RICS Level 3 Building Survey

What Altura's Level 3 Building Survey includes

Our RICS Level 3 Building Survey is a detailed, narrative condition survey of the property — the most comprehensive survey defined under the RICS Home Survey Standard. The surveyor carries out a close, methodical inspection of the accessible parts of the building and produces a written report that explains the construction and condition of each element, the nature and significance of any defects, and the appropriate repair or further-investigation options.

• A thorough inspection of all visible and accessible parts of the property, including roof spaces and sub-floor voids where accessible
• A detailed narrative report on the property's construction and condition
• An explanation of the nature and significance of any defects found
• Advice on appropriate repair or further-investigation options
• Guidance on the implications of defects if left unattended

For a full explanation of what a Level 3 Building Survey is, what the surveyor inspects, and its limitations, read our guide to the RICS Level 3 Building Survey.

Who this service is for

A Level 3 Building Survey is the more useful choice where a property is not broadly typical of its type, or where a deeper understanding of its construction and condition would genuinely affect your decision. It is particularly suited to:

• Older or period properties — Victorian, Edwardian, Georgian and earlier
• Listed buildings, and older or altered properties within conservation areas where the construction or condition warrants a more detailed assessment
• Buildings of unusual or non-standard construction — timber frame, thatch, stone or other non-traditional construction systems
• Properties that have been significantly extended, converted or altered
• Properties in visibly poor condition
• Properties where you intend to carry out substantial alterations or refurbishment

Property value alone does not determine the appropriate survey level. If you are unsure whether Level 2 or Level 3 is right for your property, our Level 2 vs Level 3 guide sets out the differences, or contact us with the property details and we will advise before you book.

What to expect

The on-site inspection typically takes half a day to a full day depending on the size, age and complexity of the property. The written report is delivered within 5 working days of the inspection. It is structured around the individual elements of the building, with an executive summary of overall condition and the most significant findings, and detailed commentary on each element explaining what was found, why it matters and what should be done.

If anything in the report is unclear, or you would like to talk through the findings before deciding how to proceed, you can discuss them with the surveyor — that post-survey conversation is part of the service, not a separate cost.

Why instruct Altura

• RICS-regulated practice — our surveys are carried out to the RICS Home Survey Standard
• Independent and survey-only — we do not undertake repair work, so our advice has no commercial bias
• Local expertise across Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire, including period, altered and non-standard properties
• A clear, narrative report delivered within 5 working days
• Post-survey discussion included as part of the service

Areas we cover

We carry out Level 3 building surveys across Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire. We regularly survey properties in Farnham, Alton, Hook, Hartley Wintney, Basingstoke, Winchester, Fleet and Newbury, as well as all surrounding towns. View our full coverage area.

Frequently asked questions