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Property surveying guides for buyers, owners and landlords.
Concise guidance on surveys, defects, snagging, dilapidations and maintenance planning.
Latest guides
Helpful reading before you book a survey.
Home surveys
Which RICS survey do I need?
A Level 1 survey is a concise condition overview for simpler properties. A Level 2 survey gives more detail and is often suitable for conventional homes in reasonable condition.
A Level 3 survey is the most detailed option and is usually chosen for older, larger, altered or more complex properties.
- Choose Level 1 for a basic condition overview.
- Choose Level 2 for a broader buyer report before exchange.
- Choose Level 3 for older, unusual or significantly altered properties.
Buyer advice
What a Level 2 survey can tell you before exchange
A Level 2 survey can highlight visible defects, repair priorities, maintenance issues and matters that may need further investigation before exchange of contracts.
It is designed to give buyers clearer information before they commit to the purchase, especially where the property is conventional and appears to be in reasonable condition.
- Visible defects and areas requiring attention.
- Practical repair and maintenance considerations.
- Matters to raise with advisers, sellers or specialists where needed.
New builds
When to arrange a snagging survey
A snagging survey is useful when a new build, extension or refurbishment has been completed but defects, poor finishes or incomplete items need to be recorded.
The report can help support discussions with the builder, developer or contractor so issues are properly logged and addressed.
- New build homes before or shortly after completion.
- Extensions or refurbishment projects at handover.
- Visible workmanship issues, incomplete items or poor finishes.
Maintenance
Why planned maintenance matters
Planned preventative maintenance helps property owners understand likely repair priorities before issues become urgent or expensive.
A schedule can support budgeting, asset management and longer-term decisions for residential or commercial property.
- Prioritise repairs by urgency and risk.
- Plan budgets over short, medium and longer timeframes.
- Reduce avoidable deterioration through timely maintenance.
Need advice beyond a guide?
Contact B P Dunn LTD to discuss the property and the most suitable survey.