Services

Clear advice before you commit

A property purchase is one of the largest financial commitments you will make. Our role is to give you an independent, expert view of the property’s condition, helping you understand risks, likely repairs and your next steps before you move forward.

Surveys and valuations carried out to RICS standards

DSRS provides RICS Level 2 Surveys and Independent RICS Valuations across Derbyshire and beyond. Our reports are designed to be clear, practical and easy to understand.

RICS Level 2 Survey

Level 2 Survey / HomeBuyer Report

A professional inspection and report for buyers who want clarity before committing to a purchase.

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A RICS Level 2 survey, often called a HomeBuyer Report, is a professional inspection of a property carried out by a surveyor accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

It gives you an independent, expert assessment of a property’s condition before you commit to buying it. This is something a standard mortgage valuation simply does not provide.

The survey can highlight issues such as damp, structural movement, roofing defects or outdated electrics that may not be visible during a viewing. It can also include an independent market valuation.

What the survey typically looks at

  • The overall condition of the property
  • Structural issues such as movement or subsidence
  • Damp, insulation and ventilation
  • The condition of the roof, walls, windows and floors
  • Potential risks and urgent defects
  • Advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance

It can save you money

If the survey reveals defects, you may be able to renegotiate the price or ask the seller to fix issues.

It helps you decide

You receive a clear picture of what you are taking on, so you can proceed with confidence.

It prepares you for future costs

The report highlights current issues and flags potential maintenance or repair work.

Survey booking process

Get a quote

We will ask for the property address, type, age, size and agreed purchase price.

Instruct the survey

You confirm your details, accept the terms of engagement and pay the fee.

Access is arranged

We contact the estate agent or seller to arrange a suitable inspection date.

Survey inspection

The surveyor carries out a visual inspection of key property elements and visible defects.

Report preparation

Your Level 2 report includes condition ratings, identified issues, repair advice and valuation if included.

Delivery and follow-up

You receive the report by email and we call to explain the findings and answer your questions.

Typical timeline: From booking to receiving your report usually takes around 3–7 working days, depending on seller or agent availability.
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Independent RICS Valuations

Independent RICS Valuations

Formal property valuations carried out in accordance with RICS professional standards.

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At DSRS we also offer Independent RICS Valuations. An Independent RICS Valuation is a formal, independent property valuation carried out in accordance with the professional standards set by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

The final report provides an accurate assessment of market value, compliant with RICS standards, and can be relied upon by lenders, solicitors, courts and HMRC.

Unlike informal valuations, such as estate agent appraisals, an Independent RICS Valuation is independent and unbiased, carried out by a regulated professional and legally recognised.

Independent RICS Valuations are required for

  • Buying or selling a property
  • Help to Buy or shared ownership staircasing
  • Probate and inheritance tax
  • Divorce or legal disputes

Independent market value

We inspect the property, review comparable sales and consider location, condition and demand.

RICS compliant report

The report includes the confirmed market value, assumptions, limitations and regulatory compliance.

Support after delivery

We explain the valuation, answer questions and provide clarification where required.

Valuation booking process

Request a quote

We ask for property details, purpose of valuation and any relevant deadlines.

Confirm instruction

You confirm your details, accept the terms of engagement and pay the fee.

Inspection arranged

We arrange access with the agent, owner or tenant at a convenient time.

Property inspection

We assess size, layout, condition, location, surroundings and any major defects.

Valuation analysis

We review comparable sales, market data and current market conditions.

Report and support

You receive the report by email, with support for any questions or clarifications.

Typical timescale: From instruction to receiving the report is usually 2–5 working days, depending on availability.

Need advice on the right service?

We are happy to talk through your property, timescales and requirements before you book.

Speak to Us