Building Survey FAQ | Common Home Survey Questions Answered

Level 2 or Level 3 - which is right for you?

A Level 3 survey benefits from everything listed under Level 2 plus additional services.

Level 2

Suitable for most modern homes (post 1930) in satisfactory repair. A property that does not meet this criteria will require a level 3 survey.

Level 3

Suitable for older properties (pre 1930), those in poor condition/ in need of refurbishment or those which have been significantly altered/ extended.

You will receive a comprehensive overview of the property

Comment on the property's main external and internal attributes via non-invasive measures

The survey will be undertaken using appropriate equipment

The report will contain an easy-to-understand traffic light system

Contain written and photographic evidence of defects highlighted for your attention

Identify issues such as structural movement, significant dampness, infestations and potentially hazardous materials

Provide you with an easy-to-understand, jargon-free report

24-hour post survey call with your surveyor

Everything included in Level 2 plus...

A call with your surveyor after the survey to discuss the details of your report.

Maintenance guidance to help you look after and preserve your home

Further guidance associated with defects and repairs

Additional photographs within the report

Guidance on the suitability of any recommendations made by an available Energy Performance Certificate

Inspection via our 12.6-meter camera pole with attached camera

Use of our aerial drone to capture hard-to-reach areas

FAQs

Find answers to common questions here. If you're question isn't answered, please don't hestitate to get in touch with our team.

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How long will it take to receive my report?

If you have booked a level 2 survey, please allow 5-7 working days to complete and send the report. If you have booked a level 3 survey, please allow 7-10 working days to complete the report.

Will I have the opportunity to speak with the surveyor after the survey?

Yes, every clients receives a call from their surveyor 24-hours after the inspection has taken place.

What happens if the survey identifies a serious defect?

Your surveyor will inform you of any serious defects on your 24-hour call. These will also be labelled as condition rating 3 ‘urgent’ in your report, with further advice on how to proceed.

How will I receive a copy of my survey?

You will receive an electronic (PDF) copy of your report which will be sent to your email, or is available to download within your customer portal. We do not send paper copies of our reports.

Do I need a valuation with my survey?

It is not a requirement to have a valuation attached to your survey. This is an option for clients who are concerned about the purchase price.

How can I pay for my survey?

All of our surveys can be paid via your dedicated customer account, once the option becomes available after confirming your booking and reading/ agreeing to our terms and conditions.

Why do I need to create an account?

Your client account is a secure way to store your information and provides a simple, step-by-step customer journey from the initial enquiry all the way to receiving your report. Additionally, any documents, emails and other communication can be easily accessed, providing a transparent approach when dealing with us.

How detailed will my report be?

The level of detail will depend on the type of survey you opt for. A standard level 2 survey will contain sufficient information for the purpose required and will meet the strict guidelines set by the RICS. Level 3 surveys are similar, but contain further detail in order to conform to the expected standard. For more information, please see our graph about titled ‘Level 2 or Level 3 – Which is right for you?’.

What areas do you cover?

We provide RICS Level 2 & Level 3 Surveys across Gloucestershire. However, we can provide survey reports in other surrounding locations, subject to the discretion of the surveyor.

Do you survey all types of properties?

If a property is deemed to be non-habitable or under-construction, we will not be able to provide a survey. Additionally, there are certain property types, such as historic timber-frame buildings, which sometimes require specialist inspection. If your property falls into one of the named categories on our booking form, we will speak with you prior to booking to ensure that we are the best people for the job.

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What are benefits of choosing Cornerstone over another company?

We are a small business who are customer focused. If our ethos could be summarised in three words, they would be communication, integrity and professionalism. For more information on why you should consider us, please refer to our landing page.

What recourse do I have should defects come to light after taking occupation?

For more information, please see our internal complaint handling procedure listed under our policies section at the bottom of our website.

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How do you communicate with the vendors?

We contact the estate agent first, as they are the primary point of communication for most property sales. Once the agent confirms access, we’ll call or email the vendors with the proposed date and time for the inspection. If we cannot reach the vendors directly, we’ll work with the estate agent and then update you to arrange alternative access if needed.

Are you linked to any third-party companies?

No, we are completely independent. We do not have any paid referral schemes with any estate agents, conveyancers or mortgage advisors etc. We are not owned/ part of a larger organisation. We believe that any referral should come based off personal experience, not a monetary incentive.

Do I have a right to appeal your valuation?

For more information, please see our internal complaint handling procedure listed under out policies section.

How do you ensure my information and privacy is protected?

For more information, please see our data protection policy listed under our ‘policies’ section at the bottom of our website.

What are your opening hours?

Our contactable hours of operation are Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 5:30pm.

Do you have a refund policy?

