RICS Level 1 Survey (Condition Report)

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Whether you are planning to buy a home or a buy-to-let, as a property owner you will benefit from having valuable information about the condition of the property you have your eye on. A RICS Level 1 Survey, previously known as the Condition Report, is a basic level of building inspection that provides an overview of the general condition of a property and may be the right choice for you.

Is The RICS Level 1 Survey right for me?

In order to know whether the property purchase price is reasonable, you need to know whether the property is in good condition. A survey will give you this information – and can save you thousands of pounds.

Depending on the type of property you are thinking of purchasing, there are three levels of RICS home survey available from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The RICS Level 1 Survey, formerly called the Condition Report, is the lowest priced, entry level survey and is typically used for newer properties and conventional homes in good condition.

This type of survey is often recommended for homebuyers or sellers who want to gain a general understanding of the property’s condition without commissioning a more detailed and costly survey. Choose this report if you’re buying a conventional house, flat or bungalow built within the last 20 years from common building materials and in reasonable condition. It focuses purely on the condition of the property by setting out the following:

Clear ‘traffic light’ ratings of the condition of different parts of the building, services, garage and outbuildings, showing problems that may require varying degrees of attention;
A summary of the risks to the condition of the building; and
Advice on planning and Building Control matters for your legal advisers.
It does not give repair advice.

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Simply complete the form below and one of our friendly team will be in touch to discuss your survey options.

Client Testimonials

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
    Keir Clarke 
 7 July 2026
 
 
  Paul completed a Historic Building Survey for me on a 1842 stone cottage. Throughout the process from initial inquiry to sending of the completed the report, the communication has been outstanding. Paul and Catherine answered all of my questions clearly and confidently, providing me with the greatest assurance that the survey was going to be thorough and meet my requirements. The report took place, and Paul phoned me that day and discussed the findings, and then within the given timeframe the full report was sent. The level and quality of information provided was brilliant and the attention to detail was excellent. The report answered questions that I was going to ask without needing to, clearly demonstrating the time and effort that goes into the survey. This combined with an excellent price, ultimately formed a brilliant customer experience. I will pass on my recommendations to friends and family. Thanks again for all your hard work Gowers Surveyors!
  
 
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    Simon Gledhill 
 6 November 2025
 
 
  Absolutely phenomenal! Paul completed a level 3 historic building survey on a large barn conversion for me. I honestly don't think I have ever been more impressed by any proffessional in any field! I was told by the estate agent that he has a reputation for providing next level detail... and that proved to be correct! His knowledge and wisdom are extraordinary. The report (supplied both in pdf and very impressive bound hardcover book) was 132 pages. It included very relevant advice about how to care for the building, adjusted to the specific context. But 75% of the content was describing the condition of the building and what work was necessary to rectify defects. The report was easy to read and written in plain English and with photos to illustrate. Both before and after the survey, I spoke at length with Paul on the phone - he was very patient with all my silly questions! We haven't yet decided if we are going to progress with this purchase, but I can certainly say that if we pursue another house instead, I won't use anyone other than Paul to survey it!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Estella Todisco 
 6 September 2024
 
 
  I can’t thank Paul Gowers enough for the work he did on a  party wall dispute. He was professional, responsive and personable.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Ben Green 
 24 May 2023
 
 
  Having used Paul's services for a survey on our upcoming listed building purchase I can assure you that you will get the most thorough, professional and helpful service that you could wish for. The report tallied over 100 pages covering all aspects of the house, walls, frames, windows, roof space, drainage, outbuildings, render, roof tiles, water tanks, electrics, insulation, listed building consent, health and safety and much more. Not only that but Paul's report also told us how to best maintain the house going forwards, using what materials and how often things need doing. This was most definitely worth every penny and has allowed us to make an informed decision on the purchase going forwards.

A+ rating from me!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    James Marron 
 19 May 2023
 
 
  I could not recommend Paul Gowers highly enough. Excellent service and a very comprehensive, clear report. An extremely knowledgeable and helpful professional.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Brian Scull 
 15 September 2021
 
 
  I have just had a Survey completed by Gowers of Stamford. I have to say that the team there are superb.
From the first contact with Catherine who was courteous, professional and helpful and who also arranged everything. To the surveyor Paul who was marvellous, the report was clear and well presented and easy to understand. Paul was extremely helpful and prepared to spend time discussing all the sections and any issues i had.He was very professional and a pleasure to deal with.
I don’t normally do revues but felt compelled on this occasion because they deserve enormous praise and i would thoroughly recommend them.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Cameron Bauldry 
 7 July 2021
 
