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RICS Condition Survey for South East England

Buying a property always comes with a bit of uncertainty, even when the place looks spotless on the first day. A RICS condition survey gives buyers a clear, independent overview of a property’s condition before they commit. At Fitzgerald Surveying Services, we provide RICS home survey Level 1 inspections across South East England for buyers purchasing newer or conventionally built homes in reasonable condition. This condition survey is straightforward, unbiased, and written for buyers, not lenders.

Fast Turnaround

RICS Surveyors

Trusted Advice

Competitive Pricing

Detailed Reports

What is a Level 1 Condition Survey?

A level 1 condition survey is the most basic survey available under the RICS Home Survey Standard. It’s designed to give buyers a professional snapshot of a property’s overall condition without going into the depth of a Level 2 or Level 3 inspection.

This type of condition survey involves a visual inspection of the property carried out by an experienced RICS surveyor. The survey checks the main accessible parts of the home and applies condition ratings to elements like walls, roofs, windows, floors, ceilings, and visible services. The aim is to identify urgent defects, safety concerns, or signs that further investigation may be needed.

A level 1 condition survey does not include repair cost estimates, detailed defect analysis, testing of services, or a market valuation. It’s best suited for standard properties that appear well maintained and don’t show obvious structural concerns.

For buyers who simply want reassurance before exchange, a RICS home survey level 1 offers a sensible starting point without overcomplicating things.

Is a Level 1 Condition Survey Right for Your Property?

Not every property needs a full structural survey. In many cases, a RICS condition survey works perfectly well for straightforward homes that appear to have been looked after properly. The age of the building, how it was built, and whether there are visible warning signs all matter when deciding which survey level makes sense. If the property is older, heavily altered, or showing signs of defects, moving up to a higher level inspection is usually the smarter option. And if you’re unsure, it’s worth speaking to a surveyor before booking anything.

RICS Condition Report Best Suited For

You don’t need a detailed higher level survey for every property. Often, a visual overview of the building condition is enough. You can go for a RICS Level 1 survey if the property checks the following conditions.

Consider a Higher Level RICS Survey Level 2 Or Level 3 If

Sometimes a Level 1 condition survey simply doesn’t give enough detail, especially if you want proper repair guidance before moving forward. A RICS Level 2 Home Survey makes more sense if:

Consider RICS Level 3 Home Survey If

Some properties need much deeper inspection, particularly where structural risks or unusual constructions are involved.
A level 3 home survey is usually more suitable if:

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What’s included in Our RICS Level 1 Condition Survey

Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a professionally prepared property condition report written in plain English. No overcomplicated jargon. No pages of filler. Just clear information that helps you understand what condition the property is actually in and whether there’s anything worth paying attention to before moving ahead. Our condition survey is structured clearly, delivered promptly after inspection, and prepared entirely in the buyer’s interest.

Our condition survey included:

Overall property condition overview
Traffic light condition rating throughout the property
Condition Rating 1 (Green) means no repair needed currently
Condition Rating 2 (Amber) means repairs or maintenance are required
Condition Rating 3 (Red) means serious defects needing urgent attention
Ratings for all accessible inspected elements
Summary of urgent risks and notable concerns
Photographs showing visible defects or concerns
Opportunity to discuss findings directly with your surveyor
Opportunity to discuss findings directly with your surveyor

What’s Not Included in a Level 1 Survey?

A level 1 condition survey is not an in-depth inspection. It doesn’t include anything beyond visible defects and issues. You won’t get:

Repair cost estimates
Market valuation or reinstatement valuation
Specialist structural investigations
Damp, timber, or invasive testing
Legal or planning advice.

Why Choose Fitzgerald Surveying Services for
Your Condition Survey

Fitzgerald Surveying Services provides independent condition surveys across South East England for buyers who want straightforward, professional advice before purchasing a property. Every inspection is carried out by an experienced RICS surveyor, and every survey is prepared solely for the buyer, without influence from lenders or estate agents. We also provide further condition surveys and specialist inspections where additional investigation is needed.

