A detailed survey for complex properties.
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
A Level 3 Building Survey is suited to older, significantly altered, unusually constructed or more complex properties, as well as homes where significant defects or deterioration may be present.
It provides a more detailed assessment of the property’s construction and condition, including significant defects, their possible causes and implications, and the action that may be required.
What is a Level 3 Building Survey?
About the survey
A Level 3 Building Survey provides a more detailed visual inspection and assessment of the property than a Level 2 Home Survey.
It is intended for properties where the age, construction, condition or extent of alteration makes a more detailed assessment appropriate.
The report explains significant defects in greater detail and, where appropriate, considers their possible causes and implications, together with recommended next steps.
Typically suitable for
Older or period properties, substantially extended or altered homes, unusual forms of construction and properties that appear to be in poor condition or have known defects.
For conventional properties in reasonable condition, a Level 2 Home Survey may provide an appropriate level of assessment.
Unsure whether this is the right survey?
COMPARE LEVEL 2 AND LEVEL 3
What’s included
A more detailed assessment of the property.
The inspection considers the visible condition of accessible elements in greater detail, with particular attention given to the property’s construction, defects, deterioration and areas requiring further investigation.
Detailed consideration of visible roof coverings, junctions and accessible roof structure.
Roof coverings & structure
Chimneys
Visible condition of chimney stacks, pots, flashings and associated defects.
Visible gutters, downpipes, drainage arrangements and signs of leakage or deterioration.
Gutters & rainwater goods
Construction, visible movement, cracking, deterioration and external finishes.
Main walls & elevations
Windows & doors
Visible condition of frames, glazing, seals, joinery and external doors.
Accessible roof spaces inspected where safe and practical, including visible structure and insulation.
Roof spaces
Visible walls, ceilings, floors and joinery, including signs of movement, damp or deterioration.
Interior condition
Accessible parts of the services are visually inspected, but specialist testing is not undertaken.
Services
Grounds, boundaries, permanent outbuildings and accessible drainage chambers are also inspected where safe and accessible. Any restrictions that prevent parts of the property from being inspected will be explained in the report.
Important to know
The inspection is visual and non-invasive. Concealed areas are not opened up, heavy furniture and fitted finishes are not moved, and specialist testing is not undertaken.
Services are visually observed where accessible but are not tested for safety or efficiency.
TaeVora’s Level 3 Building Survey is a survey-only service. It does not include a market valuation or insurance reinstatement figure.
Your Level 3 Building Survey report
Condition ratings
The findings are presented in a clear, structured RICS report using condition ratings to help you understand what requires attention.
No repair currently needed
Continue with normal property maintenance.
Repair or replacement needed
A defect requires attention but is not considered serious or urgent.
Serious or urgent defect
Repair, replacement or further investigation is required urgently.
MORE THAN IDENTIFYING A DEFECT
Understanding what may lie behind it.
A Level 3 Building Survey goes further than simply identifying significant visible defects. Where appropriate, I consider their possible causes, implications and what may need to happen next.
WHAT HAS BEEN FOUND
Clear identification and explanation of significant visible defects.
WHY IT MAY HAVE HAPPENED
Consideration of possible causes, taking account of the property’s age, construction and condition.
WHAT IT COULD MEAN
Explanation of the potential implications for the property, including repairs or future maintenance.
WHAT TO CONSIDER NEXT
Repair, monitoring, further investigation or specialist advice where appropriate.
What you receive
Clear advice, in greater detail.
Your report provides a detailed explanation of significant defects and deterioration, with consideration of likely causes, implications and appropriate repair options.
Looking for something extra?
Drone-assisted and pole-camera inspections, priority report turnaround and indicative repair-cost guidance may be available by prior agreement and for an additional fee.
Take the next steps
Ready to arrange a Level 3 Building Survey?
Request a quotation for the property you’re considering.