Building Surveys
Also known as a RICS Level 3 Home Survey - the most thorough inspection available for residential properties.
A thorough inspection from top to bottom
A Building Survey is the most detailed residential survey available. It goes further than a Homebuyer Report, covering not just visible defects but also the likely cause, the potential impact and what you may need to do about them.
It is particularly suited to older, larger or more complex properties - or any home where you want a thorough understanding of what you are buying before committing.
The report is written in plain English and gives you a clear picture of the property's condition, including any issues that may need further investigation or specialist attention.
When to choose a Building Survey
A Building Survey is recommended whenever you want a comprehensive understanding of the property - especially in any of the following situations.
Older properties
Homes built before the 1900s or using traditional construction methods that may have unique issues.
Extended or altered homes
Properties that have been significantly extended, converted or modified - where the quality of work may be unknown.
Listed buildings
Listed or unusual properties where specialist knowledge is needed to assess condition and repair requirements.
Properties needing renovation
Homes you plan to renovate or improve, where knowing the full extent of work required is essential.
Visible defects or concerns
If you have already noticed cracks, damp, settlement or other issues and want a thorough assessment.
Larger homes
Larger or more complex properties where a more detailed inspection gives you better value and protection.
Homebuyer Report vs Building Survey
Not sure which survey is right for you? Here is a quick comparison to help you decide.
Homebuyer Report
RICS Level 2 - Standard survey
- Covers visible and accessible parts of the property
- Traffic light condition ratings (1, 2, 3)
- Suitable for conventional homes in reasonable condition
- Quicker to produce and typically lower cost
- Does not assess cause of defects in depth
- Less detail on repair options and cost implications
Building Survey
RICS Level 3 - Comprehensive survey
- In-depth inspection of all accessible areas
- Assesses the cause and severity of defects
- Suitable for older, larger or unusual properties
- Includes advice on repair options
- Highlights areas needing further specialist investigation
- Greater detail on risk, urgency and next steps
Not sure which is right for you? Get in touch and we will help you decide.
What the survey covers
A Building Survey includes a thorough inspection of all accessible parts of the property, with greater depth and detail than a Homebuyer Report. The surveyor will look at:
- Roof structure, coverings, chimneys and guttering
- Walls - both external and internal - including cracks and movement
- Floors, ceilings and roof spaces where accessible
- Damp, timber condition, rot and infestation
- Extensions, alterations and any structural changes
- Windows, doors and external joinery
- Drainage, services and heating (visual inspection)
- Outbuildings, garages and boundary structures
What you receive
After the inspection you will receive a detailed written report covering:
- A description of each defect found, its cause and potential impact
- Recommendations for repair and any areas needing specialist investigation
- Guidance on urgency and priority
- Notes on legal and planning matters to raise with your solicitor
- A summary of the main risks
For roofs and high-level areas that are difficult to access, we can also arrange a Drone Survey to capture detailed imagery without scaffolding.
Frequently asked questions
A Homebuyer Report identifies visible defects and gives them a condition rating. A Building Survey goes further - it looks at the cause of defects, their likely impact and what you should do about them. It is more detailed, more thorough and better suited to older or more complex properties.
The inspection itself typically takes between four and eight hours depending on the size and complexity of the property. You will usually receive your written report within a few working days of the inspection.
Yes. If the survey identifies significant defects or repair costs, this can give you strong grounds to renegotiate the asking price or ask the seller to carry out remedial work before exchange. The detail provided in a Building Survey report makes it particularly useful for this purpose.
For older, larger or more complex properties, a Building Survey almost always represents good value. The cost of the survey is small compared to the cost of unexpected repairs after purchase. Knowing the true condition of the property lets you make a fully informed decision and, in many cases, negotiate a better price.
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Get a quote for your Building Survey
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote.