DIRECTOR-LED HOME BUYER SURVEY
(RICS LEVEL 2 Survey)

DIRECTOR-LED HOME BUYER SURVEY
(RICS Level 2 Survey)
For many properties, a concise but thorough inspection is entirely appropriate. The purpose of a Home Buyer Survey is to provide clear, independent advice on condition and risk — without unnecessary complexity.

At South East Surveyors, every Home Buyer Survey is personally undertaken by Chartered Building Surveyor Tom Whitworth MRICS. We do not operate a reduced inspection model. Each property is inspected with the same professional care and attention as our Building Surveys.

WHAT IS A HOME BUYER SURVEY?
A Home Buyer Survey (RICS Level 2) is a structured condition report designed for properties of conventional construction, built post-1930, which appear to be in reasonable condition and have not been significantly altered.

It provides:
- A clear overview of the property’s condition
- Identification of significant defects
- Assessment of urgent risks
- Commentary to assist your legal adviser
- Practical guidance on necessary repairs

While the inspection standard remains thorough, this format does not include the detailed and specific repair specification advice provided within a Level 3 Building Survey.

OUR APPROACH TO LEVEL 2 SURVEYS
We do not believe in providing a reduced or superficial inspection.

The difference between our Level 2 and Level 3 services lies primarily in the reporting format and depth of repair specification — not in the care taken during inspection.

Each instruction receives:
- The same measured, systematic inspection process
- The same professional judgement
- The same commitment to clarity

We will only recommend a Level 2 Survey where it is genuinely appropriate for the property type and construction.

WHAT MAKES OUR HOME BUYER SURVEYS DIFFERENT?
DIRECTOR-LED INSPECTION
Your property is inspected personally by the company director, ensuring consistency and accountability.

DETAILED ANNOTATED REPORTING
Reports include extensive, high-resolution annotated photographs and clear explanations of findings.

ADVANCED INSPECTION EQUIPMENT
Thermal imaging cameras, hygrometers, pole camera access equipment and endoscopes are utilised where appropriate, in addition to standard survey equipment.

CLEAR, PRIORITISED ADVICE
Findings are structured to distinguish:
- Urgent matters
- Significant defects
- Ongoing maintenance considerations

The objective is clarity and proportionate advice — not unnecessary alarm.

COMPLIMENTARY POST-REPORT CONSULTATION
A post-report telephone consultation (up to 30 minutes) is included on request to ensure you fully understand the findings.

OPTIONAL ON-SITE WALK-THROUGH
An optional walk-round service can be arranged following inspection (subject to access and availability), allowing you to review key findings in person.

WHEN IS A LEVEL 2 SURVEY APPROPRIATE?
A Home Buyer Survey is generally suitable where:
- The property was constructed after 1930
- The construction is conventional
- The property has not been extensively altered
- The condition appears average or better

Where detailed repair specification or traditional building advice is required — particularly for older properties — a Level 3 Building Survey will be recommended instead.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?
- Pre-inspection desktop research
- Thorough inspection of the property and grounds
- Assessment of structural stability and visible defects
- Commentary on dampness and potential risks
- Inspection of roof coverings and high-level elements (where accessible)
- Review of timber elements and joinery
- Observation of services in normal operation (where possible)
- Guidance for your legal adviser
- Clear photographic evidence throughout

Valuations and BCIS reinstatement cost assessments can be included if required.

REPORT FORMAT
All reports are prepared using our own enhanced reporting format, fully aligned with the RICS Home Survey Standard.

Each report is written personally by the inspecting Chartered Surveyor. We do not outsource report drafting or rely solely on standardised template commentary.

Our format has been developed to ensure:
- Clear identification and prioritisation of risks
- Practical, proportionate repair guidance
- High-quality annotated photography throughout
- A logical structure designed for ease of use

The aim is to provide a report that is not only thorough, but genuinely helpful in supporting your decision-making.

FEES
Due to the varied nature of properties in our local area, each instruction is quoted individually.

To provide an accurate quotation we require:
- Property address
- Agreed purchase price
- Estate agent details
- Any particular concerns you may have

Our fees reflect the professional time and attention dedicated to each inspection.

COST ESTIMATES AND CONTRACTORS
While we do not provide cost estimates as standard — due to variability in market pricing and remedial approaches — we provide clear defect descriptions to assist you in obtaining contractor quotations.

We maintain professional independence and do not recommend specific contractors, but we are happy to review quotations received and provide guidance in light of our findings.

A MEASURED, PROPORTIONATE APPROACH
Our objective is to provide clear, practical advice appropriate to the property you are purchasing — enabling you to proceed with confidence.

Please contact us for a tailored quotation.