Building Survey vs. HomeBuyer 

This comparison can help guide your decision on which survey best fits your needs based on the level of detail you require for your property inspection.

Summary of Key Differences

- Depth of Inspection: The Full Building Survey (Level 3) offers a much more detailed, bespoke analysis, covering both visible and hidden defects, while the HomeBuyer Survey (Level 2) provides a more general overview of significant issues.

- Scope of Report: The Full Building Survey covers all accessible areas and includes structural details and repair recommendations, while the HomeBuyer Survey focuses on more easily accessible areas and only highlights serious issues.

- Maintenance & Repair Guidance: The Full Building Survey includes extensive advice on repairs, future maintenance, and potential costs, while the HomeBuyer Survey offers limited advice and does not go into cost details.

- Valuation & Reinstatement Costs: A Level 3 survey includes reinstatement costs and a detailed valuation upon request, while the Level 2 survey typically only provides a market valuation unless specified.

Level 3: Full Building Survey

  • A tailored report designed specifically for you and your property, allowing the surveyor to focus on particular issues you raise in detail.

  • Includes checks of all accessible areas, such as cellars, attics, under carpets, and behind furniture.

  • Covers both visible defects and potential hidden problems, examining structural integrity, property build, and construction materials in detail.

  • Discusses repairs already made, the scope of remedial work, costs, timescales, and causes of defects.

  • Offers advice on future maintenance, including areas requiring frequent or costly upkeep.

  • Available upon request.

  • The performance of heating, drainage, and other services is checked thoroughly.

  • Includes both major and minor issues, along with their implications for the property.

  • Full discussion on repair options, including timescales, costs, and scope of work.

Level 2: Homebuyer Survey

  • Uses a pre-determined template for ease of understanding.

  • Focuses only on easily accessible areas. Services such as heating and drainage are checked visually but not in-depth.

  • Describes only visible defects, without delving into potential hidden issues.

  • Covers only serious issues that affect the property value, such as major faults that could result in significant repair costs.

  • Briefly notes repairs or maintenance needed but doesn’t provide detailed options or costs for repairs.

  • Typically includes a market valuation, but not reinstatement costs unless requested.

  • Does not go into detail regarding repair options, timescales, or costs.

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