RICS Survey Cost
Find out what affects the cost of a property survey, how Level 2 and Level 3 survey prices differ and how to get an accurate quote for the property you are buying.
How much does a RICS survey cost?
There is no single fixed price for a property survey because the cost depends on the property itself, the survey level and the amount of reporting required.
What determines the cost of a property survey?
Survey prices are typically influenced by the size, value, age, type, condition and complexity of the property, together with whether a Level 2 Home Survey or Level 3 Building Survey is most appropriate.
A conventional property in reasonable condition may be suitable for a Level 2 Home Survey , while an older, altered, extended or more complex property may benefit from a Level 3 Building Survey .
Dunford Penrose Surveyors carries out the same level of inspection for both survey types. The main difference is the depth of the reporting. Our Level 3 Building Survey provides additional detail and estimated repair costs where appropriate.
What affects RICS survey cost?
Survey costs vary because no two properties are exactly the same. The information required to prepare an appropriate report can differ considerably between a straightforward modern home and an older or extensively altered building.
Survey level
Level 2 and Level 3 surveys have different reporting requirements. Level 3 provides additional detail and estimated repair costs where appropriate.
Property size and value
Larger or higher-value properties can require more inspection and reporting time, which may affect the cost of the survey.
Age of the property
Older properties can present more complex condition issues and may require more detailed reporting.
Condition and visible defects
Existing signs of damp, cracking, deterioration or other defects can make more detailed reporting appropriate.
Extensions and alterations
Extended, converted or substantially altered properties may contain more areas that require consideration during the inspection and report.
Specific concerns
If you already have concerns about the roof, damp, movement or other issues, these can influence the survey option recommended.
Level 2 and Level 3 survey cost differences
Buyers comparing RICS survey costs are often deciding whether they need a Level 2 Home Survey or a Level 3 Building Survey.
With Dunford Penrose Surveyors, both survey types involve the same level of inspection. The difference is primarily in the reporting depth and the additional information provided afterwards.
Level 2 Home Survey
Suitable for many conventional properties in reasonable condition. It provides clear information about visible defects and condition concerns without the additional repair-cost reporting included with Level 3.
Level 3 Building Survey
Better suited to older, larger, altered, extended, unusual or visibly defective properties. The report provides greater detail and includes estimated repair costs where appropriate.
Should you choose a survey based on price alone?
Cost matters, but the cheapest survey is not automatically the most appropriate one for the property.
The purpose of the survey is to help you understand the building before exchange. An older, extensively altered or visibly defective property may justify the additional reporting provided by a Level 3 Building Survey.
Choosing a survey that is appropriate for the property can help you understand potential repair liabilities and decide whether further enquiries or specialist investigation are needed.
What does the survey price include?
The price of the survey covers both the property inspection and preparation of the written report.
- Inspection of visible and accessible areas
- Assessment of property condition and visible defects
- Comments on roofs, walls and external elements
- Visible checks for damp, cracking and deterioration
- Internal observations of accessible areas
- Written reporting explaining key findings
- Recommendations for specialist checks where appropriate
- Estimated repair costs where appropriate on Level 3 reports
How to get an accurate survey cost
The most accurate way to establish the cost is to request a quote for the specific property you are considering.
Useful information can include the property address, type, approximate age, size, purchase price, apparent condition and any concerns you already have following a viewing.
This allows the property and your requirements to be considered before the appropriate survey level and price are confirmed.
More help with property surveys
For guidance on survey types, costs, the buying process and common property defects, visit our Property Survey Help Centre .
RICS Survey Cost FAQs
How much does a RICS survey cost?
The cost varies according to the property and survey type. Factors can include the survey level, property size, value, age, type, condition and complexity.
How much does a RICS Level 2 survey cost?
There is no universal fixed Level 2 survey price. The cost depends on the specific property, including its size, value, age, location and complexity.
How much does a RICS Level 3 survey cost?
Level 3 survey costs also vary by property. The reporting is more detailed and Dunford Penrose Level 3 reports include estimated repair costs where appropriate.
Why does a Level 3 survey cost more than a Level 2 survey?
Both surveys involve the same level of inspection at Dunford Penrose Surveyors. The Level 3 report contains additional detail and estimated repair costs where appropriate, which increases the reporting required.
Is a property survey worth the cost?
A survey can help you understand visible defects, condition risks and potential repair requirements before exchange, giving you more information before committing to the purchase.
How do I get a survey quote?
Request a quote with details of the property you are buying and Dunford Penrose Surveyors can advise on the appropriate survey option and provide a price for that property.
Get a property survey quote
Tell us about the property you are buying and Dunford Penrose Surveyors can recommend an appropriate survey and provide an accurate quote.
