Age and type of house
Why is the roof void of a bungalow a larger share of the survey?
Because there is no upstairs floor between you and the roof. The void is the structure you are buying, and hatches are sometimes the only way in. If the hatch is sealed, or the roof is too low to enter safely, that limit covers more of the building than the same limit in a two-storey house. Ask how this firm treats bungalow roofs before you choose Level 1.
Last reviewed 24 October 2026. Written for buyers in England and Wales unless this answer says otherwise. No named surveyor has signed this page. It is general guidance, not a report on your house, and not legal advice.
What is the fuller explanation?
Rafters, purlins and water tanks sit in that void. A leak stains the ceiling of the only living floor. The surveyor should enter if it is safe and the scope says so. They should not crawl an unsafe space to be helpful. NI on a bungalow roof structure is a reason to ask what would make a return possible, not a reason to shrug.
Level 3 describes more of an unusual or altered roof, including many loft rooms cut into bungalows. It still does not test electrics in the void or certify spray foam. Tell the firm if foam, a conversion or a very low pitch is involved, because that changes time and fee. RICS gives no single bungalow price.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- Will you enter the roof void on this bungalow?
- What stops you: height, stored goods, or a sealed hatch?
- Is the fee based on a simple void or on a converted one?
What are the typical next steps?
- Clear the hatch before the visit.
- If the report says NI, do not decorate the ceilings and then claim nobody could have known.
- Choose the level for the roof you have, not for the word bungalow.
Costs vary with the building and with who you instruct. Where this page does not cite a published figure, ask the surveyor, a relevant specialist, or your solicitor for a written quote. Do not treat a forum average as the price.
Also asked about this
Is a dormer bungalow the same inspection?
No. Dormers add junctions and a floor in the roof. Say so when you instruct.
Does a bungalow need a Level 3 by rule?
No. RICS does not say that. Altered, unusual or foam-filled roofs are why people step up. A simple conventional bungalow may not.