Home Surveys in Cardiff & South Wales

Clear, independent advice before you commit.

Buying a home is one of the most significant decisions you will make. A RICS Home Survey provides an independent assessment of a property’s condition, helping you understand any issues before you proceed.

At Elliot & Hill Surveyors, we offer RICS Level 2 Home Surveys and RICS Level 3 Building Surveys, carried out in accordance with the RICS Home Survey Standard (HSS). Our reports are clear, proportionate and designed to support informed decision-making.

Why Have a Home Survey?

A home survey helps you:

  • understand the condition of the property you are buying

  • identify defects that may affect value, safety or future maintenance

  • avoid unexpected repair costs

  • prioritise issues and understand their significance

  • decide whether further investigations are required

Mortgage valuations are carried out for the lender’s benefit and do not provide the same level of detail as a home survey. A RICS Home Survey is commissioned solely for you, the buyer.

Which Home Survey Do I Need?

Choosing the right survey depends on the age, construction and condition of the property.

RICS Level 2 Home Survey

Suitable for:

  • conventionally built properties

  • homes that appear to be in reasonable condition

  • many Victorian, Edwardian, 1930s and post-war houses

  • flats and modern developments

The Level 2 Survey provides:

  • a visual inspection of accessible areas

  • condition ratings to highlight priority issues

  • clear explanations written in plain English

  • advice on repairs and further investigations where appropriate

RICS Level 3 Building Survey

Recommended for:

  • older or period properties

  • buildings of non-standard or mixed construction

  • homes that have been significantly altered or extended

  • properties in poor or neglected condition

  • buyers planning renovation or structural works

The Level 3 Survey provides:

  • a detailed analysis of construction and condition

  • explanations of defects, causes and implications

  • advice on repair principles and maintenance

  • identification of risks and future considerations

What Does a Home Survey Include?

All RICS Home Surveys are visual and non-intrusive, in line with the Home Survey Standard. This means the inspection does not involve lifting carpets, moving heavy furniture or opening up the structure.

Depending on the survey level, reports typically comment on:

  • roof coverings, chimneys and rainwater goods (from accessible vantage points)

  • external walls, windows and doors

  • internal walls, ceilings and floors

  • roof spaces and sub-floor areas (where safely accessible)

  • signs of dampness, movement or disrepair

  • permanent outbuildings and boundary structures (where applicable)

  • services such as electrics, gas and plumbing (visually only – not tested)

Any limitations to the inspection are clearly stated within the report.

Why Choose Elliot & Hill Surveyors?

  • RICS-regulated, independent surveying practice

  • Surveys carried out in line with the RICS Home Survey Standard

  • Clear, structured and balanced reporting

  • Honest advice without unnecessary alarm

  • Local experience across Cardiff and the Vale

Our role is to help you understand the property you are buying — clearly, calmly and objectively.

Book a Home Survey

If you are purchasing a property and would like to arrange a RICS Home Survey, please get in touch to discuss the most suitable option or request a quotation.