Level 1 Condition Report

What is a Level 1 Condition Report?

A Level 1 Condition Report is a streamlined property survey designed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to provide a quick, affordable assessment of a residential property's condition. It's the entry-level survey option and uses a simple traffic light system to highlight any issues that may need attention.

This survey type is ideal for buyers who want a basic understanding of their property's physical condition without the detailed investigation of more comprehensive surveys. It offers peace of mind without breaking the bank, typically costing between £300 and £500 depending on property size and location.

Level 1 Condition Report Cost

The typical cost of a Level 1 Condition Report in the UK ranges from £300 to £500. However, the exact price depends on several factors:

• Property size: Larger properties cost more to survey
• Property type: Flats are usually cheaper than detached houses
• Location: London and Southeast England typically cost more
• Surveyor experience: More experienced surveyors may charge premium rates
• Access difficulties: Properties with difficult access may incur additional fees

Use our cost calculator to get an exact quote based on your specific property details.

What's Included in a Level 1 Survey?

A Level 1 Condition Report covers a visual inspection of the main elements of your property. The surveyor will assess and report on:

Traffic Light System

The report uses a simple three-colour classification:

Covered Areas

• Structure: Walls, roof, and overall structural integrity
• Exterior: Roofing, gutters, downpipes, and external walls
• Services: Basic assessment of electrics, plumbing, and heating systems
• Interior: Ceilings, walls, floors, and visible defects
• Grounds: Basic visual inspection of the property boundaries and gardens

What's NOT Included in a Level 1 Survey?

It's important to understand the limitations of a Level 1 Condition Report. This survey does not include:

• Valuation: The surveyor does not value the property
• Structural tests: No intrusive investigations or specialist testing
• Detailed measurements: Room dimensions and detailed specifications are not provided
• Defect diagnosis: Root causes of defects may not be investigated in depth
• Asbestos testing: Specialist testing for asbestos or other hazardous materials

Who Should Get a Level 1 Condition Report?

A Level 1 survey is suitable if you:

• Are a first-time buyer looking for basic reassurance
• Are buying a relatively new or recently refurbished property
• Have a limited budget for survey costs
• Are buying a straightforward property with no obvious issues
• Want a quick overview before deciding on more detailed surveys

Pros and Cons of a Level 1 Survey

Advantages

• Affordable: At £300-£500, it's the cheapest RICS survey option
• Quick: Can often be completed within days
• Easy to understand: The traffic light system is simple and clear
• Professional assessment: Conducted by qualified RICS surveyors

Disadvantages

• Limited detail: May not identify all potential issues
• No valuation: Cannot be used for mortgage valuation purposes
• Not suitable for older properties: May miss hidden defects in period properties
• Limited investigation: Root causes of issues may not be determined

When Should You Upgrade to a Level 2 Survey?

If your Level 1 survey reveals any red or amber flags, or if the property is older or has complex features, consider upgrading to a Level 2 HomeBuyer Report. This more detailed survey includes:

• More detailed investigation of identified defects
• Recommendations for repairs and maintenance
• Estimated costs for remedial work
• Insurance information and property valuation

For properties with significant structural issues or those over 100 years old, a Level 3 Building Survey provides the most comprehensive assessment.

How to Find a RICS Surveyor

To ensure you get a quality Level 1 survey when buying or selling your property, it's essential to use a qualified RICS surveyor. Here's how to find one:

RICS Find a Surveyor Directory

Visit the official RICS website and use their "Find a Surveyor" tool. This directory only lists chartered surveyors who are properly qualified and regulated. You can search by postcode, survey type, and specialty.

Check Qualifications

Always verify that your surveyor is a full member of RICS (look for MRICS designation). Ensure they hold professional indemnity insurance and are covered by the RICS complaints and disputes procedure.

Get Multiple Quotes

Contact at least 3 different surveyors and compare their quotes. While price is important, don't choose solely on cost. Consider the surveyor's experience with similar properties and read customer reviews.

Ask About Services

Ask whether the surveyor offers additional services such as asbestos testing, Japanese knotweed inspection, or drainage surveys. Some surveyors bundle these services at discounted rates.

Key Takeaways