Frequently Asked Questions

Clear Answers Before You Book

Buying a property can raise a lot of questions. Here you’ll find straightforward answers about Level 2 Home Surveys, Level 3 Building Surveys, New Build Snagging Surveys, pricing, reports and what happens after you instruct us.

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Most Asked

The Questions We Hear Most Often

What is the difference between a Level 2 and Level 3 Survey?

A Level 2 gives a clear overview of condition for conventional properties in reasonable condition. A Level 3 provides more detailed analysis of construction, defects, likely causes and repair options for older, larger, altered or complex homes.

Which survey is right for my property?

The right choice depends on the property’s construction, condition, complexity and alterations, as well as what you need from the report. Age is useful context, but it does not decide the survey level on its own.

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How much does a survey cost?

Level 2 Surveys start from £595 + VAT, Level 3 Surveys from £700 + VAT and New Build Snagging Surveys from £495 + VAT. The exact fee depends on the property and service required.

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How quickly will I receive the report?

Level 2 and Level 3 reports are normally issued within five working days. New Build Snagging reports are normally issued within three to five working days.

Can I speak to the surveyor afterwards?

Yes. You can speak directly with the surveyor dealing with your instruction to clarify findings and discuss practical next steps.

Does the survey include a valuation?

No. The survey services described here focus on the property’s condition and visible defects rather than providing a market valuation.

Who arranges access with the estate agent?

Once instructed, we normally liaise directly with the estate agent, vendor or relevant contact to arrange access for the inspection.

What happens if you find something serious?

We explain the concern, its likely significance and the sensible next step, which may include specialist investigation or obtaining repair advice before you proceed.

Choosing the Right Survey

What is the difference between a Level 2 and Level 3 Survey?

A Level 2 gives a clear overview of condition for conventional properties in reasonable condition. A Level 3 provides more detailed analysis of construction, defects, likely causes and repair options for older, larger, altered or complex homes.

Which survey is right for my property?

The right choice depends on the property’s construction, condition, complexity and alterations, as well as what you need from the report. Age is useful context, but it does not decide the survey level on its own.

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Is a Level 2 suitable for an older property?

It can suit some well-maintained, traditionally built homes, but age should be considered alongside construction, condition, size and alterations. An older, altered or unusual property may benefit from a Level 3 Survey.

Read about Level 2
When should I choose a Level 3 Building Survey?

Choose Level 3 where the property is older, larger, extended, converted, unusually constructed, visibly deteriorated or where you are planning significant refurbishment and need more detailed analysis.

Read about Level 3
Do I need a survey on a flat?

A survey can still be valuable for a flat. The appropriate level depends on the building’s age, construction, condition and alterations, while your legal adviser deals with lease and management matters.

Do I need a survey on a new build?

A New Build Snagging Survey can identify visible defects, incomplete work and poor finishes that may not be obvious during a normal viewing or handover.

Read about snagging
What if I’m still not sure which survey to choose?

Use the Survey Finder for an initial recommendation, or send us the property details so we can help identify the most appropriate service.

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What the Survey Includes

What does a Level 2 Home Survey include?

It is a thorough visual inspection of accessible parts of a conventional property, followed by a clear report with condition ratings, significant defects, photographs, maintenance advice and relevant next steps.

What does a Level 3 Building Survey include?

It covers visible and accessible areas and provides more detailed reporting on construction, defects, likely causes, repair options and longer-term maintenance considerations.

What does a New Build Snagging Survey include?

It systematically checks accessible areas of a new home and plot for visible defects, faults, incomplete work and unacceptable finishes, with findings recorded in a photographic report.

Do you inspect the roof space?

We enter and inspect accessible roof spaces where it is safe and practical to do so. Any restrictions are explained in the report.

Do you inspect the roof externally?

Yes. Roof coverings and visible roof details are inspected from safe, available vantage points, subject to weather, height and access limitations.

Do you test electrics, plumbing or heating?

We consider the visible condition and general operation of accessible installations where appropriate, but do not undertake specialist electrical, gas, plumbing pressure or commissioning tests.

Do you inspect drains?

Accessible drainage features may be visually inspected where safe and practical. The survey does not include a specialist CCTV drain survey or invasive testing.

Do you look for damp?

Yes. We look for visible signs and indications of damp in accessible areas and explain where the evidence suggests further investigation or remedial action may be appropriate.

Do you check for structural movement?

We assess visible signs such as cracking, distortion or movement. If the evidence warrants it, we may recommend further investigation by an appropriate specialist.

Do you inspect garages and outbuildings?

Permanent garages and outbuildings are considered where they form part of the property and can be accessed safely and reasonably.

Is the survey invasive?

No. The inspection is visual and non-invasive. We do not lift fitted floor coverings, open up the structure or carry out destructive investigations.

Are there areas you may not be able to inspect?

Yes. Furniture, stored items, fitted finishes, locked areas, unsafe conditions or limited access can restrict an inspection. Material limitations are recorded in the report.

Reports and Findings

How quickly will I receive the report?

Level 2 and Level 3 reports are normally issued within five working days. New Build Snagging reports are normally issued within three to five working days.

What format is the report provided in?

Your report is provided digitally in a clear, structured format that is easy to review and retain with your property records.

Does the report include photographs?

Yes. Supporting photographs are included where they help identify and explain important findings.

Can I speak to the surveyor afterwards?

Yes. You can speak directly with the surveyor dealing with your instruction to clarify findings and discuss practical next steps.

