RICS Level 3 Building Survey
Clear, honest advice to help you buy with confidence — from independent RICS-regulated surveyors focused on quality, not volume reports.
Our RICS Level 3 Building Survey is the most detailed inspection available and is particularly suited to older, extended, altered or non-standard properties.
It provides an in-depth assessment of the structure, condition and performance of the building — helping you understand not just what is wrong, but why, how serious it is, and what it may cost to address.
You’ll receive clear, practical advice from independent RICS-regulated surveyors — not just technical commentary, but considered guidance to support confident decision-making.
What’s Included:
• Thorough inspection of accessible interior, exterior and permanent outbuildings
• Assessment of structural movement, defects and previous alterations
• Roof space and chimney inspection (drone or pole camera where required)
• Identification of dampness, ventilation and insulation issues
• Review of visible services (heating, electrics, plumbing and drainage)
• Detailed defect analysis with causes and repair guidance
• Legal matters your solicitor should investigate
• Environmental and location risk checks included
• Photographic evidence throughout
Although non-intrusive, this survey provides detailed technical insight and practical repair advice to help you understand future maintenance and potential costs.
When Do You Need a Level 3 Survey?
A Level 3 Building Survey is recommended for properties built before approximately 1900, homes that have been significantly extended or altered, properties with non-standard construction such as timber frame, thatched or flat roofs, and any property where you have specific concerns about structure, damp or condition. If you are purchasing an older home in Bournemouth, Poole or Southampton, a Level 3 survey provides the most complete picture of the property before you commit.
What Makes Our Level 3 Survey Different?
Our surveyors do not produce volume reports. Each Level 3 Building Survey is written specifically for your property, with practical advice on what the defects mean, how serious they are and what remedial action is likely to cost. We include a drone or pole camera roof inspection as standard, along with a desktop environmental and location risk review — both included at no extra cost.
Fast Turnaround Available
Inspections Often Arranged within Days
Fixed, Transparent Pricing
No Hidden Costs - Ever
Every property is different. Get in touch for a personalised quote tailored to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a RICS Level 3 Building Survey?
A RICS Level 3 Building Survey is the most detailed inspection available. A RICS-regulated surveyor assesses the structure, condition and performance of the building, explaining not just what is wrong but why, how serious it is, and what it may cost to put right. It is delivered in plain English with clear condition ratings.
What properties need a Level 3 survey?
A Level 3 survey suits older, larger, extended, altered or non-standard properties, and any home with known or suspected defects. Period homes, listed buildings, properties with structural movement and homes built with unusual materials all benefit from this level of detail.
What does a Level 3 survey find that a Level 2 doesn't?
A Level 3 survey investigates the causes of defects, not just their presence. It explains likely repair options, assesses the structure in more depth, reviews visible services, and gives a full risk assessment. A Level 2 tells you what is wrong. A Level 3 tells you why, how serious it is, and what to do about it.
How much does a Level 3 Building Survey cost?
Our fees are fixed and transparent with no hidden costs. A RICS Level 3 Building Survey starts from £630, with the final fee based on the property's purchase price or market value. Every survey includes a free desktop research package and, where suitable, a free drone roof inspection. Contact us for a personalised quote.
How long does a Level 3 survey take and when do I get the report?
The inspection is more thorough than a Level 2 and takes longer on site. We typically arrange the inspection within 5 to 7 working days of instruction, subject to vendor permission, and deliver your report within 4 to 5 working days of the inspection.
Should I get a Level 3 survey on a Victorian or period property?
Yes. Older and period properties often have age-related issues such as structural movement, damp, dated services and past alterations. A Level 3 survey gives the depth of analysis these properties need, so you understand the condition and likely future costs before you commit.