RICS Home Surveys – Level 2 & Level 3

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. A professional survey should provide clarity, not confusion, and confidence rather than uncertainty.

At James Scott Associates, we provide RICS Home Surveys Level 2 and Level 3, carried out by experienced Chartered Building Surveyors and overseen by a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (FRICS) — the highest level of professional recognition within RICS.

As an established Blackpool-based firm, we combine technical expertise, local knowledge and a clear client journey to deliver surveys that are thorough, proportionate and easy to understand.

RICS Home Survey – Level 2

Our Level 2 Home Survey is suitable for most conventional properties built from common materials and in reasonable condition.

The survey provides:

• A clear assessment of the property’s condition
• Identification of significant defects and risks
• Guidance on urgent repairs and maintenance
• Photographs to support key findings

Reports are written in plain English, using the RICS condition rating system to clearly highlight areas that require attention.

RICS Home Survey – Level 3 (Building Survey)

Our Level 3 Home Survey offers the most detailed inspection and is recommended for older, altered or non-standard properties.

This survey includes:

• Detailed analysis of the structure and fabric of the building
• Explanation of defects, their causes and implications
• Advice on repair priorities and future maintenance
• Commentary on alterations and extensions
• Photographs to clearly illustrate findings
• Indicative budget costs for repairs, where appropriate, to help inform negotiations

Each Level 3 survey is tailored to the individual property and client, providing practical, actionable advice rather than generic commentary.

Optional Survey Enhancements

To provide additional insight where appropriate, we offer a range of optional survey enhancements, which can be discussed at the point of instruction:

• Consultation with a Chartered Building Surveyor to discuss the report and findings in detail
• Drone imagery to assist with inspection of roofs, chimneys and other high-level elements
• Thermal imaging to help identify insulation defects, heat loss or moisture-related concerns
• Accelerated report turnaround, subject to availability

These options allow clients to tailor the survey to their needs without unnecessary cost or complexity.

Local Knowledge. Professional Oversight. Better Service.

As a long-established Blackpool-based surveying practice, we understand the local housing stock — from traditional terraces and coastal properties to post-war housing and modern developments.

This local insight, combined with FRICS-level oversight and dedicated support staff, ensures:

• Surveys that focus on genuine risks, not generic disclaimers
• Clear communication throughout the client journey
• Strong working relationships with local estate agents to support smoother transactions

Why Choose James Scott Associates?

• Surveys carried out by Chartered Building Surveyors
• FRICS (Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) oversight on every instruction
• Clear, honest and proportionate reporting
• Photographic evidence included as standard
• Optional enhancements tailored to your needs
• Established Blackpool firm with dedicated client support

At James Scott Associates, we don’t operate as a volume survey provider. We focus on quality, clarity and client care — delivering residential surveys you can trust.

Which Home Survey Do I Need?

Choosing the right survey depends on the age, type and condition of the property, as well as how much detail and reassurance you want before committing to purchase.

At James Scott Associates, we are always happy to discuss your circumstances before instruction, but the guide below will help you decide which RICS Home Survey is most suitable.

Choose a RICS Home Survey – Level 2 if:

• The property is of conventional construction
• It was built relatively recently or appears to be in reasonable condition
• There have been no significant alterations or extensions
• You want clear reassurance and identification of key issues

A Level 2 Survey provides a balanced overview of condition and risk, without the depth (or cost) of a full building survey.

Choose a RICS Home Survey – Level 3 (Building Survey) if:

• The property is older, altered or extended
• It is of traditional or non-standard construction
• There are visible defects or signs of poor condition
• You want a detailed understanding of defects, causes and repair options
• You want budget repair costs to support price negotiations

A Level 3 Survey offers the highest level of detail and is often the most cost-effective choice for higher-risk properties.

RICS Home Survey Comparison

Still Unsure? We’re Happy to Help

Every property – and every buyer – is different. If you are unsure which survey is right for you, we are always happy to offer clear, honest guidance before you instruct.

At James Scott Associates, our aim is not to upsell, but to ensure you receive the right level of advice for your property and your peace of mind.

Home Survey FAQs