RICS Level 3 Building Survey
The RICS Level 3 Building Survey — formerly known as a Full Structural Survey — is the most comprehensive home survey available. It provides an in-depth technical examination of every aspect of the property, from foundations to roof.
Designed for period and historic properties, listed buildings, homes in poor condition, buildings of unusual construction and any property you plan to renovate or extend. Includes detailed repair cost estimates and a long-term maintenance plan.
Level 3 Building Survey
Our Home Surveyor & Property Valuer Accreditation & Professional Membership
Our RICS Level 3 Building Surveys are carried out by qualified surveyors who belong to the professional bodies that set UK property standards. Every report is prepared to recognised guidance and is completely independent, so you can rely on the findings when you buy, sell or value a home.
What Is a Building Survey?
The RICS Level 3 Building Survey — formerly called a Full Structural Survey — is the most detailed and comprehensive home survey available. It provides a thorough technical examination of a property's condition, construction and materials, delivering a report that covers every accessible part of the building in forensic detail.
What It Covers
- A comprehensive structural assessment from foundations to roof
- In-depth inspection of all accessible areas including roof spaces, sub-floor areas and cellars
- Detailed technical descriptions of construction methods and materials used
- All visible defects identified, analysed and described in detail
- Estimated costs for significant repairs
- Recommendations for further specialist investigations where needed
- A prioritised schedule of repairs and ongoing maintenance
What It Does Not Cover
- Invasive testing that damages the building fabric
- Testing of gas, electrical or drainage installations (visual check only)
- A market valuation (available as an add-on service)
- Moving furniture, fitted carpets or heavy stored items
- Areas that are permanently inaccessible or concealed
Is It Right for You?
The Building Survey is the right choice for some properties — but a Level 2 survey may be more appropriate for others. Here is how to tell.
Suitable For
- Period and historic properties
- Listed buildings
- Buildings in poor condition
- Properties of unusual construction
- Homes you plan to renovate or extend
Not Suitable For
- Modern properties in good condition (consider Level 2)
- New-build homes (consider Snagging Survey)
Not sure which survey you need? Speak to a surveyor for free, no-obligation advice.
What Is Included
Every RICS Level 3 Building Survey we produce includes the following as standard.
Full Structural Assessment
Comprehensive evaluation of the building's structure from foundations to roof.
Detailed Technical Report
In-depth technical descriptions of construction, materials and all defects found.
Repair Specifications
Detailed repair recommendations including likely costs and timescales.
Accessible Area Inspection
Inspection of roof spaces, sub-floor areas, cellars and behind accessible hatches.
Material Analysis
Assessment of building materials, their condition and expected remaining lifespan.
Long-Term Maintenance Plan
Prioritised schedule of repairs, renewals and ongoing maintenance.
How the Building Survey Process Works
From enquiry to report — thorough, transparent and professional.
Get a Quote
Contact us with the property details. We respond within 24 hours with a fixed-price quote for your Building Survey.
Book Inspection
Choose a convenient date. We schedule within 5–10 working days and confirm in writing.
Surveyor Inspects
The surveyor spends 3–8 hours at the property conducting an exhaustive inspection of every accessible area.
Receive Report
Your comprehensive technical report with repair estimates and maintenance plan is delivered within 7–10 working days.
Building Survey Questions
What is the difference between a Building Survey and a HomeBuyer Survey?
A Building Survey (Level 3) is far more comprehensive than a HomeBuyer Survey (Level 2). It provides a much more detailed technical examination of the property, inspects areas not covered in a Level 2 (like under floorboards and deep into roof spaces), gives cost estimates for repairs, provides a detailed maintenance schedule, and uses more technical language. The Building Survey is designed for older, unusual or poor-condition properties; the HomeBuyer Survey suits modern, conventional homes in reasonable condition.
How much does a Building Survey cost?
Our Building Survey (RICS Level 3) starts from approximately £595 ex VAT. The price varies based on the size, age, complexity and location of the property. We provide a fixed-price quote within 24 hours. Listed buildings, very large properties and those in poor condition typically fall at the higher end of the price range.
How long does a Building Survey inspection take?
A Building Survey inspection typically takes between 3 and 8 hours on site, depending on the size and condition of the property. This is significantly longer than a HomeBuyer Survey inspection (2–4 hours) because the surveyor examines everything in far greater detail, including entering roof spaces, lifting accessible floorboards and inspecting behind accessible panels and hatches.
Will the Building Survey tell me how much repairs will cost?
Yes. A key benefit of the Building Survey over the Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey is that it includes estimated costs for significant repairs identified during the inspection. These estimates help you budget for immediate repairs, plan for future maintenance and — in a purchase situation — negotiate the price with the seller based on real cost data rather than guesswork.
Get a Fixed-Price Building Survey Quote
Free, no-obligation quote within 24 hours. Includes detailed repair cost estimates.