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 (however these should be minimal).
Compare this survey with other levels of survey products:
The RICS Level 2 Home Survey is better suited to more modern properties of standard construction. The RICS Level 3 Survey is specifically designed for properties of almost any age, 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 HomePlus Digital Survey is a fully interactive, digital report, delivered directly to, and accessible on, your device. It offers much more than the standard Level 2:
Defects and areas of concern are given a traffic light rating – so you can quickly review the “Red Lights”.
It includes Energy Saving Trust information about the property’s probable energy costs, carbon emissions, proposed energy improvements and their potential savings.
It also includes local area information, including schools, crime rates and broadband facilities.
There are links to Checkatrade tradespeople, so you can obtain quotes for any repair or maintenance work.
As the report is digital, you get instant access, and can move through the information more easily. You can zoom in on images, so you can see what the surveyor is reporting.
You access the HomePlus Home Survey online, so it is delivered quickly and directly. And when it is available, your surveyor will book a call with you to talk you through the main items and discuss any concerns.
The value is far greater than the cost. The cost of an RICS Level 2 Home Survey varies depending on factors such as size and value of the property being surveyed. However, typically the cost ranges from £400 – £800+. It’s important to remember that this cost is an investment in your future. By having all available information about your potential new home before committing to purchasing it, you can make sure you don’t end up with costly surprises down the line.
As a digital offering, the HomePlus digital survey costs less than the Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 surveys.
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.
The RICS Level 3 Home Survey was formerly known as a Building Survey. It does NOT include a valuation, but does provide a more comprehensive report, going into more detail. If required, the Level 3 may test services (plumbing, electrics, heating) and give an indication into the cost of repair work.
If your property is particularly old, or neglected, or significantly altered or extended, you may need a RICS Level 3 report – the Level 2 may not be adequate.
The Level 3 is a paper-based/pdf, and not a digitally interactive report.
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