RICS Level 3 Survey
The RICS Level 3 Home Survey is the most detailed survey available for residential property. It was previously known as a Full Building Survey or Structural Survey. It is designed for properties where you need a deeper understanding of how the building is constructed, what condition it is in, and what it might need in the future.
Who is a Level 3 survey for?
A Level 3 survey is recommended if the property:
- is older, particularly pre-1920 or listed
- is of unusual or non-standard construction
- has been significantly extended or altered
- is in poor condition or needs renovation
- is one where you're planning major works, such as extensions, loft conversions or structural alterations
What's included
A Level 3 survey covers everything in a Level 2, in greater depth, plus:
- Construction and materials. The report explains how the property is built and how its materials are likely to perform over time.
- Detailed defect analysis. It covers the likely cause of each defect, not just its presence.
- Hidden defect risks. Where visible evidence suggests something may be concealed, the report explains the risk.
- Repair options. It sets out repair options, with guidance on urgency.
- Consequences of doing nothing. It explains what could happen if repairs are not carried out.
- Everything from a Level 2. Traffic-light condition ratings, services commentary, legal matters for your conveyancer, and risks to the building and people.
Level 2 or Level 3: which do I need?
Choose a Level 2 survey for a conventional home in reasonable condition.
Choose a Level 3 survey if the property is older, unusual, altered or in need of work, or if you want detailed advice before planning renovations.
Not sure? Get in touch. I'd rather recommend the right survey than sell you the most expensive one.
Why choose Dowdall Surveying?
- Independent advice. My report is written for you, with no ties to the estate agent, the seller or your lender.
- Local knowledge. Based in Mansfield, covering all of Nottinghamshire, including Sutton-in-Ashfield, Kirkby-in-Ashfield, Nottingham, West Bridgford, Beeston, Newark, Southwell, Worksop and Retford.
- Properly qualified. I'm an AssocRICS surveyor and RICS Registered Valuer, working to the RICS Home Survey Standard, with 5-star customer reviews.
- One point of contact. The same surveyor from your first call to the final report, and I'm always happy to talk the findings through with you.
How much does a Level 3 survey cost?
A Level 3 survey involves a longer inspection and a more detailed report, so it costs more than a Level 2. Prices start at £800, so please request a quote and we will get back to you with a tailored fee usually within the hour.
Frequently asked questions
Choose a Level 3 survey if the property is older, listed, of unusual construction, has been heavily extended or altered, is in poor condition, or you're planning major works. If you're unsure, give me a call and I'll recommend the right level for the property.
The Level 3 survey replaced what used to be called a Full Building Survey or Structural Survey. It assesses the whole property in detail, including its structure. It is different from a structural engineer's report, which focuses on a specific structural problem. I'll recommend one if the survey finds that it's needed.
The report sets out repair options and how urgent each one is. Where significant work is needed, I recommend getting quotes from suitable contractors before you exchange contracts. Dowdall Surveying does not provide costs as part of the service.
The inspection usually takes 3-6 hours, depending on the size, age and complexity of the property. The report typically follows within 7 working days, but we aim to get it to you as soon as possible.
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