessible
Walls, ceilingsand floors inspected for cracks or damp
Fireplaces and chimneys reviewed
Fitted units and cupboards checked
Bathrooms checked for leaks and condition
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Electric wiring and sockets checked for visible issues
Gas and heating systems inspected where visible
Water supply checked for leaks
Drains reviewed where accessible
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Garages and outbuildings checked for condition
Boundary walls and fences inspected
Paths and driveways reviewed
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Legal issues flagged for solicitors
Risks such as damp or structural movement noted
Further investigations suggested if needed
Benefits of a Level 2 Home Survey (formerly HomeBuyer Report)
A Level 2 Home Survey (formerly HomeBuyer Report) is an essential investment for most modern property purchases. Primarily designed for conventional homes built after 1930 that are in reasonable condition, this service provides a clear and expert foundation for your property ownership journey.
Key Benefits
Spot Issues Early: We identify structural defects, signs of damp, or roof problems, allowing you to address them before you commit to the purchase.
Avoid Unexpected Costs: By catching necessary repairs in advance, you can save significant amounts of money on post-purchase maintenance.
Strengthen Your Negotiation: Use the professional report findings to request repairs from the seller or to justify a fair adjustment to the purchase price.
Buy with Confidence: Gain a clear understanding of the property's true condition, providing peace of mind during one of life’s most significant investments.
Plan for the Future: Receive expert guidance on potential ongoing maintenance requirements and future property improvements.
How Much Does an RICS Level 2 Home Survey (formerly HomeBuyer Report) Cost?
Survey costs vary depending on property type, size and location. Here’s what affects the price:
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Larger or more complex properties take longer to inspect, increasing survey costs.
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Older or listed buildings may require a more detailed inspection, affecting pricing.
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Survey costs vary based on the property's location and ease of access.
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More detailed inspections with additional checks may increase costs.
For an accurate quote based on your property, get in touch with our team today.
Home Surveys:
Your Questions Answered
Looking for answers about owning or buying a home in the UK? Browse our frequently asked questions below to learn more about our services and processes. If you can't find the information you're seeking, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly team for personalised assistance.
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The choice of survey depends on factors such as the property's age, condition, and any planned renovations.
Level 2 Survey (Homebuyer): For newer homes in good condition, a Level 2 survey may suffice.
Level 3 Survey (Building): For older, larger, or modified properties, a Level 3 Building Survey is recommended to identify potential issues.
Consulting with a qualified surveyor can help you determine the most appropriate survey for your needs.
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Look for surveyors who are members of professional bodies such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Membership ensures adherence to industry standards and codes of practice. You can search for qualified surveyors through the RICS website or seek recommendations from trusted sources.
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The duration depends on the property's size and the survey type. Typically, a Level 2 Survey (Homebuyer) takes a few hours, while a Level 3 Survey (Building) may take a full day.
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The cost of a survey depends on the location, the agreed purchase price, and the type of survey needed. Prices vary, so it’s best to get a quote based on your specific property.
Get a quote today - contact us to find out how much your survey will cost.
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Ensure the surveyor has full access to the property, including lofts and outbuildings. Provide any relevant documentation, such as planning permissions or building regulations approvals. Inform the surveyor of any specific concerns you have about the property.
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RICS Help to Buy Valuations
What is Help to Buy?
Help to Buy is a government scheme introduced in 2013 to help people buy their first home. It allows first-time buyers to borrow up to 20% of the price of a new-build home (or 40% in London) as an interest-free loan for the first five years.
Repaying Your Help to Buy Loan
If you used Help to Buy, your loan is interest-free for five years. You must repay the full amount within 25 years or earlier if you choose.
You can pay back the loan:
At any time if you have the funds.
By remortgaging (switching to a new mortgage).
When you sell your home (the repayment is based on your home's current market value, not the original price).
Help to Buy Valuations
When repaying your Help to Buy loan, Target, the company managing the scheme, requires a Help to Buy valuation from a RICS-registered surveyor. This valuation determines your home's current market value, which is used to calculate how much you need to repay.
If your home’s value has gone down, you repay less.
If its value has gone up, you repay more.
Once you get a Help to Buy valuation, you must send it to Target, who will confirm the repayment amount.
Important Notes:
The valuation is only valid for three months, so time your plans carefully.
If you sell or remortgage, make sure your valuation is still valid when you complete the process.
Professional. Trusted. RICS Accredited.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) sets the gold standard for surveying professionals.
By choosing a RICS-accredited surveyor, you are assured of expert advice, high-quality service and adherence to strict ethical standards.