Is a RICS Level 3 Home Survey (Building Survey) Suitable for My Property?

The Building Survey is suited to all property types and ages. However, if you can answer yes to any of the following questions, you need a RICS Level 3 Home Survey (Building Survey)

Property Materials

Is the property of non-standard construction?
(Not made with bricks and mortar)

Property Type

Has the property been extensively modified?

Property Age

Is the property over 100 years old?

Listed Property

Is the property listed?

We carry out a full visual inspection of the property inside and out to include the roof void (providing it is accessible). We carry a number of tools to assist with the inspection including moisture meters so we can check for the levels of damp throughout the property. Our written report will provide detailed information about all defects offering advice and guidance on remedies. This guidance is not offered in a Homebuyer Report. Costings for recommended works are not included but can be included for an additional fee.

With any home survey (including the Building Survey), we do not lift carpets, floorboards, heavy objects or personal effects. However, we are able to piece together all clues (whether from visual, touch, sound or smell) with our knowledge and experience to identify any possible issues. We highlight all defects and offer recommendations if further reports by specialist firms are required (e.g for electrical testing).

Why Get a RICS Level 3 Home Survey?

Defects

A RICS Level 3 Home Survey highlights all potential issues and defects

Maintenance

A RICS Level 3 Home Survey shows you the ongoing maintenance that will be required if you buy the property

Risks

A RICS Level 3 Home Survey advises you on potential hazardous risks

Negotiation

A RICS Level 3 Home Survey will help you establish the cause of any issues and therefore the types of work needed if you buy the property

Compare

What is the RICS Level 3 Home Survey (Building Survey)?

The RICS Building Survey is a more expensive but more in-depth survey and report providing you the best picture and advice about the property in question. The Level 3 Home Survey (Building Survey) report includes:

  • Detailed information on the form of construction, materials and building techniques
  • A detailed description of visible defects affecting the property as well as potential problems caused by hidden flaws and progressive issues
  • Recommendations for any further investigation required to assess the seriousness and costs of major issues identified during the course of the report
  • An outline of repair options and likely consequences of inactivity
  • Recommendations for your legal advisers to investigate or pursue prior to purchase
  • Comment on other risks as well as location and environmental issues.

Compare to our Level 2 Home Survey (Homebuyer Report)

The Homebuyer Report is a shorter report focused on highlighting issues found within the building (without always outlining the cause and solution).

It will provide an idea of the maintenance required after moving in.

The slider image shows the detail of a homebuyer report on the left compared with a building survey on the right side.

About the Level 3 Home Survey

Get your no obligation RICS Level 3 Home Survey Quote

We guarantee a fast and friendly service whatever the type of property and survey. We are very experienced in carrying out detailed and complex Building Surveys on properties across the UK.

Get your quote