RICS Home Surveys in North East
Home Surveys – North East
Buying a property is a major commitment, and a RICS Home Survey provides clear, independent insight into the condition of the home you’re considering. At Fife & Kimmitt Surveyors, we carry out RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Reports and Level 3 Building Surveys across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Darlington, Cleveland and the wider North East, combining local experience with regulated, professional expertise.
Many people believe their lender’s mortgage valuation is a proper survey, but it is not. A valuation simply confirms the property’s worth for lending purposes and does not assess issues such as damp, roof defects, timber decay or structural movement. A full RICS Home Survey is the only way to understand the true condition of the property.
Why a Detailed RICS Survey Matters?
In our view, you should commission a more detailed survey to ensure you are equipped with the right information to make a reasoned decision before proceeding with a purchase and at the right price. This is particularly important in the North East, where property age and construction styles vary significantly, something we explain further in our guide on why RICS property surveys matter in the North East.
Every survey has limitations and can only report on defects that are visible and accessible. However, a qualified, experienced surveyor with strong local knowledge of typical North East property issues and market values must carry out the inspection. This ensures the final report is meaningful and genuinely helpful, which is exactly why many buyers prefer to work with local RICS surveyors who understand the region.
Choosing the Right RICS Home Survey
At Fife & Kimmitt Surveyors, we recommend the RICS Home Survey & Valuation Level 2 for most standard or modern properties, and the RICS Home Survey Level 3 for older, unusual, significantly altered or run-down homes. These surveys provide vital insight into the condition of a property and help you make a confident, informed decision before committing to a purchase.
Level 2 HomeBuyer Report
Ideal for conventional homes in reasonable condition. It assesses visible issues such as damp, roofing defects, timber decay and possible structural movement. It uses an easy-to-understand traffic-light rating system and can include a valuation.
Level 3 Building Survey
Best for older, larger or more complex properties. This is an in-depth inspection of all accessible elements, offering detailed explanations of defects, repair implications, risks and future maintenance needs.
Our surveyors bring extensive local knowledge of property types and common regional issues across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Darlington, Cleveland and surrounding areas. This ensures your chosen survey, whether Level 2 or Level 3, reflects not only the condition of the property but also the location-based factors that often influence homes in the North East.
Home Survey FAQs – Level 2, Level 3 & RICS Surveys
What is included in a RICS Home Survey?
A RICS Home Survey examines the visible and accessible parts of a property to identify defects, risks and areas needing repair. Depending on the level, it can highlight issues such as damp, roof problems, structural movement, timber decay and general wear. Level 2 and Level 3 surveys provide different depths of inspection.
What is the difference between a Level 2 and Level 3 survey?
A Level 2 HomeBuyer Report is suitable for standard, modern homes in reasonable condition. A Level 3 Building Survey is more detailed and designed for older, larger or more complex properties. Level 3 provides deeper investigation, repair advice and long-term maintenance guidance.
Do I need a Level 2 or Level 3 survey?
Choose a Level 2 survey if the property is conventional, newer and appears to be in average condition. Choose a Level 3 survey if the home is older, heavily altered, unusually constructed or showing signs of wear. If you’re unsure, we can advise based on the property type and age.
Are RICS Home Surveys worth it?
Yes. A RICS Home Survey can uncover defects that are not visible during viewings or included in a mortgage valuation. Identifying issues early helps you make an informed decision, budget accurately, and sometimes renegotiate the purchase price.
How much does a home buyers survey cost?
Costs vary depending on the size, age and complexity of the property. A Level 2 report is typically more affordable than a Level 3 Building Survey. Our North East survey cost guide offers typical price ranges for both types.
Does a RICS Home Survey include a valuation?
A valuation is included in the RICS Level 2 Survey with Valuation, but is not automatically included in all surveys. If you require a valuation for lending, Help to Buy, Right to Buy or probate purposes, we also offer standalone RICS valuations.
How long does a RICS Level 2 or Level 3 survey take?
A Level 2 survey usually takes 2 -4 hours, while a Level 3 Building Survey can take a full morning or day, depending on the complexity and size of the property.
Can a survey help me renegotiate the price?
Yes. If the survey identifies defects or costly repairs, many buyers use the findings to renegotiate with the seller or request that certain issues are addressed before completing the purchase.
Does a mortgage valuation count as a home survey?
No. A mortgage valuation simply confirms the property’s market value for the lender. It does not thoroughly inspect the condition, and therefore should not be relied upon as a home survey.
Do you cover Newcastle, Sunderland and the wider North East?
Yes. We provide Level 2 and Level 3 RICS Home Surveys across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Darlington, Cleveland and surrounding North East areas, combining regional knowledge with RICS-accredited expertise.
Speak to a Surveyor Near You
Call: 0191 250 8258
Email: admin@fifeandkimmittsurveyors.com
Address: 1 Church St, Houghton le Spring DH4 4DN
Open Times: Monday to Friday: 9:00am-5:00pm