Receiving your RICS Level 2 Home Survey report can feel overwhelming, particularly if it highlights defects, repairs or areas requiring further investigation. However, a survey identifying problems does not automatically mean you should withdraw from the purchase.
A homebuyer survey is designed to help you understand the condition of a property before you commit. Rather than acting as a simple pass or fail assessment, a RICS Level 2 Home Survey highlights potential risks, explains areas of concern and helps you make a more informed decision about the property.
If your survey identifies problems, the next steps are usually to understand the severity of the findings, obtain further advice where needed, assess potential costs and decide whether any action is required before proceeding with the purchase.
What Does It Mean When a RICS Level 2 Home Survey Finds Problems?
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey is one of the most common surveys chosen by buyers purchasing a conventional property that appears to be in reasonable condition. It provides an assessment of the property’s visible condition at the time of inspection and highlights issues that may require attention.
It is important to remember that most properties will have some issues identified during a survey. Older homes, in particular, may have signs of wear, outdated installations or areas requiring maintenance.
Understanding the difference between routine maintenance and significant defects is essential before deciding what to do next.
Understanding the Condition Ratings in Your RICS Homebuyer Report
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey typically uses condition ratings to help buyers understand the seriousness of issues identified.
Condition Rating 1 – No repair is currently needed.
Condition Rating 2 – Defects requiring attention but not urgent.
Condition Rating 3 – Serious defects requiring urgent attention.
A Condition Rating 3 does not necessarily mean you should abandon the purchase. Instead, it highlights areas where you need more information before making a decision.
Step 1: Carefully Review Your Survey Report
Before making any decisions, take time to read through your RICS homebuyer report in full.
Pay particular attention to condition ratings, comments explaining defects, recommendations for further investigation and areas where repairs may be required.
Step 2: Understand the Difference Between Defects and Maintenance Issues
Not every issue identified in a homebuyer survey is a serious defect. Many findings relate to normal ageing, wear and tear or future maintenance requirements.
More significant defects may include structural movement, significant damp, major roof defects, unsafe electrical installations or issues affecting the building’s integrity.
Step 3: Arrange Further Investigation Where Recommended
A RICS Level 2 Home Survey is based on a visual inspection of accessible areas. Further investigation may be recommended for damp, structural movement, roof defects, drainage issues or electrical concerns.
Step 4: Obtain Repair Quotes and Professional Advice
Professional advice and repair estimates can help you understand likely costs, urgency and whether the property remains suitable for your plans.
Step 5: Consider Whether You Need a Level 3 Survey or Specialist Report
A RICS Level 3 Building Survey may be recommended where major defects, unusual construction, renovation plans or structural concerns require more detailed assessment.
Step 6: Can You Renegotiate After a RICS Homebuyer Report?
Survey findings can support negotiations where significant repair costs have been identified. However, sellers are not automatically required to reduce the purchase price.
Should You Pull Out After a Survey Finds Problems?
Finding issues does not automatically mean the purchase is unsuitable. Buyers may continue, renegotiate, request further investigations or withdraw depending on the circumstances.
How SSJ Surveyors Can Help After Your Home Survey
Understanding survey findings can be challenging. SSJ Surveyors can help buyers understand property condition, defects and the implications of survey findings before proceeding with a purchase.
Contact SSJ Surveyors today to discuss your survey findings and get professional guidance before moving forward with your property purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if a survey finds problems with a house?
You can investigate findings further, obtain repair estimates, negotiate with the seller or decide whether proceeding remains the right choice.
Can a seller refuse to negotiate after a survey?
Yes. Sellers are not required to reduce the purchase price, although survey findings can support discussions.
Should I worry if my RICS Level 2 Home Survey finds defects?
Not necessarily. The important factor is understanding whether issues are minor maintenance items or significant defects.
Should I get a Level 3 survey after a Level 2 survey?
A Level 3 survey may be beneficial where serious defects are identified or further detail is needed.
Can a surveyor tell me whether I should buy a property?
A surveyor can provide professional advice about condition and risks, but the final decision remains with the buyer.