Your RICS Level 3 Home Survey

What is a Level 3 Home Survey?

Understanding the RICS Level 3 Home Survey

The RICS Home Survey Level 3 (also known as a Full Building Survey) is the highest level of pre-acquisition survey for residential property. 

The RICS Home Survey Level 3 is a detailed visual inspection of all visible and accessible internal and external elements of the property including any permanent outbuildings.

The services are visually inspected but not extensively tested. The report, based on the findings of the inspection will include a detailed description of the structure and main components of the building(s) along with diagnosis of defects and remedial options.

It will also advise on suspected defects with advice on further investigation and repair. 

Your Property

Do I need a Level 3 Survey?

A RICS Home Survey Level 3 can be used for any type of property but is particularly advised if your property is:

  • Built before 1850
  • In an obvious state of disrepair
  • A listed building
  • Much larger than average
  • Of non-traditional construction
  • Of unusual or complex design

Why Get a RICS Level 3 Home Survey?

An RICS Home Survey Level 3 is the most comprehensive survey available for residential property. Here's why you might choose this survey.

01
In-Depth Inspection
Provides an in-depth visual inspection of the building, its services and the grounds, including concealed areas such as roof voids and basements where safe to do so. Includes a detailed report of the construction and description of all building elements.
02
Identifies Major and Minor Defects
Provides diagnosis of both minor and major defects with recommendations for remedial work, as well as identifying suspected defects with recommendations for specialist/further investigation.
03
Essential for Older or Unique Properties
Recommended for properties built before 1850, those of non-traditional construction, properties in an obvious state of disrepair, or those that are much larger than average or have been/plan to be extensively extended or improved.
04
Peace of Mind
Enables you to make informed decisions regarding your purchase and gives you a better understanding of repair and maintenance costs before you commit.

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What’s included in a Report?

Every Level 3 survey includes the following as standard:

  • A colour-coded system highlighting areas of concern (Green, Amber, Red).

  • Evaluation of key elements such as walls, roofs, floors, windows, and services.

  • Recommendations for further investigations or repairs if needed.

  • A comprehensive assessment of the construction of the property

  • A technical analysis of defects and advice on further recommendations

  • Descriptions of less significant defects or any further shortcomings 

  • Advice on suspected defects

  • Photographic record of defects

A RICS Level 3 Survey is the most thorough way to safeguard your investment and make well-informed decisions on older, larger or more complex properties

Traffic light rating guide with red for serious defects, amber for non-serious repairs needed, and green for no repairs needed.
Cutaway diagram of a house showcasing structural elements, including the roof, walls, and foundation, with numbered labels indicating different sections.

Example Report

See what a completed Level 3 survey report looks like before you book

Survey Report

This report contains…

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