RPSA Level 3 Home Survey - Structural Survey
RPSA Level 3 Home Survey - Structural Survey
An RPSA Level 3 Home Survey is the most comprehensive survey report. Also known as a 'Building Survey’. It provides you with an extensive, in-depth analysis of the property’s condition and includes advice on defects, repairs and maintenance options. Choose an RICS/RPSA Level 3 Home Survey if you’re dealing with a large, older or run-down property, a building that is unusual or altered, or if you’re planning major works. The level 3 Survey however is suitable for any and all types of property and provides an unparalleled level and depth of inspection and report.
The format of the Level 3 Home Survey, or Building Survey report, is consistent with the Residential Property Surveyors Association’s Survey Inspection and Reporting Standards Edition 1 v5.2 and the RICS Home Survey Standard which came into effect on 1 March 2021.
As the Level 2 Home Survey, the report uses a clear ‘1, 2, 3’ rating system, in an easy-to-read format, with relevant supporting images. The Level 3 Home Survey is an extremely thorough inspection, and goes above and beyond the detail of a Level 2 Building Survey.
What is included in a RPSA Level 3 Structural Survey?
- A thorough, impartial property assessment from an RPSA Building Surveyor
- Visual inspection of all internal and external building elements, including walls and ceilings, roof and guttering, doors and windows
- Assessment of structural problems such as subsidence, damp issues and timber decay, including woodworm and rot
- Where possible, indicative costs to help understand the value of works required
- Advice regarding guarantees, planning and building control issues, disputes etc, to be followed up by your conveyancer
- A Jargon free and clear report with clear findings and recommendations, with annotated images
- A full report emailed via PDF within 5 working days. Hard copy available for additional cost
- Talk to your surveyor on the day of inspection with a follow up phone call to explain their findings. You will also have ongoing access via email and telephone to ask any follow up questions
Choose Your Survey
Professional services tailored to your needs. From basic assessments to comprehensive solutions.
Pre-completion Survey
New Build Quality Assurance
Professional snagging inspection for newly built properties. Creates a finishing checklist to ensure your new home meets quality standards before completion.
Duration:
2-3 hours
Suitable for:
New builds, pre-completion properties
Key Features:
Level 1 Home Survey
Essential Property Assessment
Perfect for conventional properties and newer homes. Identifies risks, potential legal issues, and urgent defects.
Duration:
2-3 hours
Suitable for:
New builds, good condition properties
Key Features:
Level 2 Home Survey
Detailed Property Analysis
Most popular choice for conventional properties in reasonable condition. Includes extensive inspections and maintenance advice.
Duration:
3-4 hours
Suitable for:
Properties post-1930, reasonable condition
Key Features:
Level 3 Building Survey
Complete Structural Assessment
The most comprehensive survey for older, unusual, or run-down properties. Includes drone inspections and detailed analysis.
Duration:
4-6 hours
Suitable for:
Older properties, major renovations
Key Features:
Buy-to-Let Survey
Investment Property Protection
Specialized survey combining property condition with Health & Safety compliance for rental properties.
Duration:
3-5 hours
Suitable for:
Rental properties, landlords
Key Features:
Defects Survey
Expert Problem Diagnosis
Identify and resolve structural issues, damp, subsidence, and timber decay before they become costly problems.
Duration:
2-4 hours
Suitable for:
Properties with known issues
Key Features:
Frequently Asked Questions
Get expert advice from qualified RICS and RPSA surveyors. We've helped thousands of property buyers make informed decisions with comprehensive survey reports.
Survey Types & Selection
Level 1 surveys are ideal for newer, conventional properties in good condition. Level 2 (Homebuyer Survey) suits most typical homes built post-1930 in reasonable condition. Level 3 (Building Survey) is best for older, unusual, or run-down properties, or if you're planning major works. Our surveyors can advise which is most appropriate for your specific property.
A lender's valuation only confirms the property's worth for mortgage purposes - it won't identify defects or repair issues. Our independent surveys provide detailed condition reports, highlight urgent repairs, assess structural problems, and can save you thousands by identifying hidden defects before purchase.
Yes! Our Pre-completion Survey (snagging) is essential for new builds. We inspect fixtures, fittings, and services to create a comprehensive defects list before completion. This ensures builders fix all issues before you move in, and it's a requirement of the New Homes Quality Code.
Process & Costs
Most surveys take 2-4 hours depending on property size and type. We aim to provide your comprehensive report within 5 working days. Your surveyor will call you on inspection day to discuss key findings, and you'll have ongoing access for follow-up questions via email and phone.
Absolutely! Research shows that buyers who get surveys negotiate an average £2,000 reduction in asking price. Our detailed reports identify repair costs and structural issues, giving you strong evidence to renegotiate or budget for essential repairs after purchase.
Our reports use a clear traffic light system (1-2-3 rating) to highlight urgent issues. We provide repair advice, cost estimates where possible, and recommendations for specialist inspections. You can use this information to renegotiate, request repairs, or in serious cases, reconsider the purchase entirely.
Get Your Property Survey Quote
Contact our qualified RPSA surveyors for expert property surveys. We'll provide a detailed quote within 24 hours and deliver your comprehensive report within 5 working days.
