RICS Level 1 Survey (Conditions Report) in Surrey
Reinstatement Cost Assessment (Fire Insurance Valuation) in Surrey
A RICS Level 1 Survey, also known as a Conditions Report, is the most basic RICS home survey available. It provides a clear traffic light overview of a property’s visible condition on the day of inspection.
Designed for conventional and relatively modern homes in reasonable order, a Level 1 survey focuses on identifying significant defects and urgent risks. It does not include a valuation or repair cost advice. If you are buying a newer property in Surrey and want professional reassurance before exchange, a RICS Level 1 survey is often the appropriate starting point.
What does a RICS Level 1 Survey include?
A RICS Level 1 survey involves a visual inspection of the property and a structured written report using the RICS condition rating system.
The on-site inspection
Your surveyor will:
- Carry out a visual inspection of the interior and exterior of the main building
- Inspect permanent outbuildings where accessible
- Assess boundary walls, fences and gates
- Bring ladders up to 3 metres, lighting and a damp meter
- Examine visible surfaces and accessible roof spaces
The surveyor does not lift floorboards, move heavy furniture, remove fitted carpets or open up the building fabric. Services such as gas, electricity, water and drainage are not tested, only visually inspected where visible.
The inspection typically takes around 2 hours depending on the size and layout of the property.
The written report
The report includes:
- Condition ratings for each key element using the RICS traffic light system
- Identification of urgent or serious defects
- Advice on areas requiring further investigation
- Basic legal matters to raise with your solicitor, such as evidence of alterations or access rights
The traffic light rating system
Each element is given one of the following ratings:
Condition 1 (green): no repair needed now, routine maintenance only
Condition 2 (amber): repair or replacement needed but not urgent
Condition 3 (red): serious defect requiring urgent attention
NI (Not Inspected): element could not be inspected
This structure allows you to see quickly where attention is required.
If you would like advice on whether a Level 1 survey is sufficient for your property, contact us.
What a Level 1 Survey does NOT include
Understanding the limits of a RICS Level 1 Conditions Report is important.
It does not include:
- A property valuation
- Reinstatement cost for insurance
- Repair cost estimates
- Testing of services
- Invasive inspection
- Specialist reports such as damp, timber or asbestos investigations
A mortgage valuation arranged by your lender is not a survey. It is carried out for the bank to confirm the property is suitable security for the loan. It does not provide detailed condition advice for you as the buyer.
If you require a valuation alongside your survey, you may need a RICS property valuation or a higher-level survey.
For clarification on scope before booking, get in touch.
Is a Level 1 Conditions Report right for my property?
A RICS Level 1 survey is generally suitable for:
- Conventional houses, flats and bungalows
- Properties built with standard materials
- New-build and recently constructed homes
- Homes in reasonable condition
- Properties with no significant alterations
It is usually not suitable for:
- Properties over 50 years old where more detail is required
- Non-standard construction such as concrete, steel frame or thatch
- Homes with known structural movement
- Significantly altered or extended buildings
For these situations, a RICS Level 2 Homebuyers Survey is often more appropriate. Older or complex properties may require a RICS Level 3 Building Survey.
If you are unsure which survey level is right, our team can advise based on the property’s age, construction and condition. We have been surveying homes across Surrey since 1985 and understand the differences between modern developments in areas such as Reigate and Redhill and older housing stock in Guildford and Dorking.
To discuss your property specifically, contact us.
Level 1 vs Level 2 vs Level 3 - which survey do I need?
RICS-regulated surveys are offered at three levels. The right choice depends on the property’s age, construction and overall condition.
| Feature | Level 1 (Conditions Report) | Level 2 (Homebuyers Survey) | Level 3 (Building Survey) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | New builds, conventional homes under 10 years old | Most standard properties | Older, complex or extended properties |
| Condition ratings | Traffic light system | Traffic light with detailed notes | Full narrative report |
| Valuation included | No | Optional add-on | Optional add-on |
| Repair cost advice | No | No | Yes |
| Services inspection | Visual only | Visual only | Visual only |
| Invasive inspection | No | No | No |
| Legal issues flagged | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Typical report length | Short | Medium | Long |
For most buyers purchasing a conventional property built within the last 100 years, a RICS Level 2 Homebuyers Survey provides greater detail and is often recommended.
For older, listed or heavily altered buildings, a RICS Level 3 Building Survey offers the most detailed assessment.
If you are comparing options and would like guidance, get in touch.
How the process works
Step 1: Request a quote
Provide the property address, type and approximate age. A confirmed fee is issued.
Step 2: Confirm the booking
Once instructed, access is arranged with the seller or agent.
Step 3: On-site inspection
Your RICS-qualified surveyor attends the property for approximately 1 to 2 hours.
Step 4: Report delivery
The written report is delivered within the agreed working days after inspection.
Step 5: Follow-up discussion
If you have questions, the surveyor is available to discuss the findings.
To begin the process, please get a quote.
Why choose
Brian Gale Surveyors?
- Established in 1985 with decades of experience surveying properties across Surrey
- RICS-regulated firm operating to recognised professional standards
- Local knowledge of Surrey housing stock, from Victorian terraces to modern estates
- Clear, structured reports written in plain English
Recent client feedback reflects the value of early clarity:
“The Level 1 survey highlighted roof issues we would not have noticed. We were able to renegotiate before exchange and avoid unexpected expense.”
For professional advice from experienced local surveyors, contact Brian Gale Surveyors.
RICS Level 1 Survey (Conditions Report) FAQs
Is a RICS Level 1 Survey the same as a Conditions Report?
Yes. RICS updated its survey naming in 2021. The survey previously known as a Conditions Report is now officially called a RICS Home Survey Level 1. The two terms refer to the same product and are used interchangeably.
What is the difference between a Level 1 and a Level 2 survey?
A Level 1 Survey provides a basic overview of a property’s visible condition using traffic light ratings. It does not include a valuation or repair cost advice. A Level 2 Homebuyers Survey provides more detailed commentary on defects and can include a market valuation as an add-on.
Does a Level 1 Conditions Report include a property valuation?
No. A Level 1 Survey focuses on condition only. If you require a valuation, a higher-level survey or separate RICS property valuation may be appropriate.
Is a conditions report the same as a mortgage valuation?
No. A mortgage valuation is carried out for the lender and is not a survey. A RICS Level 1 Conditions Report is an independent survey commissioned by you as the buyer.
What does the traffic light system mean in a conditions report?
Each element is rated Condition 1, 2 or 3 to reflect severity. Condition 1 requires no immediate action, Condition 2 requires repair or replacement, and Condition 3 indicates urgent attention is needed.
How long does a RICS conditions report take?
The inspection typically takes 1 to 2 hours depending on the size of the property. The written report is delivered within the agreed working days after inspection.
What happens if the Level 1 survey finds problems?
If issues are identified, you may renegotiate the purchase price, request repairs, commission specialist investigations or reconsider proceeding. Your surveyor will discuss the findings with you so you can decide your next step with confidence.
