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RICS Level 2 Home Survey in Blackpool, Fylde Coast, Preston and Lancashire

Independent property advice before you buy

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial commitments most people make. A RICS Level 2 Home Survey gives you clear, independent advice on the visible condition of the property before you commit to purchase.

 

At Illuminati Surveyors, we provide RICS Level 2 Home Surveys for home buyers across Blackpool, the Fylde Coast, Preston and Lancashire. Your survey is carried out by Simon, an experienced local residential surveyor, giving you practical advice from enquiry through to report.

 

A Level 2 Survey is often suitable for conventional houses, flats and bungalows that appear to be built from common materials and are in reasonable condition. It is designed to help you understand visible defects, maintenance issues and matters that may require further investigation before exchange of contracts.

 

Bespoke surveys for enlightened buyers.

Call Simon To Discuss Your Requirements: 01253 366201

What is a RICS Level 2 Home Survey?

A RICS Level 2 Home Survey, previously known as a HomeBuyer Report, is a visual, non-invasive inspection and report on the general condition of a property.

 

The survey helps you understand:

 

  • the general condition of the main building elements;
  • visible defects and areas of concern;
  • issues that may require urgent repair or further investigation;
  • risks to the building, grounds or occupants;
  • matters your legal adviser may need to check; and
  • whether a more detailed Level 3 Building Survey may be more appropriate.

 

The report uses clear condition ratings to help you identify the seriousness of defects and where attention may be required.

RICS Level 2 Survey
RICS Level 2 Survey

When is a Level 2 Survey suitable?

A Level 2 Home Survey is usually most appropriate where the property is:

 

  • a conventional house, flat or bungalow;

 

  • built using common forms of construction;

 

  • in reasonable overall condition;

 

  • not obviously extensively altered;

 

  • not unusually large or complex; and

 

  • not obviously in need of major refurbishment.

 

It may be suitable for many modern and traditionally built homes where the buyer wants more information than a mortgage valuation but does not require the depth of a Level 3 Building Survey.

When might a Level 3 Survey be better?


A Level 2 Survey is not always the right choice. A more detailed RICS Level 3 Building Survey may be more suitable where the property is:

 

  • older or significantly extended;

 

  • visibly altered or poorly maintained;

 

  • of unusual construction;

 

  • affected by significant cracking, movement or dampness;

 

  • likely to need major repairs or refurbishment;

 

  • difficult to inspect; or

 

  • a property where you want a more detailed explanation of defects and repair implications.

 

If, based on the information available before inspection, a Level 2 Survey does not appear appropriate, we will explain this and may recommend a Level 3 Survey instead.

 

This helps protect you from choosing a survey level that may not provide enough detail for the property you are buying.

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What does the inspection include?


The Level 2 inspection is visual and non-invasive. Where safe and reasonably accessible, the surveyor will inspect the main parts of the property, including:

 

  • roofs, chimneys and rainwater goods;
  • main walls, windows and external joinery;
  • internal walls, ceilings, floors and stairs;
  • roof spaces where accessible;
  • visible parts of services;
  • dampness indicators and visible ventilation issues;
  • garages and permanent outbuildings where applicable;
  • external areas within the property boundary; and
  • risks that may require specialist advice.

 

The inspection does not involve opening up the structure, lifting fitted floor coverings, moving heavy furniture, testing services, or exposing concealed areas.

 

Where something cannot be inspected, or where further investigation is needed, this will be explained in the report.

What will the report tell me?

Your Level 2 report will give you a clear summary of the property’s condition and highlight matters you should consider before purchase.

 

The report will typically include:

 

  • a summary of significant defects;
  • condition ratings for key building elements;
  • visible repair and maintenance issues;
  • advice on urgent matters;
  • recommendations for further investigations where needed;
  • risks to the building, grounds and people;
  • legal matters to raise with your conveyancer; and
  • clear photographs to support important findings.

