RICS Home Survey Standard
At Mickleson Home Surveys, all our residential property surveys are conducted in accordance with the RICS Home Survey Standard. This professional standard ensures you receive a consistent, high-quality service that meets the rigorous requirements set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
What is the RICS Home Survey Standard?
The RICS Home Survey Standard is a comprehensive framework that sets minimum expectations for residential property surveys across the UK. Introduced in March 2021, it replaced previous guidance and created a unified approach to home surveys, ensuring:
- Consistent quality across all survey types
- Clear benchmarks for professional service
- Transparent communication with clients
- Proper qualifications and experience requirements for surveyors
- Standardised reporting formats
Why the RICS Standard Matters to You
When you choose an RICS surveyor who follows these standards, you benefit from:
Professional Expertise
Your surveyor must demonstrate appropriate qualifications, experience, and local knowledge. They must understand the construction methods, materials, and common issues found in properties throughout the areas in which they operate.
Clear Service Levels
The standard defines three distinct levels of survey, ensuring you can choose the right service for your property and circumstances:
Level 1 – RICS Home Survey Level One
A basic ‘traffic light’ condition report suitable for modern, conventional properties in good condition. This provides a cost-effective professional opinion on the property’s condition.
Level 2 – RICS Home Survey Level Two
A more detailed inspection with advice on repairs and maintenance. Suitable for conventional properties in reasonable condition. This is the most popular choice for typical residential properties.
Level 3 – RICS Home Survey Level Three
A comprehensive structural survey for older, complex, or altered properties. This provides detailed analysis of the property’s construction and condition, with advice on repairs and maintenance.
Key Requirements of the Standard
The RICS Home Survey Standard ensures your surveyor will:
Before the Survey
- Discuss your specific needs and concerns
- Explain the different survey options clearly
- Provide transparent pricing
- Issue clear terms of engagement
- Declare any conflicts of interest
During the Inspection
- Use appropriate equipment including moisture meters, binoculars, and ladders
- Follow consistent inspection methodologies
- Record findings comprehensively
- Inspect all accessible areas safely
- Consider environmental factors and local issues
In the Report
- Provide property-specific findings (not generic text)
- Use clear, non-technical language
- Include condition ratings where appropriate
- Highlight risks to occupants
- Identify legal matters for your solicitor
- Provide energy efficiency observations
- Make proportionate recommendations for further investigation
After the Survey
- Discuss the findings with you
- Answer your questions
- Maintain proper records
- Provide access to complaints procedures
Quality Assurance and Protection
The RICS Home Survey Standard provides multiple layers of protection:
- Professional Indemnity Insurance: All RICS members must hold appropriate insurance
- Complaints Procedures: Access to formal complaints handling and independent redress
- Continuous Development: Surveyors must update their skills and knowledge throughout their careers
- Regulatory Oversight: RICS monitors compliance with standards
Choosing the Right Survey Level
The RICS standard helps ensure you receive appropriate advice about which survey level suits your needs:
- Modern properties (less than 30 years old): Often suitable for Level 1 or 2
- Traditional properties (30-150 years): Usually require Level 2 or 3
- Older or complex properties: Level 3 recommended
- Listed buildings or those in poor condition: Level 3 essential
Our Commitment to RICS Standards
At Mickleson Home Surveys, we:
- Follow all requirements of the RICS Home Survey Standard
- Maintain comprehensive professional indemnity insurance
- Participate in continuous professional development
- Provide clear, jargon-free reports
- Offer post-survey support and guidance
- Operate transparent complaints procedures
