Buy with Confidence – Get a Professional Home Survey
It can be tempting to skip steps like a home survey when buying a property – but doing so could lead to unexpected issues and costly repairs down the line.
A RICS-accredited home survey gives you a clear, expert view of the property’s condition, helping you make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.
At Hogbens, we offer a range of surveys to suit different property types, budgets, and concerns.
Level 1 RICS Home Survey / Condition Report
Our RICS Level 1 Condition Survey provides a high-level overview of a property’s general condition, carried out by RICS-qualified Chartered Surveyors. Ideal for homebuyers, landlords and property investors seeking a quick, affordable building survey. A level 1 survey is suitable for modern, well-maintained homes.
✓ Overview of structure including roof, walls, floors and drainage
✓ Identification of urgent defects and maintenance concerns
✓ Visual-only assessment by experienced surveyors
✓ Straightforward risk commentary and compliance insights
✓ Fast turnaround to support early-stage decision-making
Level 2 RICS Homebuyer Survey
The RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey offers a detailed inspection with optional property valuation. Suited to conventional homes, it supports confident purchasing with informed, jargon-free advice.
✓ In-depth examination of roof coverings, walls, windows and floors
✓ Review of heating, drainage and other built-in services
✓ Identification of defects, repair costs and maintenance needs
✓ Optional RICS valuation for mortgage and financial planning
✓ Accessible reporting designed for everyday buyers
Level 3 RICS Building Survey
Our most detailed residential survey, ideal for older, larger or altered properties. The RICS Level 3 Building Survey provides a comprehensive report from roof to foundation.
✓ Thorough investigation of structural elements and materials
✓ Identification of hidden defects, decay and previous alterations
✓ Floor-by-floor breakdown with clear remedial advice
✓ Recommendations on repairs, estimated costs and timelines
✓ Informed guidance to support long-term ownership decisions
Residential Surveys: Frequently Asked Questions
At Hogbens Property Services, we believe in transparency, simplicity, and equipping our clients with the information they need. Below are answers to the most common questions about our residential survey services
1. What is a residential property survey?
A residential property survey is a detailed inspection carried out by a qualified RICS surveyor to assess the condition of a property. It identifies defects, structural concerns, and maintenance issues—helping buyers make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs.
2. Which RICS survey do I need: Level 1, 2 or 3?
- Level 1 is suitable for modern, well-maintained homes and provides a high-level overview of condition.
- Level 2 (Homebuyer Survey) is best for standard properties and includes advice on significant issues, maintenance, and optional valuation.
- Level 3 (Building Survey) is the most in-depth option—ideal for older, larger, or altered homes. It includes detailed commentary on condition, defects, and repair options.
3. Do I need a survey if I’m getting a mortgage valuation?
Yes. A mortgage valuation is for the lender’s benefit, not yours. It only confirms whether the property is worth the loan amount—it doesn’t highlight structural issues or repairs. A full survey protects your investment and your peace of mind.
4. What are common issues found in surveys?
Typical findings include damp, roof defects, timber decay, poor insulation, structural movement (e.g. settlement or subsidence), and unauthorised alterations. Spotting these early helps avoid costly surprises down the line.
5. How long does a home survey take?
Most surveys take between 1 to 4 hours depending on property size and complexity. Your completed report is usually delivered within 3 to 7 working days.
6. Can I attend the survey?
We’re happy to meet you at the property—but we kindly ask that you attend after we’ve completed the inspection to allow us to work without distraction. We’ll gladly walk you through the findings afterwards. Please note that we do not control access to the property; we advise all clients to arrange their attendance through the estate agent directly.
7. What if the survey uncovers serious problems?
We’ll explain any major issues clearly and provide pragmatic advice on next steps, including repair recommendations. Many clients use this information to renegotiate the purchase price or request remedial work before exchange
8. Are your surveyors fully qualified?
Yes. All our surveys are carried out by experienced, RICS-accredited Chartered Surveyors with specialist training in building defects, pathology and reporting.