 
  I needed a building survey doing at short notice after red flags were raised once receiving searches and the sellers paperwork back. Unfortunately Gowers and everyone else I checked with were all booked up for months however Paul took time out of his busy day to speak to me, listen to my situation and provide me with some fantastic advice which I very much appreciate. He is very knowledgeable and the advice given has helped me in the next steps of my house purchase. Thank you again.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Neil Crees 
 18 March 2021
 
 
  The value of using Paul, a local well known professional, was huge.  I received immediate personal feedback allowing me to take timely action to avoid what could have been an expensive mistake.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
    Sam Paul 
 10 December 2019
 
 
  We engaged Gowers to carry out a building survey for an old residential property with multiple issues. Paul Gowers was excellent in his response time to our questions and the level of professional reporting. The service we received was reassuring for us and we would certainly use Gowers again.

Why choose Gowers Surveyors?

With offices in Cambridge, Stamford and Peterborough and over 25 years’ experience in all types of property surveying, Gowers Surveyors should be your first port of call for any survey requirement in Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire, Rutland and Northamptonshire.

The company is run by Paul Gowers, a Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the Chartered Association of Building Engineers and the Faculty of Building. He is a RICS Registered Valuer under the RICS Accredited Valuer Registration Scheme. For your complete confidence and peace of mind, we are regulated by RICS guidelines and protocol.

RICS Level 1 Condition Report FAQs

What does a RICS Level 1 Survey include?

A RICS Level 1 Survey, formerly known as the Condition Report, provides a concise overview of the property’s condition. It includes:

Clear ‘traffic light’ ratings for different parts of the building, services, garage, and outbuildings
A summary of risks to the building’s condition
Advice on relevant legal matters for your solicitor

The survey does not offer repair advice or a property valuation.

When is a RICS Level 1 Survey appropriate?

A RICS Level 1 Survey is typically suitable for:

Conventional properties (houses, flats, or bungalows) built within the last 20 years
Properties constructed using common building materials
Homes in reasonable condition
Buyers or sellers seeking a general understanding of a property’s condition without requiring an in-depth survey

What's the difference between a RICS Level 1 Survey and a mortgage valuation?

A RICS Level 1 Survey focuses on the condition of the property, while a mortgage valuation is primarily for the lender’s benefit. Key differences include:

Purpose: The Level 1 Survey informs the buyer about the property’s condition, whereas a mortgage valuation determines if the property is suitable security for a loan.
Depth: A Level 1 Survey provides more detailed information about the property’s condition than a standard mortgage valuation.
Client: The Level 1 Survey is for the buyer’s benefit, while the mortgage valuation is for the lender.

How long is a RICS Level 1 Survey valid for?

While there’s no official expiration date for a RICS Level 1 Survey, its relevance may diminish over time. Factors to consider include:

Property age and condition
Any renovations or alterations made since the survey
Changes in the local environment or climate

As a general rule, if more than 3-6 months have passed since the survey, you may want to consider obtaining an updated report.

Do I need a RICS Level 1 Survey before buying a house?

While not legally required, a RICS Level 1 Survey is highly recommended before purchasing a property. Benefits include:

Identifying potential issues that could affect your decision or negotiating position
Providing peace of mind about the property’s condition
Potentially saving you money by highlighting problems early

However, for older or more complex properties, you may want to consider a more comprehensive survey, such as a RICS Level 2 or Level 3 Survey.

Do I need a Level 1 or Level 2 survey?

The choice between a Level 1 or Level 2 survey depends on various factors:

Choose a Level 1 survey if:
- The property was built within the last 20 years
- It’s in good condition and constructed with common building materials
- You’re looking for a general overview of the property’s condition

Consider a Level 2 survey if:
- The property is older (over 20 years)
- It has unusual features or construction methods
- You’re planning renovations
- You need more detailed information about the property’s condition and potential issues

If you’re unsure, consult with Gowers Surveyors. Our experienced team can advise on the most appropriate survey for your specific circumstances.

How much does a RICS Level 1 survey cost?

The cost of a RICS Level 1 survey can vary depending on several factors:

Property size and type
Location
Complexity of the building

As a general guide, RICS Level 1 surveys are typically the most affordable option among the RICS survey types. However, for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, we recommend contacting Gowers Surveyors directly. We can provide a tailored quote based on your specific property and requirements, ensuring you receive the best value for your investment in property assessment.

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