 

The aim is to help you make a more informed decision before you exchange contracts.

Why choose Illuminati Surveyors?

 

Illuminati Surveyors is an independent RICS-regulated residential surveying firm based in Blackpool and serving home buyers across the Fylde Coast, Preston and Lancashire.

 

When you instruct us, you deal directly with the surveyor. Your survey is not passed around a call centre or handled by a large panel firm. You receive practical, local advice from someone who regularly inspects homes across the area.

 

We are independent and do not pay estate agent referral fees. Our role is to provide clear, impartial advice to help you understand the property before you buy.

 

What you can expect

  • Independent RICS-regulated advice
  • A clear and structured report
  • Practical explanations, not unnecessary jargon
  • Local knowledge of Blackpool, Fylde Coast, Preston and Lancashire property
  • Direct contact with your surveyor
  • A post-survey discussion where required

Areas covered


We provide RICS Level 2 Home Surveys across Blackpool, the Fylde Coast, Preston and wider Lancashire, including:

 

Blackpool, Lytham, St Annes, Ansdell, Wrea Green, Poulton-le-Fylde, Thornton-Cleveleys, Fleetwood, Carleton, Kirkham, Wesham, Warton, Preston, Fulwood, Cottam, Penwortham, Broughton, Chorley, Buckshaw Village and surrounding areas.

 

If you are unsure whether we cover the property location, please get in touch.

Is a Level 2 Survey the same as a mortgage valuation?


No. A mortgage valuation is primarily for the lender’s purposes. It is not a detailed survey for you as the buyer.

 

A Level 2 Home Survey is prepared for you. It gives you independent advice on the visible condition of the property and highlights defects, risks and issues that may affect your decision to proceed.

Should I have a survey before exchange of contracts?


Yes. A survey should ideally be carried out before exchange of contracts. This gives you time to consider the findings, obtain further advice if needed, discuss matters with your conveyancer, and make an informed decision before you become legally committed to the purchase.

Frequently asked questions


Is a Level 2 Survey suitable for all homes?

 

No. A Level 2 Survey is usually suitable for conventional properties that appear to be in reasonable condition. If the property is older, altered, visibly defective, unusually constructed or in poor condition, a Level 3 Building Survey may be more appropriate.

Does the survey include a valuation?

 

This page relates to the RICS Level 2 Home Survey service. If you require valuation advice, please ask before instruction so that we can confirm whether this is available and appropriate for your circumstances.

Will the surveyor test the electrics, gas or heating?

 

No. Services are visually inspected only. The surveyor does not test gas, electrical, heating, drainage or other service installations. Where appropriate, the report may recommend further checks by suitably qualified specialists, such as an electrician, Gas Safe engineer or drainage contractor.

Will the survey identify damp?

 

The surveyor will look for visible signs of dampness and may use a moisture meter to help assess relative moisture readings where appropriate. A Level 2 Survey does not involve opening up walls, floors or concealed areas, and further investigation may be recommended where dampness is suspected.

Will I be able to speak to the surveyor afterwards?

 

Yes. We understand that a report can raise important questions. Where required, we offer a post-survey discussion so that you can better understand the main findings and next steps.

Request a Level 2 Survey quote

 

If you are buying a property in Blackpool, the Fylde Coast, Preston or Lancashire, a RICS Level 2 Home Survey can help you understand the property before you commit.

 

Contact Illuminati Surveyors today for an independent Level 2 Survey quote.

 

 

Illuminati Surveyors
Independent RICS-regulated residential surveyors

Bespoke surveys for enlightened buyers.

