RICS Chartered Surveyors · London

Building
Surveys &
Reports

Level 2 and Level 3 building surveys for London properties. Indicative repair costs included as standard, so you can negotiate with confidence.

4.8/5 Google RICS Regulated Costs Included
Get a Quote Call 020 3432 4033
RICS chartered surveyor conducting a building survey inspection in London
£650+
Level 2 surveys from
Fixed fee + VAT

Why Conduct a Pre-Purchase Survey?

A building survey is one of the most important steps you can take before committing to a property purchase. Here is what it gives you.

Understand the Overall Condition

A clear, independent assessment of the property's condition before you commit to a purchase, covering all accessible parts of the building.

Identify Defects and Their Likely Cost

Know what repairs and maintenance works are required and what they are likely to cost, giving you a basis to renegotiate the purchase price or budget for future works.

Understand the Construction

Understand the age, construction type and materials used in the building, which affects both its ongoing maintenance requirements and its suitability for future alterations.

Identify Previous Alterations

Identify works that have been carried out to the property and whether they were completed correctly, with appropriate consents in place.

Flag Regulatory Breaches

Highlight possible breaches of planning policy or building regulations that could affect your ability to sell, let or alter the property in future.

Types of Survey

We offer a range of surveys to suit different properties and situations. Not sure which is right for you? We are happy to advise before you book.

Level 3 full building survey for older or complex properties

Home Survey Level 3

Our most thorough report. Recommended for older, larger or more complex properties. Includes indicative repair costs as standard.

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Level 2 homebuyer report for modern or well-maintained properties

Home Survey Level 2

A clear, cost-effective assessment for modern or well-maintained properties. Covers key defects and risks without the full depth of a Level 3.

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Pre-auction survey to assess property condition before bidding

Pre-Auction Survey

Buying at auction means no right to withdraw once the hammer falls. A pre-auction survey gives you a clear picture of the property before you bid.

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Snagging survey for new build properties to identify defects

Snagging Survey

New-build properties often carry hidden defects that developers are obliged to fix. We identify issues before you complete so nothing gets overlooked.

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Defect survey to identify cause and remedy of a specific problem

Defect Survey

If a specific problem has come to light, a targeted defect survey identifies the cause, extent and most appropriate course of repair without the cost of a full inspection.

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Level 2 or Level 3 — Which Survey Do You Need?

Both surveys involve a thorough inspection of the property. The difference is in the depth of analysis and the type of property each is designed for.

Homebuyer Report

Level 2 Survey

Best for modern or well-maintained properties in reasonable condition. Covers key defects and risks clearly and concisely.

  • Modern or standard-build properties
  • Properties built after 1960
  • Well-maintained homes in good condition
  • Cost-effective option for lower risk purchases
Full Building Survey

Level 3 Survey

Best for older, larger or more complex properties. Explains what defects are present, why they have occurred, and how to remedy them. Includes indicative repair costs as standard.

  • Properties built before 1960
  • Unusual or non-standard construction
  • Properties you plan to significantly alter
  • Any property in poor or unknown condition

Not sure which level is right for your property? We will tell you honestly before you book.

Call 020 7167 3352

Our Reviews

FAQ

BUILDING SURVEYS

  • A Building Survey is typically carried out before purchase to give buyers a detailed understanding of the property’s condition and highlight any significant issues.

    There are two main types of surveys:

    • Level 2 Survey (Homebuyer Report)

    • Level 3 Survey (Full Building Survey)

    Both involve a thorough inspection, but the Level 3 report provides a more in-depth analysis. Older properties or those with unusual construction generally require a Level 3 survey, while newer or standard-build homes are usually suited to a Level 2 report.

  • A Level 3 Survey is more detailed in explaining what the defects are and why they may have occurred. The Level 3 report will make recommendations on how to repair the identified defects.

    At Terracotta, we go further than the standard L3 and provide indicative costs of repairs for identified defects. This helps our clients renegotiate or budget their maintenance.

  • Building surveys are recommended when…

    • Buying a property

    • Purchasing a property that need significant works done

    • There are questions about the properties’ condition

    • Planning extensions of alterations to a property

    • Buying an older property (built before 1900)

    • Required by your mortgage lender

  • A building survey typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on the complexity of a property. Our reports are returned to the client within 7 working days. For urgent cases, we can often accommodate faster turnaround times.

  • Our Building Survey reports include:

    • An assessment of all accessible parts of the property

    • Identification of defects

    • Recommendations and cost estimates (L3)

    Is there something specific you are looking to be covered in your report? Give us a call and we can accommodate your property needs.

  • We pride ourselves on being competitively priced. Our L2 fees start at £650 + VAT.

    Contact us at 020 7167 3352  for a personalised quote.