Choose a Level 2 Home Survey for a conventional home in reasonable condition, typically built after the 1940s and not heavily altered. Choose a Level 3 Building Survey for anything older, listed, extended, unusual in construction or in poor condition, or if you plan significant work after you buy.
| Level 2 Home Survey | Level 3 Building Survey | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Conventional homes in reasonable condition, usually post-1940s | Older, listed, altered, non-standard or run-down homes |
| Inspection | Visual, everything safely accessible | More thorough, including roof space and under-floor where accessible |
| Condition ratings | Yes (1, 2, 3) | Yes (1, 2, 3) |
| Causes of defects | Brief | Explained in detail |
| Repair advice | Further investigation flagged | Repair options, timescales and consequences |
| Valuation | Optional add-on | Not usually included |
| Typical time on site | 2-4 hours | 4-8 hours |
| Our price from | £395 | £595 |
Choose a Level 3 if any of these apply
- Built before about 1940, or of historic interest
- Listed, or in a conservation area
- Timber frame, steel frame, concrete (PRC), cob, thatch or other non-standard construction
- Extended, converted or with a loft conversion
- Obvious cracks, damp, sagging roofs or neglect
- You plan major renovation after buying
A Level 2 is usually enough when
- The home is conventional brick or block built, from the 1940s onwards
- It looks well maintained and hasn't been significantly altered
- You want a clear traffic-light summary rather than detailed repair advice
Prices by property value
| Property value | Level 2 | Level 2 + valuation | Level 3 | valuation only |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Up to £100k | £395 | £495 | £595 | £295 |
| £100k - £150k | £425 | £525 | £650 | £310 |
| £150k - £200k | £450 | £560 | £695 | £325 |
| £200k - £250k | £475 | £595 | £750 | £345 |
| £250k - £300k | £525 | £650 | £825 | £375 |
| £300k - £400k | £575 | £715 | £895 | £395 |
| £400k - £500k | £650 | £795 | £995 | £450 |
| £500k - £750k | £775 | £950 | £1,195 | £525 |
| £750k - £1m | £925 | £1,125 | £1,450 | £625 |
| £1m - £1.5m | £1,150 | £1,395 | £1,795 | £795 |
| Over £1.5m | On request | On request | On request | On request |
Fixed prices including VAT. Some large or unusual properties may be priced individually - we confirm your price before you pay.
Read more: Level 2 Home Survey and Level 3 Building Survey.
Frequently asked questions
Is Level 3 always better?
It's more detailed, but not always necessary. For a modern, conventional home in good order, a Level 2 gives you what you need at a lower cost.
Can a surveyor upgrade me on the day?
If the surveyor finds the property needs more investigation than a Level 2 allows, they will say so in the report and recommend further inspection. It's better to choose the right level when you book.
Which is better for a 1930s semi?
It depends on condition and alterations. An original, well-kept 1930s semi may suit a Level 2; one with extensions, a loft conversion or visible movement suits a Level 3.
Do lenders require either survey?
No. Your lender only needs its own valuation. A survey is for your protection.