What is the difference between a RICS Level 2 Hombuyers survey and a RICS level 3 Full Building Survey?

Understanding the Difference: RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey vs RICS Level 3 Building Survey

RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey vs RICS Level 3 Building Survey: What’s the Difference?

When buying a home, one of the most important steps you can take is ensuring the property is structurally sound and free of unexpected issues. At WBC Valuations Ltd, we provide expert property surveys across Hereford, Shrewsbury, Tewkesbury, South Wales, Bristol, and Bath — and one of the most common questions we receive is:

What’s the difference between a RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey and a RICS Level 3 Building Survey?

Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a RICS Survey?

RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) offers a trusted framework for property inspections. These surveys are divided into levels based on the depth of assessment required.

At WBC Valuations, our most popular options across Herefordshire, Gloucestershire, South West England and South Wales include:

• Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey

• Level 3 Building Survey (previously known as a Full Structural Survey)

Let’s break them down.

RICS level 3 Surveys are more suited to older and listed properties such as those in central Tewkesbury.

Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey (RICS Level 2)

Best for:

• Modern homes in reasonable condition

• Properties built after 1900

• Flats or conventional properties in areas like Hereford, Tewkesbury, or Bath

Includes:

• Visual inspection of the interior, exterior, roof space and accessible areas

• Assessment of key issues such as damp, structural movement or timber defects

• Clear ‘traffic light’ condition ratings

• Optional market valuation and insurance rebuild cost

• General advice on maintenance and repairs

Limitations:

• No invasive inspection or testing

• Not suitable for older or significantly altered buildings

Ideal for:Buyers looking for peace of mind when purchasing a well-maintained, standard property in places like Shrewsbury, Hereford, or South Wales.

Level 3 Building Survey (RICS Level 3)

Best for:

• Older or listed buildings

• Properties with visible defects or complex layouts

• Homes in poor condition or in need of renovation

Includes:

• Extensive, in-depth inspection of all accessible elements

• Analysis of structure, materials, potential hidden defects and deterioration

• Detailed reporting with repair recommendations and future risks

• Tailored advice on maintenance, budgeting and major repairs

• Optional market valuation (on request)

Limitations:

• No specialist testing (such as electrics or drains — arranged separately)

Ideal for: Buyers of older homes in South Wales or Tewkesbury, rural properties around Hereford, or historic city buildings in Cheltenham, Bath or Bristol.

Level 2 RICS Surveys are suitable for modern building such as those found in Newport city center

Which Survey Should You Choose?

Property Type	Recommended Survey
New-build or modern home	RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey
Standard flat or house in good condition	RICS Level 2 Survey
Period property or listed building	RICS Level 3 Building Survey
Renovation project or visibly damaged property	RICS Level 3 Survey

Still unsure which is right for your property in Hereford, Shrewsbury, Tewkesbury, South Wales, Bristol or Bath? Contact our expert team — we’re happy to advise.

Why Choose WBC Valuations Ltd?

• RICS-accredited surveyors with local knowledge of Herefordshire, the West Country, and South Wales

• Fast turnaround times and detailed, jargon-free reports

• Honest, professional advice tailored to your property and plans

  
  

Book Your RICS Survey Today

Whether you’re buying a Georgian terrace in Bath, a rural cottage near Hereford, or a city flat in Bristol, WBC Valuations Ltd delivers reliable, RICS-compliant surveys you can trust.

Drone surveys can help with hard to reach areas on building surveys