Not sure which property survey is right for you? JGL Associates explain every type of residential building survey — from Level 2 Homebuyer Surveys to full Level 3 Building Surveys, snagging, buy-to-let and expert witness reports.
Get a Free QuoteCall 07421 997067There is no single “standard” property survey — different surveys exist for different needs. Whether you’re buying a home, investing in a rental, taking over a new build, or dealing with a dispute, the right survey gives you the information you need. JGL Associates offer the full range of residential surveys, all carried out by a RICS regulated surveyor based in Liverpool.
A thorough assessment of a property’s condition for buyers of conventionally constructed homes. Uses RICS’s clear traffic-light condition ratings (1–3) to identify defects, risks and issues so you can make a fully informed purchase decision.
The most comprehensive property survey available, formerly known as a Full Structural Survey. Our surveyor inspects all accessible parts of the building and provides a detailed report on condition, defects, causes, and remediation advice.
A specialist survey designed exclusively for landlords and property investors — only available from RPSA member surveyors. Covers property condition and landlord compliance including HHSRS, fire safety, EPC, and Section 11 obligations.
A detailed inspection of a newly built home to identify defects, unfinished work and deviations from the agreed specification before or after legal completion. Gives you a full snagging list to present to your developer for rectification.
An independent survey documenting the condition of a property affected by disrepair — damp, mould, structural defects, or landlord neglect. Used to support housing disrepair claims against social landlords and private letting agents.
Independent, impartial expert witness reports for property and construction disputes in civil litigation — fully compliant with CPR Part 35. Our surveyor holds the RICS Expert Witness Certificate.
Use this table to quickly compare what each survey covers and who it suits.
| Survey Type | Structural Condition | Defect Causes & Advice | Landlord Compliance | Legal/Court Use | Typical Property |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 3 Building Survey | ✓ Full | ✓ Detailed | — | — | Older / complex |
| Level 2 Homebuyer Survey | ✓ Standard | ◯ Summary | — | — | Post-1900 standard |
| Buy-to-Let Survey | ✓ Standard | ◯ Summary | ✓ Full | — | Rental / investment |
| Snagging Survey | ◯ Defects | ✓ Snagging list | — | — | New build only |
| Housing Disrepair Survey | ✓ Disrepair focus | ✓ Evidence report | — | ◯ Supports claim | Rented / disputed |
| Expert Witness | ✓ As required | ✓ Expert opinion | — | ✓ CPR Part 35 | Any / dispute |
Your circumstances will usually point clearly to one survey type. Here are the most common scenarios.
For a conventionally built semi-detached, terraced or detached property in reasonable condition, a Level 2 Homebuyer Survey is usually the right choice. It covers the key condition risks and defects without unnecessary cost.
View Homebuyer Survey →Victorian terraces, Edwardian homes, properties with extensions or conversions, or anything in visibly poor condition warrant a Level 3 Building Survey. You need the fullest possible picture before committing to purchase.
View Building Survey →As a landlord, your obligations go beyond condition — you need to know about HHSRS hazards, fire safety, EPC compliance and Section 11 responsibilities. The Buy-to-Let Homebuyer Survey is designed specifically for you.
View Buy-to-Let Survey →New build homes often contain defects the developer won’t tell you about. A Snagging Survey before or shortly after legal completion gives you a documented list of defects to put to your developer for remediation.
View Snagging Survey →If your landlord is failing to address disrepair, a Housing Disrepair Survey documents the condition of your home independently and professionally — providing evidence to support a compensation claim or legal action.
View Housing Disrepair Survey →For civil litigation involving property or construction — whether defects, damage or breach of contract — an Expert Witness report from a RICS certified expert witness is what the courts require.
View Expert Witness Services →From first contact to receiving your report, the process is straightforward and hassle-free.
Call or email us with the property address and details. We’ll advise which survey suits your situation and give you a no-obligation fee quote, usually within one working day.
We arrange a convenient inspection date with you and the vendor or landlord. Our surveyor carries out a thorough on-site inspection of all accessible parts of the property.
You receive a clear, professionally produced report with findings, condition ratings and practical recommendations — everything you need to make a confident decision or take action.
We’re happy to advise before you book — at no charge. Call us or send a message with the property details and we’ll point you in the right direction.
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