9. Do you offer surveys for flats or leasehold properties?
Absolutely. We regularly survey leasehold flats and apartments, assessing the individual property along with shared structures, services, and responsibilities detailed in the lease.
10. Do you require payment up front?
No. We don’t believe in charging for work that hasn’t yet been done. Payment is only due when your completed survey report is issued. A cancellation fee may apply only if the booking is cancelled within 48 hours of the scheduled inspection.
11. Do you arrange access to the property for the survey?
Yes. We manage access arrangements directly with the estate agent or vendor on your behalf. Once you’ve instructed us, we’ll handle all the coordination and keep you informed of the scheduled date and time.
12. Why should I get a property survey if a mortgage valuation has already been done?
Many mortgage valuations today are carried out using automated software or limited ‘drive-by’ assessments—meaning a qualified surveyor may never inspect the property in person. These valuations are for the lender’s benefit and may miss critical defects. A full RICS survey gives you an expert view of the property’s condition and helps avoid costly surprises.
13. Can you arrange checks on gas, electrics, or other services?
Yes – we can arrange independent inspections by trusted third-party contractors, including Gas Safe registered engineers and NICEIC-certified electricians. While these professionals are not employed by Hogbens, we’re happy to coordinate their inspections on your behalf if additional service checks are recommended or requested.
14. Can I get a survey before putting my home on the market?
Yes – and it can be a smart strategy. Pre-sale surveys help identify potential issues before your property goes to market, giving you the chance to carry out remedial work or prepare honest disclosures. It helps avoid last-minute complications during the sales process and can provide confidence to prospective buyers.
15. Do you pay or receive referral fees?
Yes – we work with a small number of trusted estate agents, solicitors and mortgage brokers who may receive referral fees when clients are introduced to us. These are always disclosed clearly to the client. We also offer small thank-you referrals to past clients. Referral arrangements never influence our advice – we always remain fully independent and impartial.
16. Can you arrange a structural engineer’s inspection if needed?
Certainly. If we identify issues that require deeper structural assessment, we can coordinate an independent inspection with a qualified structural engineer. We don’t employ these engineers directly, but we work with trusted professionals and handle the arrangements on your behalf to ensure a smooth process.
17. Can you help me decide which survey is right for my property?
Definitely. We’re always happy to talk through your situation and recommend the best option. The most expensive survey isn’t always necessary—it’s about choosing the right level of detail for your property and your plans.
18. Are you regulated and professionally qualified?
Yes – Hogbens Property Services is fully regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Our Principal Director holds MRICS status, meaning they have undergone extensive training, assessment, and continuous professional development to deliver surveying services to the highest standards.
19. What’s the difference between AssocRICS and MRICS?
AssocRICS is an associate membership for surveyors with relevant training and assessed experience. MRICS is a full chartered membership—awarded only after rigorous professional training, the RICS Assessment of Professional Competence (APC), and several years of practical experience. Our lead surveyor holds MRICS, ensuring a high level of expertise and accountability.
20. Do you use a drone during your surveys?
Yes – when requested, we can include drone imaging as part of your survey. Drone technology is especially useful for inspecting roofs, chimneys and other high-level areas where access is limited. Our pilot is fully certified to operate drones over 25kg, providing accurate, high-resolution imagery to support our findings.
21. Do you offer an express survey service?
Standard report turnaround time is 5 working days. We also offer an optional express service where we aim to deliver your report within 3 working days for an additional fee. Availability may vary depending on workload and location.
22. What areas do you cover?
We currently cover North Manchester, Trafford, Sale, Stockport, South Manchester, Cheshire, North Staffordshire, West Derbyshire, and the Peak District. We’re always expanding, so if your area isn’t listed, please get in touch – we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
Looking to get a Home Survey Quotation?
If you have any questions you can call us on 01625 242222 / 0161 477 7770 or complete the form on our contact page and we will be in touch as soon as possible.
