RICS Home Condition Report (HCR)

Type of property: conventional house or flat built from common building materials and in reasonable condition.

Type of service: focuses purely on the condition of the property by setting out the following:

  • Clear ‘traffic light’ ratings of the condition of different parts of the building, services, garage and outbuildings, showing problems that require varying degrees of attention
  • A summary of the risks to the condition of the building
  • Highlights areas where guarantees, warranties, planning and other consents need to be investigated by your legal advisers

For awareness: enables a purchaser to allow for essential works, and seek further advice where necessary.  Potentially allows purchasers to negotiate a better deal with the seller. Sellers can also use the report to prevent unforeseen issues cropping up in lender/buyer valuations and surveys.

Valuation included: does not automatically include a valuation; this may be provided as a separate extra service.

Report format: uses standardized RICS report with clear traffic light ratings system.