If you are searching for RICS report writing software, you are probably trying to make the writing stage quicker or easier to manage. The right choice depends on which part of the work is taking your time: recording observations, organising photographs, assembling paragraphs or preparing the first draft.
The Survey Edit is an independent Level 2 report drafting service. You supply your inspection notes, photographs, template and instructions; our surveyor-led team prepares a draft for your review. It is an alternative to doing all the drafting yourself within software, rather than a software product or a RICS-endorsed service.
Discuss your report-writing workload
Looking specifically for a surveyor report typing and drafting service? Our service page sets out the Level 2 scope, handover, fees and turnaround. This comparison explains how that service differs from using report writing software.
Survey report writing software or drafting support?
Software can provide a workspace for entering observations, arranging sections and producing a document. Some systems offer templates, reusable wording or assistance with drafting. Features vary, so check what a particular product actually includes and how it fits your inspection process.
A drafting service changes the handover. Rather than operating another system to compose every paragraph yourself, you send the findings and instructions needed to prepare a first draft. You still need to check that the resulting wording accurately reflects your inspection and advice.
| Consideration | Report writing software | The Survey Edit |
|---|---|---|
| Starting point | Your inputs within the chosen system; requirements vary. | Your located notes, photographs, template and instructions. |
| Writing stage | You use the product’s tools and check its output. | We prepare a Level 2 draft from the supplied material. |
| Cost | Check licence, subscription or usage charges with the supplier. | £179 Standard or £239 Fast Track per report; no subscription required. |
| Final report | You confirm findings and advice before issue. | You review, amend, approve and issue. |
When software may suit your practice
If you want one system for recording inspections and managing the report layout, software may be a useful fit. Ask how it handles photographs, your preferred template, offline working, exported files and revisions. Consider the time needed to learn the workflow, as well as the writing time you expect it to save.
Test with a representative property. Check whether the output preserves locations, construction details, limitations and the distinctions between observations and possible causes. A polished document still needs a professional review.
When a report drafting service may be useful
Drafting support may suit a surveyor who already has an established inspection and reporting process but struggles to find time for the writing stage. Occasional support can help during a full diary without requiring a new subscription or changing the way every inspection is recorded.
A complete handover matters. Unlocated photographs or brief notes that omit the intended advice can create queries and extra review work. Our inspection pack guide explains what to prepare, and the illustrative drafting example shows how an observation and its limitations can be carried into a paragraph.
Could drafting support work alongside your current tools?
Your practice may already use a reporting platform. Before booking, tell us how your template and inspection material can be supplied and how you intend to use the returned draft. Confirm that the handover suits your workflow; compatibility with a named product should not be assumed.
Compare the time you actually save
Count the time spent preparing the instruction, answering queries, reviewing wording and making amendments. Compare that total with your existing process. The useful measure is the time saved after those tasks, rather than the number of features or paragraphs produced.
Use our earnings calculator with your own assumptions. Start with one suitable report to assess the practical fit before planning a larger volume.
Level 2 drafting with clear fees
The Survey Edit’s Standard option is £179 per report, within three working days. Fast Track is £239, within 48 hours. Turnaround starts when the complete inspection pack and required instructions have been received. Confirm availability before booking and read the terms and conditions.
For surveyors preparing RICS Home Survey Level 2 reports, we support the drafting stage while the inspecting surveyor retains responsibility for the findings, professional advice and final report. The Survey Edit is independent and is not affiliated with RICS.
See the full report drafting service, compare typing, transcription and drafting, or tell us what you need help with.