Yes, we refer you to our terms and condition documents under our policies section at the bottom of our website.

What happens if you can’t get access to the property?

Unfortunately, there is always the possibility of something going wrong when it comes to access. Whether it be the vendor isn’t home, the agent provided the wrong keys or a difficult tenant not allowing access. If a circumstance like arises, it will be dealt with on a individual basis.

Why Choose Cornerstone Surveyors?

We’re proud to be trusted building surveyors in Gloucestershire, serving homebuyers across Cheltenham, Gloucester, Cirencester, Stroud and surrounding areas.

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Fully qualified RICS chartered surveyors
Expert local knowledge of Gloucestershire's property market
Friendly, personal service with post-survey phone support
Quick turnaround: reports typically delivered within 5 working days
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Clear, honest communication throughout the process

As a local Gloucestershire surveyor, we pride ourselves on delivering tailored services to each client. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or an experienced investor, our team ensures your survey experience is straightforward and stress-free.

Is a Level 2 Survey Right for My Property?

A Level 2 Home Survey is generally suitable if:

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Your property is built using standard construction (brick, tile, slate, etc.)
It appears to be in reasonable condition
You don’t need a deep investigation of structure or services

If you’re buying an older, unusual, or heavily altered property, especially one built pre-1900, you may want to consider a Level 3 Building Survey for a more detailed assessment.

Still unsure? Give us a call and our building surveyors will advise on the best survey for your situation.

What Are the Benefits of a RICS Level 2 Survey?

Identifies problems before you commit to buy
Helps with negotiating repairs or price reductions
Reduces the risk of surprise costs post-purchase
Gives confidence to move forward or pause if serious issues arise

Many buyers use the home survey level 2 report as a powerful tool during conveyancing, which could save you thousands.

How Much Does a Level 2 Home Buyers Survey Cost?

The cost of a Level 2 Building Survey depends on the size, value, and complexity of the property. As a guide, prices typically start from £700 + for a standard home in Gloucestershire.

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Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. You’ll receive a tailored quote based on the details you provide, and we’ll guide you through exactly what’s included.

How to Book a RICS Level 2 Home Survey?

Booking your Level 2 Survey with Cornerstone is simple:

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Call or complete our online enquiry form
Tell us about the property, location, type, and condition
We’ll confirm availability and provide a quote
Survey carried out by our local team
Receive your report in approx. 5 working days

Why Choose Cornerstone Surveyors?

We’re experienced building surveyors in Gloucestershire, with a passion for helping clients buy homes confidently. Here’s what sets us apart:

RICS-registered chartered surveyors
Specialist experience in historic, listed and character buildings
Local knowledge of Gloucestershire’s architecture, materials and building techniques
Clear, honest advice, in plain English
Transparent pricing with no hidden extras
Post-survey call to discuss key findings and answer your questions

If you’re looking for a listed building surveyor in Gloucestershire, we have the experience to help you make informed decisions.

Is a Level 3 Survey Right for You?

Choose a Level 3 Building Survey if:

The property is older (built before 1900)
It’s listed or in a conservation area
You’re planning alterations or renovation work
You’ve noticed signs of damage or deterioration

If the property is modern and in good condition, a Level 2 survey might be more appropriate. Not sure? We’ll always recommend the best survey for your specific situation.

Benefits of a Level 3 RICS Building Survey?

Thorough understanding of structural condition
Repair advice and cost guidance
Identifies major and minor defects
Helps avoid unexpected bills
Confidence to negotiate, budget or walk away

For high-value properties, the building survey level 3 is a powerful tool that protects your investment.

What is the Level 3 Building Survey Cost & Timescale?

The cost of a Level 3 Home Survey depends on the size, age, and complexity of the property. As a guide:

Level 3 survey prices are bespoke
Reports are typically delivered within 7–10 working days

We’ll confirm everything in advance and provide a personalised quote – no surprises, no stress.

How to Book a Level 3 RICS Building Survey?

Booking is easy:

Call us or complete our quick online form
Share details of the property (location, age, known issues)
We’ll advise if a Level 3 survey is right for you
Receive a quote and confirm your booking
Inspection takes place – report delivered in 7–10 working days

We’ll keep you updated throughout, so you’re never left in the dark.

Will the survey include the cost of repairs or reinstatement?

Our survey report does not include specific cost estimates for repairs, replacements, or reinstatement. Instead, it highlights the condition of the property, identifies defects, and advises on the urgency of any required work.

UK qualified surveyors. Providing RICS Level 2 and Level 3 surveys and property valuations.

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Registered Address: C/O Ashford House, Dixons Green Road, Dudley, West Midlands, England, DY2 7DJ

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Level 2 or Level 3 - which is right for you?

Level 2

Level 3

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