Call Simon To Discuss Your Requirements: 01253 366201
RPSA
Connor Burdett
Connor Burdett
Blackpool
As a first time buyer going through the house buying process has been one of the most stressful things I've done. As part of that process you'll more than likely be looking at getting a RICS survey done at some point during. Do yourself a favour and go with Illuminati Surveyors. Simon was able to get me booked in within a week when I was being quoted 1+ months for a survey and the price was very competitive. Due to some unforeseen circumstances (with the house, not Simon) he had to go back multiple times to get the survey done which he was more than happy to do for us at no additional cost.The survey itself, when it came through, was comprehensive and well laid out. Simon kindly went through the key points over the phone as well to make it easier to digest. I can't fault the service from Illuminati. If I ever need a survey again, I'll be going through them. Thank you Simon. 5*!
Alex
Alex
Blackpool
Super efficient local surveyor. I enquired on Wednesday and the survey was carried out on the Friday! The report is really detailed and good at explaining things that I have never come across before. This has definitely been a worthwhile service and I would recommend Illuminati Surveyors to other prospective buyers.
A Rutter
A Rutter
Poulton-le-Fylde
The quality of service was excellent. Simon was very helpful throughout the process. The report was very detailed and we could speak on the phone to discuss it. Considering the very detailed report and prompt service we found his services very good value for money.
Jon Robinson
Jon Robinson
Poulton-le-Fylde
Can't fault this company at all. Great communication pre-survey, very quick availability and competitive pricing. Afterwards I promptly received a very detailed Level 2 Survey. Would recommend and use again.
Dave Tenant
Dave Tenant
Poulton-le-Fylde
5 Star Illuminati Surveyors.A family member recommended Illuminati Surveyors. They carried out a Home Buyer survey for us, and the whole process was faultless. The excellent report gave us the confidence to commit to the purchase. Simon, the surveyor, was excellent and took the time to answer our questions. We would definitely recommend Illuminati Surveyors to other home buyers.
LR
LR
Little Eccleston
Thankyou Simon for a very detailed and comprehensive survey . Highly recommended .Date of experience: 20 September 2024
JM
JM
Blackpool
Illuminati experience with surveyors I recently hired illuminati surveyors for a project, and I couldn’t be more impressed with there professionalism and expertise, from the moment I contacted them to the completion of the survey, they exceeded all expectations, not only knowledgeable but extremely efficient. They completed the survey in record time without compromising on accuracy, their communication throughout the process was excellent, they kept me updated at every step ensuring that I was informed and satisfied with their progress. Overall, I highly recommend the illuminati surveyors to anyone in need of top notch surveying services. Their commitment to excellence and attention to detail truly set them apart, I will definitely be using their services again in the future.Date of experience: 02 April 2024
Nicola
Nicola
Fleetwood
I received great service from Simon, he took the time to phone me and talk me through the process of the survey and completion. I received a thorough level three survey. I would highly recommend.
Mel Whiteside
Mel Whiteside
Fleetwood
Attention to detail, brilliant service, quick response. Would highly recommend.
A Felix
A Felix
Blackpool
Very reliable and gets the job done on time. I would definitely go to him if I need another survey. Plus his reports are so detailed and I got it within a week.
Mrs C Sola
Mrs C Sola
Fleetwood
Thankyou to Simon for undertaking our Survey. It was very well detailed and thorough with photos of problems and recommendations in the property and easy to comprehend. I would definitely recommend him to everyone
Charlie Duerden
Charlie Duerden
Blackpool
Would highly recommend. We paid for a level 2 survey on our 3 bed semi as first time buyers. Simon was extremely helpful and friendly. He walked us through the process as we had no idea and provided us with an extremely in depth survey of our property which we have now bought. He really didn’t leave a stone unturned. The price was extremely good for a level 2 survey, miles better then the quotes we got from bigger companies and we more than got our moneys worth. Great service. Thanks Simon👍🏻
Liam Thornborough
Liam Thornborough
Lytham
