Choosing a survey level
Does a longer visit mean you bought a higher survey level?
No. RICS says a Home Survey inspection generally takes between two hours and a full day, and several days on a particularly large property. That is the visit, and it varies with size and complexity, not with a stopwatch that proves the level. The written report takes as long as the firm promised. The promise is not a national rule.
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 small flat can be a careful Level 3 in less time than a large neglected house at Level 2. Judging quality by minutes on the drive is how people quarrel with a good report. Judge it by whether the agreed scope was done: roof void, services visually, outbuildings, limitations written plainly.
Ask, before you instruct, for the inspection date and the date the report will arrive. If the surveyor is on site for twenty minutes at a large altered house, ask what they could not see. Do not invent a refund from the RICS sentence. The fee is the contract with the firm.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- What date will you inspect, and what date will I have the report?
- What would make this property a “several days” inspection?
- Which parts of the scope take the time: loft, grounds, outbuildings?
What are the typical next steps?
- Put the report date in the instruction.
- If access is refused, ask what the fee becomes. Do not assume a full refund.
- Do not stand over the surveyor with a timer and then ignore the limitations.
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 report late if it is not the same evening?
Only if the firm promised that. RICS does not promise same-day writing.
Does a mortgage valuation take the same time?
It is a different job. MoneyHelper says it is not a structural survey. Do not time one and expect the other.