Can I switch from L1 to L2 mid-write-up?

Not within a single survey. Field schemas differ. Start a new Level 2 survey if depth is needed.

RICS Home Survey Standard 2023 · Level 1

RICS Level 1 Condition Reports — the fastest path to a compliant report

Entry-level RICS Home Survey for properties in apparently good condition. Combined narrative per element, traffic-light ratings, R-flag for documents to request, AI assist on your notes.

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What's in the report

Sections A–L of the RICS Home Survey Standard 2023.

AAbout the inspectionSurveyor, RICS number, client, address, date, weather, property status, related-party disclosure.
BSummary of condition ratingsAuto-generated rating table (CR3/CR2/CR1/NI grouped) + overall opinion + key concerns.
CAbout the propertyProperty type, year built, accommodation, energy rating, mains services, grounds.
DOutside the property9 external elements: chimneys, roof coverings, gutters, walls, windows, doors, conservatory, joinery, other. Combined narrative per element.
EInside the property9 internal elements: roof structure, ceilings, walls, floors, fireplaces, fittings, woodwork, bathrooms, other.
FServices7 services with safety warnings: electricity (RCD/EICR test), gas/oil (Gas Safe), water, heating, water heating, drainage, common services.
GGrounds3 elements: garage, outbuildings, other.
HIssues for legal advisersRegulations, guarantees, boundary issues, rights of way.
IRisksRisks to building, grounds, people, other hazards.
JSurveyor's declarationRICS-aligned AI disclosure block, signed declaration, qualifications.
KFurther investigations & quotesSpecialist investigations, advice on obtaining quotations.
LService description & termsStandard L1 service terms boilerplate.

Why pick Level 1

When the property is modern, in apparent good condition, and the buyer wants speed.

Field structure

Single combined narrative per element

L1 uses one combined field per element (rather than splitting into description / defects / recommendations like L2/L3). Faster to write, faster to review — reflects the entry-level scope.

Validation

Bulk-rate from your notes

Type "CR1 throughout except <list>" and the AI applies CR1 to every in-scope element not in your list. The Summary section auto-populates the condition rating table.

RICS-only

R-flag (Documents to Request)

Independent per-element flag for paperwork: EICR, FENSA, HETAS, boiler commissioning, building regs. Distinct from the CR rating — a CR1 element can still need an R-flag.

Level 1 FAQs

When is a Level 1 Condition Report appropriate?

For modern conventional properties (1930s onwards) in apparently good condition where the buyer wants the basic RICS-compliant condition assessment without the depth of Level 2's narrative split or Level 3's investigation. Often the right product for newer-build resales where major issues are unlikely.

How is Level 1 different from Level 2?

L1 uses a single combined narrative per element; L2 splits into description, defects, and recommendations. L1 has 3 ground elements; L2 has 8. L1 has no EPC discrepancy commentary. L1 is faster to produce; L2 is more thorough.

Can I switch a survey from L1 to L2 mid-write-up?

Not within a single survey — the field schema differs. If the inspection reveals concerns warranting Level 2 depth, the appropriate path is to start a new Level 2 survey for the same property. Notes already captured can be pasted into the new survey's field-notes input.

Does Level 1 include a valuation?

No. Level 1 is condition-only. RICS does not offer an "L1 + Valuation" combination — valuation alongside inspection starts at Level 2 (use the Level 2 + Valuation template).

How does AI help with Level 1 reports?

The AI converts your short on-site notes into the formal combined narrative per element. Strict-literal mode means it never invents materials, measurements, or causes. Bulk rate support: "CR1 throughout except boiler" applies to all in-scope elements. RICS 2026 AI disclosure block automatically populated.