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 in Cardiff, 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.
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.
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-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.
The Level 3 Survey is 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, and buyers planning renovation or structural works. It provides a detailed analysis of construction and condition, explanations of defects, causes and implications, advice on repair principles and maintenance, and identification of risks and future considerations.
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.
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.
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