RICS Home Survey Level 3

RICS Home Survey Level 3


Formerly known as the Building Survey


The level 3 survey which is formerly known as the Building Survey is a full internal and external inspection of the property from top to bottom. This is the most detailed written report available providing further advice regarding cause and remedy of defects and potential issues which could arise should they not be addressed. More minor defects which are not included in the Level 2 Survey report are covered here, and advice is also given to defects which may be present in areas hidden from view. Ultimately, the level 3 survey intends to give you the most comprehensive picture of what state the property that you intend to purchase is in.



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RICS Home Survey Level Three


This level of service is for clients who are seeking a professional opinion based on a detailed assessment of the property.


This report consists of a detailed visual inspection of the building, its services and the grounds and is more extensive than a Home Survey Level 2. Our surveyor will consider your individual concerns and modify their report accordingly. By evaluating the property for any potential defects, identifying their probable cause, and assessing the necessity for repairs, these inspections represent the most detailed form of inspection.


This Includes:

  • Roof Inspection (the surveyor will identify the type and thickness of ceiling, lifting small corners if necessary).
  • Exposed surfaces and floors (the surveyors will lift any loose or unfitted carpet/floor coverings if possible).
  • Observing the standard operation of drains in day-to-day life.
  • If safe to do so, concealed areas normally opened or used by the occupiers will be inspected (typical examples include roof spaces, basements, and cellars).
  • Services are not tested – however they are observed in normal operation – in other words, they are switched on or off and/or operated where the occupier has given permission and it is safe to do so.
  • Windows (if practical, the surveyor will open all windows in the property).
  • Objectively describing the form of construction and the building materials used for different parts of the property.
  • Describe the condition of the property and provide an assessment of the relative importance of any defects and/or problems found at the property.

Therefore, the report will:

  • Describe the identifiable risk of potential or hidden defects in areas not inspected.
  • Propose the most probable cause(s) of the defects based on the inspection.
  • Outline the likely scope of any appropriate remedial work and explain the likely consequences of non-repair.
  • Provide photographs where necessary.
  • Make general recommendations in respect of the priority and likely timescale for necessary work.
  • Give an indication of likely costs (this aspect would not normally form part of the Level Three service, but our surveyors may choose to include it).
  • Where costings are included, this will be reflected in our Terms & Conditions.

If our surveyor feels they are unable to reach the necessary conclusions with reasonable confidence, they will refer the matter for further investigations. However, at Survey Level 3, such referrals will be the exception rather than the rule.


This level of service is suitable for most residential properties in any condition. Recommended for older (pre-war) and unconventional properties that may have undergone major works or need significant renovations. Our 
Home Survey Level 3 reports are prepared in line with RICS guidance, however, should you have any additional requirements, you may consider our Bespoke Survey.


Home Survey Standard 22 RICS Professional Statement – Effective from 1 March 2021





Why do I need a home survey?



If you’re considering purchasing a new property, at CollectiveCM we always recommend commissioning your own independent home survey, which will provide you with a clear understanding of the property’s condition. By having a home survey completed, you’re essentially avoiding any stress and hassle further down the line, as the survey can help you avoid surprises and additional costs for repairs.


Request Sample Report

If your property is a new build then you should consider a Snagging & Defect Report

Snagging & Defect Survey

See below for Level 3 Survey Fees & Booking

Fees & Booking
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