The survey
What a RICS Level 3 building survey is
A RICS Level 3 Building Survey is a full visual inspection of all accessible parts of the building, leading to a detailed report on its condition. It is the most thorough of the RICS home surveys.
The report does more than list what is wrong. It explains the likely causes of defects and the repair options, so you can decide how to proceed before you commit to a purchase, or plan work on a home you already own.
Is it the right survey?
Who a Level 3 survey suits
A Level 3 survey is usually the right choice if the property is:
— Older, larger or of unusual construction
— Listed, period, stone-built or rural
It is not always about age. A newer house that has been a challenging build can need the same level of detail.
— Extended, converted or altered
— In poor condition or in need of repair
— One you plan to renovate or extend
Causes and repair options
Defects are investigated to find the likely cause and the sensible remedy, not just recorded.
What is included
What your Level 3 survey covers
Detailed inspection
A full visual inspection of all accessible parts of the building, including lofts, cellars, sub-floor areas and permanent outbuildings.
Damp, timber and decay
An assessment of dampness, timber condition, rot and beetle infestation.
Building services
Heating, electrical, gas or oil, water and drainage are considered, subject to access.
Clear photographs
Photographs are included in a report that is set out to be easy to read.
Optional extras
A market valuation, a rebuild cost assessment for insurance, or a drone roof inspection can be added to the same instruction.
Specialist knowledge
Rural, country, listed and older properties
Rural and country properties fall under a Level 3 survey, and they are where the detail matters most. Stone walls, lime mortars, older roofs and unusual layouts behave differently from modern construction.
David Knight MRICS MISVA, a Chartered Building Surveyor and RICS Registered Valuer who qualified in 1990, specialises in older and complex properties, including listed and rural buildings.
Listed and heritage buildings
A listed or historic building needs repairs that suit its age and materials. The report explains its condition and what is likely to need attention.
Stone-built and older homes
Solid stone walls, stone and slate roofs and chimneys age in particular ways. The survey looks at pointing, damp, roof structure and timber, and the effect of later alterations.
Farms, barns and country houses
We have completed numerous Level 3 surveys on complex rural properties. Where wanted, we can also advise on redevelopment of deteriorated buildings, including design and cost guidance.
Unusual builds and buildings in poor condition
Dilapidated, unusual or self-built properties need a clear picture of condition before you commit. The report sets out the defects, their likely causes and the repair options. We carry out these surveys across West and North Yorkshire.
One problem to look at
Specific defect report
Worried about one issue, such as cracking or damp? You get an expert view of the cause and the fix, without a full survey.
Which survey do I need?
Level 3, Level 2 or a specific defect report?
We'll always recommend the survey a property needs, and nothing more.
Not sure which you need? Call us on 0113 293 0600, or see all home surveys.
A conventional home
RICS Level 2 Home Survey
A conventional house or flat built from common materials, in reasonable condition and not being significantly altered. You get condition ratings, key defects and the issues your solicitor needs to know about.
This page
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
For older, larger, listed, rural, altered or run-down properties, or one you plan to renovate or extend. Our most detailed inspection, with causes and repair options.
QUESTIONS
About Level 3 building surveys
Is a Level 3 survey the same as a full structural survey?
People often say full structural survey for what is now called a RICS Level 3 Building Survey. It is a detailed visual inspection of the whole property by a chartered building surveyor, with the causes of defects and the repair options explained.
Is a Level 3 survey right for a rural or listed property?
Yes. A Level 3 survey is the right choice for farms, barns, country houses and listed or heritage buildings, and for older stone-built homes. David Knight specialises in older and complex properties, including listed and rural buildings.
Will I be able to talk to the surveyor?
You can speak to the surveyor who inspected the property about the findings.
Can a valuation be added to a Level 3 survey?
Yes. A market valuation and a rebuild cost assessment for insurance can be added as optional extras, so you get them from one inspection.
What if the survey finds a problem?
We explain any significant issues clearly and in proportion, and help you understand your options, from further checks and repair quotes to renegotiating the price.
Get a fee quote
Tell us about the property
Send an enquiry and we'll call you to discuss the property, or we can email the fee quote if you prefer.
CALL
0113 293 0600
admin@knightsurveys.co.uk
VISIT
Network House, Lister Hill, Horsforth, Leeds LS18 5AZ
