It is the most extensive survey available and includes a visual inspection of the building, its services (e.g. electrics, plumbing, heating) and the grounds as well as concealed areas such as roof spaces, basements and cellars if it is safe to do so. Although the survey will not include any testing on the fabric or services of the building, they will be observed in normal operation i.e. they will be switched on or off and/or operated where the occupier has given permission and it is safe to do so.
The report details the form of construction and materials used for different parts of the property, their condition and will provide an assessment of the relative importance of any defects or problems.
Where the surveyor is unable to reach a conclusion with reasonable confidence, a recommendation for further investigations will be made.
Submit your instant quote request online or call us to request a quote
Create your personal account, sign the terms and conditions, make a payment and track progress.
Your surveyor will complete your property inspection and create your report.
You can then open your report via your personal account. Our handy User Guide can help you understand your report.
The RICS Level 3 Survey is specifically designed for properties built before 1850, any style or condition, including period properties and those of non-standard construction.
If you’re thinking of buying an older property that’s fallen into disrepair, or a building that’s had major alterations, it’s vitally important that you understand the approach needed to maintain the component parts if you’re to preserve – and enhance the value of your investment. For example, listed buildings or those located in conservation areas need specific care, and legislation often requires you to use the correct building materials and techniques.
If you’re planning to alter the structure or make a substantial financial investment in a property of age or character, the RICS Level 3 Survey provides an important safeguard.
To make sure that our RICS Level 3 Survey is the right report for you, check out our which survey guide.
Whether you’re buying a house, thinking of buying a house or just keen to understand more about the home buying process, you’re in the right place. We’ve been helping homebuyers for over 30 years and have national coverage with local experts.
The cost of a RICS Level 3 Survey varies depending on the size, age, and complexity of the property.
As the most comprehensive survey available, it typically costs more than a Level 2, but for an older or non-standard property, the investment is well justified.
Use our quote tool above to get an instant estimate based on your property’s postcode and purchase price.
The RICS Level 1 was formerly known as a condition report. It provides a basic inspection and report into the condition of a property. It is not as indepth as a Level 2 or Level 3.
Your RICS surveyor will NOT give their professional opinion or advice on issues, repairs or maintenance, as they would for higher level surveys. They will only report on the condition.
This is a paper-based/PDF report, and is not digitally interactive, unlike a HomePlus survey.
If you want the most detailed assessment available, the RICS Level 3 Survey goes significantly further than a Level 1, covering construction methods, defect causes, repair implications and cost guidance.
The RICS Level 3 Survey provides a significantly more detailed inspection than a Level 2. It covers construction methods, identifies the probable causes of defects, outlines repair implications and, if required, provides an indication of likely costs.
It is recommended for older, non-standard, significantly altered or complex properties where a Level 2 may not capture the full picture.
There is no legal requirement to have a survey when buying a property in England, Wales or Northern Ireland. However, for any older, non-standard or complex property, a Level 3 Survey is strongly recommended. It is the most thorough inspection available and can reveal costly defects before you commit, potentially saving you thousands in unexpected repair bills after completion.
A RICS Level 3 Survey typically takes 3-8 hours on site, depending on the size and complexity of the property. Older or larger properties with multiple issues to assess will take longer. Your report will be prepared after the inspection and delivered within a few working days.
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