If you've been researching home surveys, you may have come across terms like "HomeBuyers Report," "Homebuyer Survey," "RICS Level 2," and "RICS Level 3." These can be confusing — particularly because the terminology has changed. This guide clarifies the difference.
The Old Naming System
For many years, RICS offered three survey products:
The HomeBuyer Report was by far the most popular option for residential buyers purchasing conventional modern properties.
The New RICS Home Survey Standard
In 2019, RICS introduced the new Home Survey Standard, which replaced the old naming system with a numbered level system:
The core content and purpose of each level remained essentially the same — the change was primarily to the naming convention and to standardise the format across all RICS surveyors.
What This Means for Buyers
If you're searching for a "HomeBuyer Report," you're now looking for a RICS Home Survey Level 2. These are the same product under different names.
Similarly, if you've been quoted for a "Full Structural Survey" or "Building Survey," that's now called a RICS Home Survey Level 3.
When contacting Volarex (or any RICS surveyor), you can use either the old or new terminology — any professional surveyor will understand what you're asking for.
Which Level Do You Need?
Level 2 (formerly HomeBuyer Report): Suitable for conventional, modern properties in reasonable condition. Provides a visual inspection with traffic-light condition ratings. The most popular choice for post-war homes.
Level 3 (formerly Building Survey/Full Structural Survey): Suitable for older properties, listed buildings, unusual construction, or any property with known or suspected issues. The most comprehensive survey available.
A Note on Valuation
Both the old HomeBuyer Report and the new Level 2 survey can include a market valuation, carried out by a RICS Registered Valuer. This is optional and adds to the cost, but provides an independent opinion of what the property is worth — which can be useful when negotiating the purchase price.
At Volarex, all surveys are carried out by Adam Whitehouse, who is a RICS Registered Valuer and can include a formal valuation within your survey report on request.
The Bottom Line
Don't worry too much about the terminology. When you contact Volarex, tell us the property address, age, and type — and we'll recommend the right survey for your specific situation. Our job is to give you the information you need, in plain English, at a price that represents good value.