RICS Level 3 Building Survey

1. Structural elements: such as walls, roofs, foundations, and floors, are inspected for signs of damage, movement, or decay.
2. Building materials: including brickwork, masonry, timber and roof coverings, and insulation.
3. Services: such as plumbing, heating, electrical and drainage systems are checked for compliance with current regulations and for any defects.
4. Energy efficiency: including insulation and ventilation.
5. Damp and waterproofing: including the detection of rising damp, penetrating damp and other moisture-related issues.
6. Health and safety: including fire protection and fire escape routes, and any hazardous materials used in construction.
7. Planning and building control: including compliance with building regulations and any planning permission requirements.

It’s important to note that the scope of a building survey may vary depending on the specific needs and requirements of the property, and the surveyor conducting the inspection.

1. Level 3 (Building Survey): This is a more comprehensive survey that provides a detailed report on the condition of the property, including information about the construction and materials used, as well as an in-depth analysis of any structural defects, damp problems, or other issues. It is suitable for properties that are older, larger, or in need of significant renovations or alterations.

If you’re unsure which type of survey is best for your needs, it’s recommended to discuss your options with a professional surveyor. They will be able to advise you on the most appropriate type of survey based on the specific needs and requirements of your property.

1. Property purchase: To assess the condition of a property before purchasing it, to ensure that the buyer is aware of any potential issues or problems and to help negotiate a better purchase price.
2. Property renovation: To identify any structural issues or problems that may need to be addressed before carrying out renovations or alterations to a property.
3. Property maintenance: To assess the condition of a property for regular maintenance purposes and to identify any issues that need to be addressed to ensure the property remains in good condition.
4. Legal compliance: To ensure that a property complies with building regulations and to identify any health and safety issues that may need to be addressed.
5. Insurance purposes: To assess the condition of a property for insurance purposes, including liability insurance or damage to the property.

Building surveys can provide valuable information about the condition of a property and help ensure that the buyer, owner, or renovator is aware of any issues that need to be addressed.

1. Structural issues: such as cracks in walls, roofs, or foundations, which can indicate instability or potential safety hazards.
2. Building materials: such as damaged or rotting timber, which can affect the stability and durability of the property.
3. Services: such as outdated electrical wiring or plumbing systems, which may pose a safety risk or require significant upgrades.
4. Damp and waterproofing: such as rising damp or leaks, which can cause damage to the property and create health risks.
5. Health and safety: such as fire hazards or the presence of hazardous materials, which may pose a risk to the occupants.
6. Planning and building control: such as non-compliant building work or a lack of planning permission, which can impact the value and legality of the property.

It’s important to note that the severity of any issues identified in a building survey can vary greatly, and a failed survey does not necessarily mean that the property is not worth buying or inhabiting. The survey report can provide valuable information to help you make informed decisions about whether to proceed with the purchase or renovation, and can also provide valuable negotiating leverage.

It’s important to note that a building surveyor is not a specialist in heating systems, and if a more comprehensive check of the boiler is required, it may be necessary to engage a heating engineer. Additionally, some types of building surveys may have a more limited scope and may not include a check of the boiler. If this is the case, it may be necessary to commission a separate heating system survey or boiler check.

It’s important to note that the extent of the loft inspection will depend on the type of building survey and the specific needs and requirements of the property. If access to the loft is difficult or hazardous, the surveyor may not be able to fully inspect it, and this will be noted in the survey report. In these cases, further inspections may be required, such as by a roofer or other specialist.

It’s important to communicate any concerns or issues raised by the building survey to the seller or their agent as soon as possible. They may be willing to negotiate a lower purchase price, or may be able to provide additional information or reassurance about the condition of the property.

It’s also important to keep in mind that the negotiation process can be complex and may involve legal and financial considerations. Before reducing your offer, it’s recommended to seek the advice of a conveyancer or solicitor, who can help you navigate the process and ensure that your interests are protected.