SurveySorted
Menu
Sign in

Choosing a survey level

What should you ask if the quote says Level 2/3 as if that were one product?

Ask which product you are buying. Level 2 and Level 3 are different surveys, and a slash does not merge them: Level 2 is for a conventional home in reasonable condition and of simple form, while Level 3 is for an older, altered or unusual building, or where major works are planned. The quote should name one.

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?

Since 1 March 2021 the RICS home survey a buyer books in this form has been one of three levels. People still say HomeBuyer for what is now Level 2 and Building Survey for what is now Level 3. A quote that prints Level 2/3 keeps both the old confusion and a new one: it looks like a single blended inspection. You cannot tell whether you will get Level 2’s report or Level 3’s longer description, and you cannot tell what was left outside the fee.

Reply and ask them to reissue the quote with Level 2 or Level 3, the address, and whether a valuation is included. Do not pay against the slash. There is no RICS product called Level 2/3, and no tariff for it. If the firm means they will decide the level after they see the house, say whether you are content with that, and ask when you will be told. Turning up to inspect without an agreed level is how the wrong report gets written.

What should you ask your surveyor?

  • Which level is this quote: 2, or 3, not both?
  • Is a valuation included, or is this survey only?
  • What about this house made you offer that level?

What are the typical next steps?

  1. Do not accept Level 2/3 as a product name.
  2. Ask for a fresh quote that names one level.
  3. Match the level to the building before you pay.

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 the old HomeBuyer name a blend of two current levels?

No. HomeBuyer is the old name for Level 2, not a blend with Level 3. Ask the firm to use the current level name.

Can one visit produce both reports for one fee?

Only if the terms say you are buying two products. A slash does not say that. Do not assume you will receive both.

Sources