RICS Qualified and Accredited

We are fully qualified RICS members and operate under strict professional standards and ethics. All work is insurance-backed and carried out in line with recognised industry guidance. We are also members of RICS, RPSA, CIOB, FODCS (Federation of Damp Certified Surveyors), Checkatrade, and Infrared Training Centre.

Truly Independent Survey Advice

Many buyers think mortgage valuations fully assess a property, but they mainly protect lenders. Our independent condition survey has no links to agents or lenders and provides unbiased advice based solely on the property’s visible condition and your best interests.

Detailed, Comprehensive Survey

Our condition surveys are designed to be useful, not padded out with technical language. We ensure clear condition ratings, straightforward explanations, photos of visible defects, and prompt delivery after the inspection.

Ongoing Client Support

Questions usually come after the report lands in your inbox. That’s normal. If you need clarification or want to talk through the findings, we’re here. You can contact us after the delivery to discuss the survey properly.

Precision & Accuracy

We use practical surveying experience alongside specialist diagnostic equipment where appropriate. These include thermal imaging and damp detection tools. It ensures the accuracy of our reports and advice.

Advanced Technology

We use cutting-edge technology if needed, like drones, thermal imaging, and specialist diagnostic equipment, to give you an accurate report about every accessible item that other average surveys may miss.

Detailed Property Survey Case Studies

We deliver accurate property surveys across all project types, helping clients understand issues clearly and make confident, informed property decisions.

Level 2 Home Survey for a Unique Property in Oxfordshire

Fitzgerald Surveying Services offer detailed Level 2 and Level 3 Home Surveys for unique, historic, listed and bespoke-built homes across Oxfordshire and the South East.

Condition Survey at Olympic Lodge Spots Key Risks

Fitzgerald Surveying Services offer condition surveys, defect inspections and strategic property reporting for residential, commercial and public-sector estates.

Leak Found with Thermal Imaging During a Damp Survey

Fitzgerald Surveying Services conduct thermal imaging surveys for leak detection, moisture tracking, insulation checks, underfloor heating performance, and more.

Level 2 Home Survey with Drone Imagery Spots Roofing Issues

Fitzgerald Surveying Services provide Level 2 Home Surveys enhanced with drone inspection for safer, more comprehensive property assessments.

EWI Inspection Survey in Oxford Identifies Key Defects Early

Fitzgerald Surveying Services provide professional insulation inspections and performance surveys for EWI, IWI, cavity and solid wall systems, plus heat-loss diagnostics and more!

Thermal Imaging Survey in Surrey Finds Hidden Heat Loss

Fitzgerald Surveying Services provide specialist thermal imaging inspections for underfloor heating performance, heat-loss and cold-spot identification, damp and condensation diagnostics, insulation retrofit verification, plus more!

Areas We Cover in South East England

Fitzgerald Surveying provides trusted residential surveying services across South East England. We cover towns and villages throughout Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Surrey, offering professional property inspections carried out by qualified RICS surveyors.

Whether you’re purchasing your first home, moving house, or investing in property, we’re here to provide clear, impartial advice. Browse the counties below to find your nearest location and discover the surveying services available in your area.

What Our Clients Say

Buyers across South East England regularly use our condition survey service to make clearer, more confident purchase decisions before exchange. A lot of clients come to us wanting straightforward answers without sales talk or vague reporting. Take a look through the feedback and see how other buyers found the process.

      
   Fitzgerald Surveying Services Ltd
   76 Google reviews 
  Write a review 
  
 
 
