Home surveys
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
A detailed inspection of the structure and fabric, setting out the causes of defects, their likely consequences, and the options for putting them right.
Best suited to
- Period, solid-walled and stone-built property
- Barn conversions, listed buildings and conservation-area property
- Extended or substantially altered houses
- Property where damp, cracking or roof problems are already visible
What is included
- Detailed inspection of the structure and fabric
- The cause of each significant defect, not just its symptom
- Repair options, likely sequence and relative urgency
- Comment on construction type, past alterations and their consequences
- A follow-up call with James to talk the report through
Why it suits border-country property
Much of the housing stock across the Forest of Dean, the Wye Valley and the Brecon Beacons is solid stone, rubble-filled or timber-framed, often with later cement renders, replaced roof coverings and modern extensions. Those combinations create the damp and movement patterns that a condition-rating survey can note but not explain.
A Level 3 is written to explain them, so you can price the work or renegotiate with evidence.
Specific concerns
If a single issue is the reason for the survey — a crack, a damp wall, a suspect roof — a focused specific defect inspection may serve you better and cost less. Say so when you enquire and you will get an honest recommendation.
The other levels
RICS Level 1 Home Survey
The most concise of the three RICS home survey levels. A visual inspection with condition ratings, suited to modern, conventionally built and apparently well-maintained property.
RICS Level 2 Home Survey
The standard choice for conventionally built houses and flats in reasonable order. All reasonably accessible areas are inspected, defects are explained, and repairs and maintenance are advised on.
Talk to the surveyor, not a call centre
Describe the property and you will get an honest recommendation and a fixed quote.