The RICS Home Survey Level 3 (RICS Building Survey) is our most comprehensive survey and focuses on assessing the specific condition of the property.
The Level 3 service includes a detailed and thorough visual inspection of accessible parts of the building, its services and grounds and includes the following additional features:
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A comprehensive visual inspection and specific assessment of all accessible areas, including detailed information about the structure and fabric of the property
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Description of identifiable risks of potential or hidden defects in areas not inspected / accessible
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Proposal of the most probable cause(s) of defects and issues
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Provides recommendations in respect of the priority and likely timescale for necessary work
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Further information on dampness issues, condensation, and timber defects
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Commentary provided on energy related matters and advise on the appropriateness of energy improvements recommended by the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
This survey type is suitable for any property however, it is most suited to properties that are:
- greater than 50 years old
- in a poor state of repair
- have undergone significant structural alteration
- of unusual construction and or building materials
The survey report objectively describes the form of construction and materials used for different parts of the property. The report will advise on the implications of defects present at the property and describes in greater depth the likely cause of the issues and how they should be rectified. The report provides an assessment of the relative importance and prioritisation of defects and problems using a clear 'traffic light' condition rating system.
Additionally, the report will highlight any legal issues and obvious risks to the building, people and grounds. Concealed areas such as roof spaces, basements and cellars will be inspected where safe to do so.
Advice on repairs and ongoing maintenance issues is provided and the consequences of not acting are explained. Additionally, we offer a follow up phone call to discuss the outcome of the survey report with you.
Where the surveyor is unable to reach a conclusion with reasonable confidence about any aspect of the property, a recommendation for further investigations will be made. The occurrence of this should be less with the Level 3 survey due to the thoroughness of the property inspection and greater depth of advice given in the report.