   
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Miranda Tuszynski 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A very detailed survey, including photos Marshall was very helpful explaining any concerns I had
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Matthew H 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Thanks for the highly detailed RICS level 2 survey which gives us confidence ahead of our purchase. Very much appreciated.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lisa Bida 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jake prepared a very thorough Level 3 Home Survey report for us. He booked it in quickly with the estate agent and we really appreciated how quickly he was able to get it back to us.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   emma kehoe 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I recently arranged a level 3 survey on a grade 2 listed property. From start to finish,  they were extremely easy to deal with, professional and efficient. Would thoroughly recommend! Thank you.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Robert Payne 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The team carried out a RICS level 3 plus survey on a property we are looking to buy. Great communication from start to finish and very thorough report that ensured we were fully informed on the property. Thanks!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Bijal Patel 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Jake did a fantastic job with our Level 3 Home Survey. He was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. While we were on holiday, he took the lead in organising both a drain survey and a structural survey, which made everything much less stressful. Jake also took the time to thoroughly review all the documents and promptly responded with clear, detailed feedback whenever needed. His communication and attention to detail were excellent, and it was clear that he genuinely cared about helping us make an informed decision. It was a pleasure working with Jake and the team. I would 100% recommend their services to anyone looking for a reliable and professional surveyor. Thank you, Jake! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Geraint Talbot-Davies 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Prompt and efficient delivery of a comprehensive building survey. Even better though was their after service care to clarify and amplify key points to follow through on.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Pierre Theo 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great communication throughout the process. The team provided a well drafted and thorough survey. Highly recommend.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Edison Bakalli 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service from Mitchell. The survey was thorough, professional, and delivered promptly. The report was clear and easy to understand, helping me make informed decisions. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a reliable and knowledgeable property surveyor.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Katie Hull 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an extremely thorough RICS Level 3 plus survey done on an old property we are buying. We were very impressed by the detail of survey and communication. Would thoroughly recommend!

How Our Level 1 Condition Survey Works

Booking a level 1 home survey with Fitzgerald Surveying Services is a straightforward process that has 4 simple steps.

Request Your No Obligation Quote

Get in touch with the property details, and we’ll advise whether a RICS home survey level 1 is suitable.

Survey Booked and Confirmed

Once confirmed, we arrange the inspection directly with the estate agent, seller, or occupier.

On Site Inspection by Our RICS Surveyor

The inspection itself usually takes around 1-2 hours, depending on the property size and layout.

Step 4: Receive Your Condition Survey

Your condition survey report is delivered digitally shortly after the inspection, with photographs and condition ratings included.

Book Your Level 1 Condition Survey in South East England

If you’re buying a modern or well-maintained property and want straightforward independent advice before moving ahead, Fitzgerald Surveying Services can help. Our RICS home survey level 1 inspections are carried out across South East England by qualified surveyors focused on the buyer’s interests.

Get in touch today to request a quote, ask questions, or book your condition survey. The process is simple, the reporting is clear, and the advice is genuinely independent.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Level 1 Condition Survey

Buying a property raises plenty of questions, especially if it’s your first time arranging a survey. Below are some of the things buyers ask most often before booking a home buyers survey level

What is a Level 1 condition survey?

A level 1 home survey is the entry-level RICS survey designed for standard properties in reasonable condition. It uses a visual inspection and traffic light condition ratings to highlight urgent defects or visible concerns. For a broader overview of what these surveys cover, see our condition surveys guide.

How much does a RICS home survey Level 1 cost?

RICS home survey level 1 cost depends on the property size, location, and type. It’s usually the most affordable RICS survey option available. Quotes are provided with no obligation, and for most buyers, the survey cost is small compared to the financial risk of buying without independent advice.

How long does a Level 1 home survey take?

Most inspections take between 1 and 2 hours on site, depending on the size and layout of the property. The property condition report is then delivered promptly after inspection.

What’s the difference between a Level 1 and a Level 2 survey?

A Level 1 survey provides condition ratings and highlights visible issues, but it does not include repair advice or detailed defect analysis.

A Level 2 survey goes further by explaining defects in more detail, offering repair guidance, and optionally including a valuation.

Level 2 is generally more suitable for older standard homes, while a level 1 home survey works best for newer, straightforward properties.

Can a Level 1 survey help renegotiate the purchase price?

Yes. If serious issues are identified and given a Condition Rating 3, buyers can use the survey’s findings during price negotiations with the seller.

Is a Level 1 survey suitable for new-build homes?

Not always. For brand-new properties, a snagging survey is usually more appropriate. However, a Level 1 survey can still suit near-new homes where no obvious snagging concerns exist.