Survey levels
RICS Level 1 survey: the concise option
Level 1 is intended for conventional homes made from common building materials that appear to be in good condition.
What it is designed to do
A Level 1 report describes the property’s condition, flags risks and potential legal issues, and highlights serious or urgent visible defects. RICS describes it as the least detailed of its three Home Survey levels.
What it normally does not do
It generally does not provide the repair and maintenance advice included at Level 2, or the detailed analysis of construction, defects and repair options provided at Level 3. The inspection is visual and has agreed limitations.
When it may fit
- The home is conventional in type and layout.
- It uses common building materials.
- It appears to be in good condition.
- You do not have significant concerns about alterations or defects.
When to consider more detail
Discuss Level 2 or Level 3 if the home is older, altered, unusual, run-down, or if you want advice about repairs and ongoing maintenance. A surveyor should confirm the appropriate service after hearing about the property and your concerns.
Use the survey-level selector →
Source: RICS consumer guide to Home Surveys. Reviewed 9 September 2026.