How the RICS system works

Condition ratings express urgency of maintenance:

• 1 (Green): No repair needed.

• 2 (Amber): Repair / replacement required but not urgent.

• 3 (Red): Serious or urgent defect, or one needing further investigation.

Likely minor

• Rating 3 applied only to safety caveats (electrics, gas, damp checks).

• Common in older properties without modern certificates.

Potential red flags

• Rating 3 linked to structural movement, roof failure, or active damp.

• Multiple elements marked 3 for the same issue (e.g. walls + floors = widespread moisture).

Risk of not addressing it

Items rated 3 often concern safety-critical or structural issues. Failing to act could void insurance or create legal disclosure issues at resale.

What to do next

Follow up every 3 with trade quotes or specialist reports before exchange. Use verified costs to renegotiate or plan repairs realistically.

Read more here

Survey Limitations Explained

Read Our Full Guide here: Is it Normal for a Survey to Flag So Many Issues?