In 2025, UK homebuyers are taking a more cautious, informed approach to property purchases than ever before. With fluctuating mortgage rates, rising energy costs, and increased awareness of hidden housing issues, it’s no surprise that more buyers are opting for in-depth home surveys before committing to a purchase.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving up the ladder, an RICS Level 2 or Level 3 survey offers peace of mind, protects your finances and gives you a clear picture of the property’s true condition.
A Shift in Buyer Behaviour
Recent data shows a noticeable rise in the number of buyers commissioning detailed property surveys. According to Introducer Today, the proportion of buyers requesting in-depth home condition reports rose from 10.6% in Q2 2024 to 16% by Q3. This trend continues into 2025 as buyers become more wary of structural issues, repair costs, and long-term maintenance.
Buyers are no longer relying on mortgage valuations or quick visual inspections. Instead, they want independent, expert insight into the condition of the home they’re about to invest in.
Why Are More People Choosing Detailed Surveys?
There are several reasons behind this growing demand for comprehensive surveys:
1. Cost of Living Awareness
With the rising cost of living, buyers are understandably more concerned about unplanned repair bills. A leaking roof or outdated electrical system can easily cost thousands to fix. A Level 2 or Level 3 survey identifies these problems before they become your financial responsibility.
2. Stricter Lending and Insurance Criteria
Some lenders and insurers now require evidence of a property’s condition before issuing policies or loans. A detailed home survey provides the documentation needed to satisfy these conditions.
3. Negotiation Power
When a survey identifies issues, it gives the buyer leverage to renegotiate the asking price or request repairs. This can lead to significant savings or better purchase terms. A professionally conducted survey arms you with factual, objective evidence to support your negotiations.
4. Long-Term Planning
Beyond the purchase, buyers are increasingly thinking about the long-term costs of owning a home. A detailed survey not only reveals current defects but also flags potential future maintenance needs, helping you budget and plan wisely.
What Do Level 2 and Level 3 Surveys Include?
At Survey Hut, we offer both Level 2 (HomeBuyer) and Level 3 (Building) surveys, tailored to different types of properties:
- Level 2 Home Survey: Ideal for modern or relatively well-maintained properties. This includes a visual inspection of all major elements, highlighting issues like damp, roofing defects, window problems, and more. It also provides an easy-to-follow condition rating system, so buyers can quickly identify urgent concerns.
- Level 3 Home Survey: Recommended for older, larger, or altered properties. It involves a more detailed visual inspection than a Level 2, covering more elements in greater depth – such as lofts, floors, and outbuildings – and includes detailed advice on repair options and maintenance planning. However, it does not include a structural report or any invasive testing. Structural concerns are noted based on visible signs only. Where structural defects are suspected, a separate structural engineer’s report may be advised.
Both survey types are carried out by our RICS-qualified surveyors and delivered in easy-to-understand formats, with clear summaries and repair recommendations.
How to Decide Which Survey You Need
Choosing between a Level 2 and Level 3 survey depends on the property’s age, condition, and any concerns you might have:
- If the home is relatively new and appears in good shape, a Level 2 survey is typically sufficient.
- For older buildings, homes that have been extended or renovated, or if you suspect deeper issues, a Level 3 survey offers the depth of insight needed to make an informed decision.
If you’re unsure which survey is right for your property, our team is happy to advise!
Don’t Skip the Survey – Protect Your Investment
With the housing market remaining competitive in 2025, it’s tempting to speed through the process and cut corners. But skipping a home survey could leave you facing major repair costs just months after moving in.
A survey isn’t just an added formality, it’s a crucial step in protecting your investment and avoiding nasty surprises.
Book Your RICS Home Survey with Survey Hut
At Survey Hut, we make it easy to get the information you need to move forward confidently. Our RICS-qualified surveyors provide clear, professional reports that help you:
- Understand the true condition of your future home
- Avoid unexpected costs
- Strengthen your position during negotiations
- Plan for future maintenance
Join the growing number of buyers taking control of their property purchases in 2025.
Book your Level 2 or Level 3 home survey with Survey Hut today!
