Understanding RPSA / RICS Condition Ratings in Home / House Survey Reports
A RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) / RPSA (Residential Property Surveyors Association) condition rating provides a standardised assessment of a property’s or building’s condition. Our surveyors use the same format and assign these ratings following a visual inspection, considering factors such as age, construction methods, maintenance history, and observed defects.
Our home surveys are designed for straightforward comprehension and are written in plain English, utilising a traffic light system to highlight key issues. The typical RICS / RPSA rating scale comprises three primary condition ratings, with an additional designation for uninspected elements:
- Condition Rating 1 (Green): Indicates that the assessed element or component is in good or excellent condition, with no significant defects requiring immediate repair or maintenance. While immediate action is not necessary, the report often contains valuable information on construction and maintenance, which can be beneficial for future property management and improvements.
- Condition Rating 2 (Amber): Suggests the presence of defects, signs of wear and tear, or minor issues that may necessitate attention in the near future. These elements are generally functional but are not in optimal condition. An amber rating indicates defects that should eventually be addressed through repair or replacement. While not considered serious or urgent, diligent maintenance or rectification is important. The report provides insights into potential future problems if these issues are neglected, aiding in informed decision-making regarding property acquisition, renegotiation, or alternative options. It is crucial to understand that amber ratings, while not immediately critical, warrant careful consideration and discretion regarding further investigation, replacement, or repair. Property owners should assess potential expenses and incorporate the surveyor’s advice on maintenance and future challenges related to these elements.
- Condition Rating 3 (Red): Signifies significant defects, serious issues, or major maintenance requirements identified in the assessed element or component. This rating indicates that immediate repair, replacement, or further investigation is necessary to ensure proper functioning or prevent further deterioration. Red ratings demand urgent attention and should never be disregarded. Such findings can serve as a strong basis for price negotiation or reconsideration of the purchase decision, and further professional investigation into red-rated issues is highly advisable.
- NI – Not Inspected: This designation indicates that the specific element or component was not accessible or inspectable during the survey.
Otto Surveys will ensure that you will receive great efficient service from our surveyors along with getting an easy to read report, when you book us for your full residential home / property survey or commercial property survey, all at an affordable price starting from only £385.
Our comprehensive home / house / property survey coverage extends across West Yorkshire, North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, the North East, North West, and the Midlands. Key service areas include, but are not limited to: Leeds, Baildon, Barnsley, Batley, Bingley, Bishop Auckland, Birmingham, Blackpool, Bradford, Brierley, Brighouse, Burnley, Bolton, Calderdale, Castleford, Chester, Cheshire, Cleckheaton, Conisbrough, Coventry, Cumbria, Darlington, Derby, Dewsbury, Dinnington, Doncaster, Goldthorpe, Greater Manchester, Guiseley, Halifax, Harrogate, Haworth, Holmfirth, Hoyland, Huddersfield, Hull, Ilkley, Keighley, Knaresborough, Lancashire, Leeds, Leicester, Leicestershire, Liverpool, Maltby, Manchester, Middlesbrough, Mirfield, Nelson, Normanton, Nottingham, Oldham, Ossett, Otley, Penistone, Pickering, Preston, Prestwich, Pudsey, Queensbury, Richmond, Ripon, Rotherham, Saltaire, Scarborough, Sheffield, Shipley, Skipton, Stockbridge, Stockport, Stretford, Tadcaster, Wakefield, Wath upon Dearne, Wetherby, Whitby, Yeadon, York, Warrington and other cities.