What happens if you find a serious defect?

We explain the visible evidence, likely implications and recommended next step so you can investigate further before making a commitment where appropriate.

Will the report tell me how urgent repairs are?

The report highlights significant issues and helps you understand priorities, implications and practical next steps based on the visible findings.

Will you recommend further investigations?

Yes, where visible evidence or an inspection limitation means advice from a suitably qualified specialist would be sensible before you proceed.

Can the report help me renegotiate the purchase price?

The findings can help you make an informed decision and may support discussions with the seller, but any renegotiation is between the parties and is not guaranteed.

Do you provide repair costs?

We explain likely repair needs and may recommend obtaining quotations. We do not promise exact repair-cost estimates as part of the standard survey.

Does the survey include a valuation?

No. The survey services described here focus on the property’s condition and visible defects rather than providing a market valuation.

Pricing and Booking

How much does a survey cost?

Level 2 Surveys start from £595 + VAT, Level 3 Surveys from £700 + VAT and New Build Snagging Surveys from £495 + VAT. The exact fee depends on the property and service required.

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How is the fee calculated?

The calculator starts with the survey type and bedroom count, then considers property type, purchase-price band, age and significant alterations where relevant. The estimate is rounded to the nearest £25.

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Is VAT included?

Prices are shown excluding VAT and with the VAT-inclusive total where an estimate is available. Starting prices are Level 2 £595 + VAT, Level 3 £700 + VAT and Snagging £495 + VAT.

Is the calculator price the final fee?

No. It is a guide rather than a binding quotation. Send the property details or listing and we will check them before confirming your fixed fee in writing.

Why does a Level 3 cost more than a Level 2?

A Level 3 report provides significantly greater detail about construction, defects, likely causes, repair options and longer-term maintenance, so it requires more inspection and reporting time.

Do larger properties cost more?

They can. Size, layout and complexity affect the time needed to inspect and report, so the calculator uses bedroom count and property type as part of the estimate.

Do you charge extra for London?

Location can affect the final fee. The calculator provides a guide, and we confirm the exact fixed fee after reviewing the property details.

How do I get a fixed quote?

Complete the pricing calculator, then send the short on-page form with the property address or estate-agent listing. We will review the details and confirm the exact fixed fee.

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When do I pay?

Payment arrangements are confirmed when you receive your fixed fee and before the inspection is booked. Contact us if you need to discuss the timing for a particular instruction.

Can I change survey type after requesting a quote?

Yes. If reviewing the property details suggests a different service is more appropriate, we can discuss the options before anything is booked.

Access and the Inspection Process

Who arranges access with the estate agent?

Once instructed, we normally liaise directly with the estate agent, vendor or relevant contact to arrange access for the inspection.

Do I need to attend the inspection?

No. Most buyers do not attend. We arrange access and you can discuss the findings directly with the surveyor after receiving the report.

How long does the inspection take?

It depends on the property’s size, condition, complexity and the service selected. We allow the time needed to inspect accessible areas carefully rather than working to a rigid duration.

Can you survey an occupied property?

Yes. Most surveys take place in occupied homes, provided suitable access can be arranged and the inspection can be carried out safely and reasonably.

What happens if access is restricted?

We inspect what can reasonably and safely be accessed and record significant limitations in the report. Further access or investigation may be recommended where it matters.

Can you inspect a vacant property?

Yes, provided access can be arranged and the property is safe to enter. Empty properties can still have locked or inaccessible areas, which will be noted where relevant.

Can you inspect before exchange?

Yes. For a home purchase, arranging the survey before exchange usually gives you time to understand important findings and consider any next steps.

When is the best time to arrange the survey?

Arrange it once your offer is accepted and early enough to review the report before exchange. For a new build, timing depends on when the developer permits access.

New Build Snagging

What is a snagging survey?

It is an independent visual inspection of a new home for defects, incomplete work and poor finishes, recorded clearly with photographs for you to raise with the developer.

When should I book a snagging inspection?

Ideally book before handover where the developer allows access. Otherwise, arrange it soon after completion so issues can be recorded promptly during the relevant aftercare or defects period.

Can you inspect before completion?

Yes, where the developer permits access and the property is sufficiently complete to inspect. We can help you consider the most useful timing for your circumstances.

Can I have a snagging survey after moving in?

Yes. It can still provide a useful independent record after you move in, particularly while you remain within the developer’s aftercare or defects period.

What defects do you look for?

We look for visible defects, faults, damage, incomplete work and unacceptable finishes across accessible interior, exterior, fittings, services controls and plot areas.

Can I send the report directly to the developer?

Yes. The report is structured as a clear photographic record that can be shared with the developer or site team when requesting remedial work.

Do you follow recognised new-build inspection standards?

Yes. ClearView snagging inspections follow the RPSA New Build Inspection & Reporting Standards, which provide a consistent professional framework for identifying, recording and reporting defects.

Do you test electrical or plumbing systems?

We visually inspect accessible fittings and consider general operation where appropriate. We do not carry out specialist electrical, gas, plumbing pressure or commissioning tests.

What happens if the developer refuses to fix the defects?

The report provides independent evidence of visible issues at the time of inspection. If a dispute remains, follow the developer’s complaints process and seek guidance from the warranty provider or New Homes Ombudsman where relevant.

Is snagging only for houses, or apartments too?

It is suitable for both newly built houses and apartments. The inspection covers the accessible parts included within your new home and any relevant private exterior or plot areas.

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