Know Your Property Inside and Out Before You Buy

Buying a property is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. Whether you are purchasing a period home, an older property, a building that has been altered or extended, or a property that appears to require renovation, understanding its condition before you commit is essential.

Our RICS Level 3 Building Survey provides a comprehensive assessment of the property's construction, condition and visible defects. It is designed to give you a deeper understanding of the building, identify potential problems and explain the implications of defects that could affect your investment.

With detailed findings and practical recommendations, the survey helps you make an informed purchasing decision and plan confidently for any repairs, improvements or ongoing maintenance that may be required.

What Does a RICS Level 3 Building Survey Include?

A Level 3 Building Survey provides a more detailed inspection and report than a Level 2 Home Survey. The inspection focuses on the property's construction, condition, visible defects and the potential causes and consequences of those defects.

Depending on the property and the areas that are accessible, the survey typically includes:

Roof coverings and structure: Inspection of accessible roof areas and visible structural elements, identifying defects, deterioration, water ingress and potential repair requirements.

External walls and structural condition: Assessment of visible cracking, movement, defective masonry, deterioration and other signs of potential structural concerns.

Internal walls, ceilings and floors: Detailed inspection for visible defects, unevenness, dampness, timber decay and signs of movement or deterioration.

Dampness and timber defects: Investigation of visible evidence of moisture penetration, condensation-related concerns, timber decay and wood-boring insect activity where relevant.

Foundations and structural movement: Consideration of visible signs that may indicate movement or other structural issues, while recognising that concealed foundations are not normally exposed.

Windows, doors and joinery: Assessment of their general condition, defects, deterioration and likely maintenance requirements.

Extensions and alterations: Consideration of visible defects associated with additions or alterations, including areas where further investigation may be advisable.

Services and installations: Visual inspection of accessible parts of the electrical, heating, plumbing and drainage systems, without specialist testing.

Condition and repair advice: Explanation of identified defects, their potential implications, recommended remedial work and areas requiring further investigation.

Maintenance and future considerations: Guidance on repair priorities and ongoing maintenance to help you understand the responsibilities and potential costs of owning the property.

The report provides an assessment tailored to the property inspected, helping you understand not just what defects are present, but why they matter and what steps may be needed next.