Level 3 · RICS Building Survey
A Level 3 survey for an older or altered home
The deeper survey. A RICS surveyor works out why a defect is there, what it will take to put right, and what it is likely to cost — then writes it down in language you can use.
from £550
Fixed price by property value. Confirmed before you book.
Get a quote
Is this the right survey for you?
- Built before 1900, or of stone, timber-frame or other non-standard construction
- Listed, or in a conservation area
- Extended, converted, or altered without obvious paperwork
- Visibly run down, empty for a while, or part-renovated
- Damp, cracking, subsidence or the roof has already been mentioned to you
What a Level 3 doesn't do
- — It is not a full opening-up survey; finishes are not cut into
- — Services are inspected and assessed, not tested by an engineer
- — Specialist reports (structural engineer, drainage CCTV) are recommended where needed
- — Repair costs are realistic ranges, not tendered builder's prices
What's inspected
- Roof structure and coverings, entered where safe
- Chimneys, parapets, flashings and rainwater goods
- Walls, including construction type, cracking and movement history
- Damp investigation with meter readings and likely causes
- Timber condition: rot, beetle and past treatment
- Floors and sub-floor voids where hatches allow
- Windows, doors and joinery, with replacement priorities
- Heating, hot water, electrics and drainage, visually and by age
- Insulation, ventilation and condensation risk
- Extensions and conversions, and whether they look compliant
- Grounds, retaining walls, trees and drainage runs
- Costed repair schedule with priorities and further investigations
How long it takes
Day 0
You book and pay the fixed fee, and we arrange access with the agent.
Day 2–5
The inspection takes place, usually three to five hours on site.
+5–7 working days
Your report arrives, then the surveyor calls to talk it through.