Survey costs
Is a drone included because the firm’s website shows one?
No. A drone is an extra unless the quote says you are getting one. RICS levels are visual inspections from the access the level describes. A photograph on a brochure is not a term of your instruction. If you need a roof seen that a ladder will not reach, ask whether a drone is available, what it will cover, and what it costs.
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?
A drone still does not see under the tiles or inside a chimney. It can show a ridge, a valley or a missing slate from above. It can also be grounded by wind, permission or a tight terrace. The report should say if the flight did not happen. There is no RICS drone tariff. Do not compare two quotes where only one includes the flight and pretend the levels differ.
Do not fly your own drone at the property. You do not own it yet, and you may annoy the neighbours for a worse picture than the survey. If the fee excludes the drone and the roof is the reason you are buying a Level 3, say so before you book, not after the PDF arrives without the slope.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- Is a drone in this quote, and which slopes would it see?
- What do you do if you cannot fly on the day?
- Is the price inside the survey fee or extra?
What are the typical next steps?
- Get the extra in writing if you need it.
- Do not assume a website photo is your inspection.
- Read the report for what was actually flown.
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
Does a drone replace the loft inspection?
No. Outside the covering and inside the loft are different views. You may need both.
Is a drone a Level 4?
No. There is no such RICS home-survey level. It is an extra on a level you have named.