--- title: What’s Included in a Level 2 Survey? description: Find out what a Level 2 property survey includes, what the surveyor checks, what the report covers and when a more detailed survey may be suitable. --- [Skip to content](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/domestic-property-surveys-ltd-blog/whats-included-in-a-level-2-survey#main-content) ![domestic-property-surveys-logo](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/hs-fs/hubfs/domestic-property-surveys-logo.webp?width=150&height=52&name=domestic-property-surveys-logo.webp)Homepage - [Home](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk) - Services - [Party Wall Advice](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/party-wall-advice-london-kent-essex-sussex-surrey) - [Building Surveys](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/building-surveys/) - [Homebuyer Survey](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyer-surveys) - Locations - [London Level 2](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyers-survey-london-rics-level-2-fixed-quotes) - [London Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-london-rics-structural-survey) - [Kent Level 2](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyers-survey-kent-rics-level-2-fixed-quotes) - [Kent Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-kent-rics-structural-survey) - [Sussex Level 2](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyers-survey-sussex-rics-level-2-fixed-quotes) - [Sussex Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-sussex-rics-structural-survey) - [Essex Level 2](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyers-survey-essex-rics-level-2-fixed-quotes) - [Essex Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-essex) - [Hampshire Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-hampshire-rics-or-rpsa-building-surveys-dps) - [About](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/about-domestic-property-surveys-experienced-surveyors-in-kent) - [Our Team](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/our-team) - [Reviews](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/domestic-property-surveys-reviews-rated-excellent-by-homeowners) - [Contact us](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/contact-us) - [Home](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk) - Services - [Party Wall Advice](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/party-wall-advice-london-kent-essex-sussex-surrey) - [Building Surveys](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/building-surveys/) - [Homebuyer Survey](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyer-surveys) - Locations - [London Level 2](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyers-survey-london-rics-level-2-fixed-quotes) - [London Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-london-rics-structural-survey) - [Kent Level 2](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyers-survey-kent-rics-level-2-fixed-quotes) - [Kent Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-kent-rics-structural-survey) - [Sussex Level 2](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyers-survey-sussex-rics-level-2-fixed-quotes) - [Sussex Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-sussex-rics-structural-survey) - [Essex Level 2](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/homebuyers-survey-essex-rics-level-2-fixed-quotes) - [Essex Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-essex) - [Hampshire Level 3](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/level-3-building-survey-hampshire-rics-or-rpsa-building-surveys-dps) - [About](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/about-domestic-property-surveys-experienced-surveyors-in-kent) - [Our Team](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/our-team) - [Reviews](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/domestic-property-surveys-reviews-rated-excellent-by-homeowners) - [Contact us](https://domesticpropertysurveys.co.uk/contact-us) # What’s Included in a Level 2 Survey? ![Domestic Property Surveys](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/cce1ae01c6b61a08db0b72515dba5899) Domestic Property Surveys October 23, 2026 Buying a home is a major commitment, and understanding a property's condition before you proceed can help you make a more informed decision. A Level 2 survey—often referred to as a Homebuyer Survey—is intended to provide a clear overview of the condition of a conventional property, highlighting significant defects, potential risks and areas that may need attention. The precise inspection and report depend on the survey service you commission and the surveyor's terms. At Domestic Property Surveys, our team includes surveyors accredited by recognised professional bodies, including RICS and the RPSA. Always check the scope of the specific survey being offered so you know what is and is not included. ## What does a Level 2 survey inspect? A Level 2 survey is generally a visual inspection of accessible parts of the property. The surveyor assesses the main building elements and records visible defects or concerns. The exact areas inspected depend on access, the property's design and the terms of the survey. - **Roof and chimneys:** visible roof coverings, chimneys and related features where they can be inspected safely and accessibly. - **Rainwater goods:** visible gutters, downpipes and other features that carry rainwater away from the building. - **External walls and structure:** visible signs of cracking, movement, deterioration or other defects. - **Windows and doors:** visible condition, including signs of damage or deterioration. - **Internal walls, ceilings and floors:** visible defects, cracking, damp indicators and other signs that may warrant attention. - **Accessible roof spaces:** where access is available and