House ChapterStart your journey →

Survey results interpreter

Your RICS survey arrived full of 2s and 3s and now you're panicking. Enter the condition ratings and get plain-English context — including what's completely normal for a property of that age.

1No repair currently needed. Normal maintenance applies.
2Defects that need repairing or replacing but are not serious or urgent. This is the 'budget and plan' category — most surveys of most homes contain several 2s.
3Serious defects, or ones needing urgent investigation. Not necessarily a deal-breaker — but get quotes or specialist reports BEFORE exchange, and consider renegotiating.

Enter your ratings (skip anything not in your survey)

  • Roof coverings

  • Chimney stacks

  • Gutters & downpipes

  • External walls

  • Windows & doors

  • Damp

  • Timber (rot & woodworm)

  • Electrical installation

  • Heating & boiler

  • Plumbing & bathrooms

  • Drainage

The survey is one stage of Chapter 3. House Chapter tracks them all — and tells you what should happen next.

Track my move free

Educational information, not professional surveying advice. Cost ranges are indicative national figures. For any condition-3 item, consult the relevant specialist — and query anything unclear directly with your surveyor, who will usually talk it through by phone.