Survey types
Different properties and situations call for different levels of detail. Severn Surveyors Ltd offers a choice of RICS survey types so you can choose what best suits your needs when purchasing or owning a home.
Why have a survey?
Mortgage valuations are carried out for lenders and are not condition surveys. A RICS Level 2 or Level 3 survey is designed to identify defects, risks and maintenance issues that may not be apparent during a viewing.
An official RICS explainer video and real examples of issues identified during surveys can be viewed on our Why have a survey? page.
What level of survey do I need?
As a general guide, the appropriate survey level depends on the age, construction and condition of the property, and on how much work you plan to do after you buy it.
- Level 2 survey: Usually suitable for homes built from around the 1930s onward of conventional construction, for example brick cavity walls, pitched tiled roofs and concrete or timber floors. Best for properties that appear to be in a generally reasonable condition with limited alterations and no major planned structural changes.
- Level 3 survey: Recommended for older properties (typically pre-1930), listed buildings, homes that have been heavily extended or altered, buildings of non-standard construction (such as timber frame, concrete, steel frame or thatch), properties in poor condition, or where you intend to carry out significant refurbishment or structural work.
If you are unsure which level is most appropriate for your situation, please contact us and we can discuss the property and your plans before proceeding.
Level 2 Building Survey
Designed for conventional houses, flats and bungalows in reasonable condition. Highlights significant defects, urgent repairs and issues which may affect your decision to proceed.
- Most suited to relatively modern or standard-construction homes.
- Appropriate where you do not expect to carry out major structural alterations.
- Traffic light ratings for key elements with clear advice on risks and next steps.
Level 3 Building Survey
A more detailed investigation for older, larger, altered or non-standard properties, or where you are planning refurbishment or structural work.
- Recommended for older or heavily extended homes, properties in poor condition or “fixer-uppers”.
- Provides more depth on construction, defects, repair options and priorities.
- Best suited to complex or higher-value properties, or where you want the most thorough assessment.
Specific defect inspection
A focused inspection where there is a particular concern such as cracking, dampness or roof movement.
- Assistance with insurance reinstatement repairs, including preparing scopes of remedial work to support insurance claims.
- Targeted assessment of the specific issue.
- Clear advice on cause, risk and recommended next steps.
- Guidance on whether further investigation or opening-up is required.
- Useful before committing to contractors or intrusive work.
Get a free, no-obligation quote
Use our quick enquiry form and we will confirm the most suitable survey level, availability, and the fixed fee.
Customer testimonials
Feedback from recent clients across the Midlands and surrounding counties. You can read a selection of full testimonials on our customer testimonials page.
Areas we cover
Residential building surveys and house surveys are typically provided across the counties listed below. If your property is just outside these areas, please get in touch as assistance may still be possible.
- Worcestershire – independent RICS building surveyor
- Herefordshire – pre-purchase house surveys
- Gloucestershire – Level 2 and Level 3 building surveys
- Warwickshire – RICS home surveys
- West Midlands – house surveys and defect inspections
- Shropshire – building surveys on older and modern homes
- Oxfordshire – Level 2 and Level 3 building surveys for buyers and homeowners
- Wiltshire – independent RICS survey advice
Customer reviews
A small selection of feedback from recent clients. Further references can be provided on request.
"Very detailed Level 3 survey which highlighted several issues we would have otherwise missed. The report was clearly written and easy to follow."
Buyer, Worcester – October 2025
"Prompt service, clear fixed fee and a thorough Level 2 survey. The follow-up call helped us understand the main risks before exchange."
Buyer, Herefordshire – September 2025
"The surveyor took time to explain the findings and prioritise the repairs. We felt confident proceeding with the purchase."
Buyer, Gloucestershire – August 2025
Contact details
For enquiries, to discuss the type of survey you need or to request a quote, please get in touch using the details below or the quick enquiry form.
Email: info@severnsurveyors.co.uk
Phone: 07355 731092
Company: Severn Surveyors Ltd
Status: RICS registered firm
Typical hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 5:30pm
If you have any questions before proceeding, please get in touch and we will help you choose the most suitable survey.
Quick enquiry
Frequently asked questions
A few quick answers to common questions about RICS Level 2 and Level 3 building surveys and how the process works.
Which areas do you cover?
Residential building surveys are typically provided across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, the West Midlands, Shropshire, Oxfordshire and Wiltshire. If your property is just outside these areas, please get in touch as assistance may still be possible.
What level of survey do I need?
As a general guide, a Level 2 survey is usually suitable for conventional modern houses, flats and bungalows in reasonable condition. A Level 3 survey is recommended for older, heavily altered, non-standard or poor condition properties, or where you are planning significant refurbishment or structural work. If you are unsure, you can contact Severn Surveyors Ltd to discuss the property before proceeding.
How long does the report take?
Level 2 survey reports are normally issued within around 3 working days of the inspection and Level 3 survey reports within around 5 working days, unless a fast-track turnaround has been agreed. A fast-track option aims to issue the report within 48 hours of the inspection.
How do I get a quote?
Submit the free quote form with the property postcode and approximate purchase price, and we will confirm the most suitable survey level, availability and the fixed fee before anything is booked.