inspection is possible within the survey's scope. - **Visible services:** the surveyor may note the apparent condition of visible parts of services such as electricity, gas, water, heating and drainage, but these are not normally tested as part of a standard visual survey. - **External areas:** accessible paths, boundaries and other features associated with the property, to the extent covered by the agreed scope. A survey is not a guarantee that every defect will be found. Some parts of a property may be hidden, inaccessible or unsafe to inspect, and this will affect what the surveyor can report on. ## What will the survey report tell me? The report explains the surveyor's findings and helps you understand the condition of the property at the time of inspection. Depending on the survey service, it may include: - Descriptions of visible defects and areas of concern. - Advice about repairs, maintenance and issues that may need prompt attention. - Recommendations for further investigation where a problem cannot be fully assessed during the visual inspection. - Photographs or other supporting information, where provided as part of the service. - Guidance to help you understand the potential implications of the findings before you commit to the purchase. The aim is to give you useful information about the property's condition, not to make the buying decision for you. You can use the findings to ask further questions, seek specialist advice or consider likely repair and maintenance costs. ## What isn't usually included in a Level 2 survey? A Level 2 survey is not the same as a fully invasive investigation or a specialist test of every part of a building. Unless expressly included in the agreed service, it will not normally involve: - Opening up walls, floors, ceilings or other building fabric to inspect concealed areas. - Moving heavy furniture or removing fixed fittings and floor coverings. - Testing electrical, gas, plumbing, heating or drainage systems. - Carrying out specialist checks, such as a dedicated asbestos survey, electrical inspection or drain survey. - Providing a repair quotation for every defect identified. If the surveyor finds signs of a possible issue that needs closer examination, the report may recommend further investigation by an appropriately qualified specialist. It is important to read the limitations and recommendations in your own report carefully. ## Does a Level 2 survey include a valuation? Not necessarily. A condition survey and a valuation are different services. Some survey products offer a valuation or reinstatement cost assessment as an additional or specified part of the service, while others focus on the property's condition. Check the service description and quotation to confirm whether any valuation is included. A survey is also different from a mortgage valuation arranged for a lender. A lender's valuation is primarily for the lender's purposes and should not be treated as a detailed assessment of the property's condition for the buyer. ## RICS and RPSA surveyors: what should I check? Property surveyors may be members of different professional bodies, including the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA). The professional framework, report format and scope can vary depending on the service and surveyor. Rather than assuming all surveys are identical, ask what the inspection covers, what type of report you will receive, what limitations apply and whether any valuation or additional checks are included. If you are unsure which service is suitable, discuss the property with the provider before booking. ## Is a Level 2 survey right for my property? A Level 2 survey is generally intended for conventional properties that appear to be in reasonable condition. It may suit many standard houses and flats, but the right survey depends on the property's age, construction, alterations, condition and your concerns. An older, unusual, heavily altered or visibly defective property may benefit from a more detailed Building Survey, often referred to as a Level 3 survey. If the surveyor identifies concerns that fall outside the agreed inspection, further specialist investigations may also be advisable. If you are uncertain, provide the surveyor with the property's age, type, address and any known issues and ask which level of inspection is appropriate. Choosing the right scope at the outset can help you understand what to expect from the report. ## Frequently asked questions ### How long does a Level 2 survey take? The time needed on site varies with the property's size, layout, condition and accessibility. Report preparation also takes time. Ask your survey provider for an expected timescale for your particular property. ### When will I receive my survey report? Turnaround times vary depending on the surveyor, property and workload. Your provider should explain the expected delivery time when you book. ### Will the survey identify every problem with the property? No. A Level 2 survey is a visual inspection within an agreed scope. Concealed, inaccessible or intermittent problems may not be apparent on the day. The report may recommend further investigation where appropriate. ### Should I choose a Level 2 or Level 3 survey? It depends on the property and your needs. A Level 2 survey is generally aimed at conventional properties in reasonable condition, while a Level 3 Building Survey provides a more detailed assessment and may be more suitable for older, altered or more complex buildings. Discuss the options with your survey provider if you are unsure. ## Talk to us about your property survey If you're buying a property and would like help understanding which survey may be suitable, contact Domestic Property Surveys. Tell us a little about the property and your requirements, and our team can help you discuss the available options. 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