Brixton Surveyors
You Can Trust

The main difference is depth. A RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer report is ideal for conventional properties in reasonable condition — typically post-war homes that are straightforward in construction. It uses a clear traffic-light rating system (conditions 1, 2 and 3) to flag issues.

A RICS Level 3 building survey (sometimes called a full structural survey) goes much deeper. It covers all accessible parts of the structure — roof, walls, floors, chimneys — with detailed descriptions of any defects found and advice on how serious they are. We strongly recommend this for Victorian and Edwardian properties around Brixton, period buildings, listed buildings, or any home that's been heavily extended or altered.

Survey costs in Brixton typically range from:

• Level 2 HomeBuyer report: £450 – £750
• Level 3 building survey: £650 – £1,400
• Property valuation: £300 – £700
• Party wall survey: From £850

The cost depends on the property's value, size, age and condition. Use our cost calculator for an instant estimate, or contact us for a precise quote. A survey almost always pays for itself by uncovering issues you can use to renegotiate the purchase price.

Your mortgage lender will carry out their own valuation — but this is not a survey. It's simply an assessment of whether the property is worth the amount you're borrowing. It won't tell you about structural defects, damp, roof problems or anything else that could cost you thousands down the line.

We always recommend commissioning your own independent home survey. In London especially, where properties are often older and have been heavily modified, having an independent RICS chartered surveyor evaluate the condition of the building before you exchange is simply good sense.

A party wall agreement is required under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 when you plan to carry out building work on, or near, a wall shared with a neighbour — such as a loft conversion, extension, or underpinning. You're legally required to serve party wall notices on affected neighbours before work begins.

If your neighbour disputes the work, or if both parties agree, a party wall surveyor is appointed to produce an award (a formal agreement) setting out how the work should proceed. As experienced party wall surveyors in Brixton, we can act as the agreed surveyor, your surveyor or your neighbour's surveyor — and we can help both building owners and adjoining owners navigate the process.

A Level 2 HomeBuyer survey on a two-bedroom flat typically takes 2–3 hours on-site. A Level 3 building survey on a larger Victorian terrace in Brixton might take 4–6 hours, depending on the size and condition of the property.

After the inspection, we aim to deliver your written report within 3–5 working days. We also include a free follow-up call to go through the findings — something many clients tell us they really appreciate, especially first-time buyers who aren't familiar with construction terminology.

Yes. All of our surveyors are accredited under one or more of the leading professional bodies: the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and/or the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA). You can verify any surveyor's status on the RICS online register at rics.org.

We take our professional obligations seriously. Every survey is carried out in accordance with the relevant RICS practice standards, and we carry full professional indemnity insurance. Your investment is in safe hands.