RICS Home Survey Level 2 in Luton

A Level 2 survey is a visual check of the home's condition. The surveyor looks at the roof, walls, windows, floors, damp, drains and services such as heating and electrics.

It used to be called a HomeBuyer Report. It sits between a basic mortgage valuation and the more detailed Level 3 survey.

Each part of the home gets a rating. Green (1) means no repair is needed now. Amber (2) means a defect needs repair, but it is not serious or urgent.

Red (3) means a defect is serious, or needs repair or a closer look urgently. Red items are the ones to raise with your solicitor or the seller before you exchange.

Choose Level 2 for a standard house or flat built from common materials and in reasonable condition. Many family homes and newer flats fit this.

A Level 2 may not go deep enough for a very old, unusual or run-down home. The same goes for homes with big changes, like a loft conversion.

The surveyor does not lift floorboards, move heavy furniture or test the services. They report on what can be seen safely on the day.

If they spot something that needs a closer look, like a crack or damp, the report says so. You can then get a specialist in before you exchange contracts.