A building survey typically takes 2 to 4 hours on-site, with the report delivered within 3 to 7 working days.
However, this varies depending on the type of survey, property characteristics, and the surveyor’s availability.
Types of Building Survey and Their Time Requirements
RICS defines three main levels of property survey. Each has different inspection depths and reporting times:
| Survey Type | Also Known As | On-Site Time | Report Delivery | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level 1: RICS Condition Report | Basic Survey | 30 mins – 1.5 hours | 1 – 3 working days | New-builds or modern flats in good condition |
| Level 2: RICS Home Survey (Level 2) | Homebuyer Report | 1.5 – 3 hours | 2 – 4 working days | Conventional homes in reasonable condition |
| Level 3: RICS Building Survey | Full Structural Survey | 2.5 – 6+ hours | 3 – 7+ working days | Older, extended, or unusual properties |
Key Differences
- Level 1: Visual-only, no advice or repair estimates.
- Level 2: Highlights defects, includes repair advice, but no invasive checks.
- Level 3: Thorough assessment, includes structure, services, and future maintenance advice. May involve moving furniture, lifting covers, and using specialist tools.
Factors That Affect Survey Duration
Several property-specific and logistical factors can impact both the on-site inspection and how quickly you receive the report:
- Property size and layout: Larger or more complex homes take longer.
- Age and condition: Older buildings require more detailed investigation.
- Construction type: Non-standard construction (e.g. timber frame, thatch) takes longer to assess.
- Access issues: Inaccessible lofts, basements, or outbuildings slow progress.
- Follow-up needed: Surveyors may recommend further specialist reports (damp, timber, drains).
- Surveyor workload: Busy periods (spring/summer, pre-Christmas) can delay report turnaround.
Typical Timeframes
| Stage | Average Time |
|---|---|
| On-site inspection | 1.5 – 4 hours (Level 2), up to 6+ hours (Level 3) |
| Report delivery | 2 – 7 working days |
How to Avoid Delays
To help your survey go smoothly:
- Ensure all areas of the property are accessible (lofts, cellars, fuse boxes).
- Provide any known property details in advance (extensions, alterations, past issues).
- Confirm timeframes with the surveyor before booking.
To summarise:
- Survey type matters – Level 1 is fastest, Level 3 is most thorough.
- Expect 2–4 hours on-site for standard homes; more for large or complex ones.
- Report delivery ranges from 2–7 working days, depending on scope and property complexity.
Choosing the right survey for your property type ensures you’re properly informed and avoids unnecessary delay.