We used Illuminati Surveyors / Simon for a Level 3 Building Survey for buying our first house and were extremely impressed with the service provided.The report was produced with immense detail, highlighting both urgent issues and smaller observations that gave us a clear and comprehensive picture of the property’s condition. As first-time buyers, this level of insight was invaluable.The availability of the surveyor was prompt which is what we needed, and handled the organisation with the seller’s estate agent professionally and efficiently, which really helped move things along smoothly.What stood out to us the most was the follow-up support — they kindly arranged a call to go through the report with us and took the time to answer our questions in detail without any feeling of judgement, helping us understand key elements of the survey in a way first time buyers would understand and appreciate.We’re grateful for their time and expertise, and would recommend them to anyone looking for an experience, reliable, responsive, and professional surveyor.Thank you again!
Lucy N
Lucy N
Kirkham
I cant thank Simon enough for the surveys he completed for me and my family. He found major problems with my first house i found and stopped us from making a huge mistake as first time buyers and i cant thank him enough. We have now found a much better home and Simons survey was absolutely spot on. Thankyou so very much. Lucy
Susan H
Susan H
Fleetwood
We have just had a Level 2 survey done and I can honestly say the service Simon provides is excellent. The survey report was extensive and so much time and effort must go in to creating such an extensive report. Simon provided us with so much information not only just about how the property is at this moment in time, but he also provided invaluable information regarding future proofing our new home. Although the report is extensive and extremely detailed. it is presented in such a way that even we could understand and set out in sections that are clear and concise. The report was followed up by a phone call with Simon in which he spent time patiently going through the report and answering our many questions and concerns. The survey surpassed my expectations and has been invaluable in helping us make informed decisions prior to exchanging contracts. First class service.
Storm Isles
Storm Isles
Couldn't have asked for a better experience. Simon booked me in quickly, kept me well informed about the report time line and put my mind at rest about many things. The post survey chat was invaluable and really helped my understanding as a first time buyer. He was also cheaper than the nationwide companies I was looking at, and being local was an added bonus as he was able to fit me in quickly. Very professional. Highly recommend.
Joanne Wardman
Joanne Wardman
Blackpool
I cannot thank Simon enough for the survey he undertook, without this I would have purchased a house that could have cost me £1000s. He picked up on some very costly defects which I could not have spotted myself! Very reasonably priced, professional & knowledgeable with a detailed report including photographs, needless to say I will be using his services for my next purchase…..thank you again Simon.
Claire Parker
Claire Parker
Blackpool
We recently used Simon on a house purchase, and can’t recommend him highly enough. He was thorough, professional and incredibly knowledgeable. Simon picked up several issues that we would never have spotted ourselves and clearly explained what they meant in practical terms with a post survey phone call. Thanks to his detailed report and advice, we avoided potentially costly mistakes and went into the purchase fully informed. It’s rare to find someone so approachable and honest in this field - Simon genuinely had our best interests at heart. If you’re considering buying a property, having Simon on your side could save you a lot of money and stress.
Miss Stonelake
Miss Stonelake
Blackpool
I can't recommend Simon highly enough.From the first phone call, everything was organised, professional and straightforward. Communication was excellent throughout, and booking the survey couldn't have been easier.The Level 2 survey was unbelievably thorough. Having since compared it with reports friends have received from other surveyors, Simon's was in a different league. The level of detail, the explanations and the care that had clearly gone into it were outstanding. Nthing felt rushed or overlooked.As a first-time buyer, I went into this not really understanding what I was looking at. Simon then spent around half an hour on the phone with me, with my report open in front of him, patiently talking me through every question I had. He explained everything so clearly that I came away with a proper understanding of the property and complete confidence in the report. At no point did I feel rushed, and nothing was ever too much trouble.Simon is incredibly meticulous, knowledgeable and generous with his time. It's obvious he genuinely cares about the quality of his work and making sure his clients understand what they're reading. I'm so grateful for all the time and effort he's put in, both with the survey itself and the support afterwards.Very, very highly recommended. If you're looking for a surveyor who goes above and beyond, Simon is the one to use for sure!
Illuminati Surveyors
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