Home Buyer Reports
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
The most detailed property inspection for older, altered or complex homes across Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire & Essex
A RICS Level 3 Building Survey (formerly a full structural survey) provides the highest level of inspection and reporting. It is the best choice for older properties, larger homes, properties in poor condition, or buildings that have been heavily extended or altered.
At Sage Chartered Surveyors, our Level 3 surveys give buyers deep insight into a property’s construction, defects, repair priorities and long-term maintenance needs — helping you make a confident, informed purchase.
Home Buyer Reports
What Is a RICS Level 3 Building Survey?
A Level 3 survey is the most comprehensive survey offered by RICS.
It involves a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas, providing:
- A thorough assessment of the building’s structure and fabric
- Detailed explanations of defects and their causes
- Guidance on urgent repairs and risks
- Estimated repair timelines and potential future maintenance
- Advice on potential consequences of not addressing issues
- Moisture readings, roof void inspections, external fabric analysis
- Commentary on non-standard or complex construction elements
This survey does not include a valuation by default, but one can be added if required.
When Should You Choose a Level 3 Survey?
A Level 3 Building Survey is recommended when the property is:
- Built before 1900
- Of unusual or non-standard construction
- Listed or located in conservation areas
- Heavily extended or altered
- In visibly poor condition
- Large, rural or complex in layout
- A higher-risk purchase where hidden defects may be expensive
Ideal for:
- Period homes
- Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian properties
- Rural cottages, farmhouses and barn conversions
- Older terraces, semis and detached houses
- Properties with suspected damp, movement, roof issues, or structural concerns
If you’re unsure which survey to choose, we’ll give honest advice based on the property type and your concerns.
Click below for an official description of a RICS Level 3 Building Survey and sample reports:
You can find additional examples in our full library: here
What’s Included in a Level 3 Building Survey?
- Full external inspectionRoofs, chimneys, walls, brickwork, render, drainage, structural elements
- Internal inspectionFloors, ceilings, loft void, sub-floor where accessible, staircases, internal walls
- Damp, timber & fabric assessmentMoisture meter readings, timber condition, visible fungal or insect activity
- Roof structure examinationCondition of rafters, insulation, ventilation, coverings and potential defects
- Services overview (non-invasive)Electricity, gas/oil, water, heating systems
- Detailed defect explanationsCauses, implications and severity
- Repair and maintenance guidancePriorities, recommended timelines and future risks
- Movement, subsidence, roof spread, damp penetration, leaks, decay
Why Choose Sage Chartered Surveyors for a Level 3 Survey?
- Highly detailed, RICS-compliant reporting
- Local understanding of East Anglia’s historic and rural properties
- Clear explanations — no jargon
- Fast turnaround times
- Post-survey phone support
- Optional valuation available
- Independent advice with your best interests first
We aim to make complex property issues easy to understand so you can make confident decisions.
Local Level 3 Surveyors Across East Anglia
Sage Surveyors provide Level 3 Building Surveys throughout:
- SuffolkIpswich, Bury St Edmunds, Lowestoft, Sudbury and nearby areas
- NorfolkNorwich, King’s Lynn, Great Yarmouth, Downham Market and coastal regions
- CambridgeshireCambridge, Peterborough, Ely, Huntingdon and surrounding villages
- EssexColchester, Chelmsford, Saffron Walden, Southend and North Essex towns
Older homes in East Anglia often present unique issues such as clay-soil movement, coastal moisture penetration, historic timber decay and ageing roofing — our surveyors specialise in identifying these region-specific defects.
Level 2 vs Level 3 – Which Is Right for You?
| Property Type | Recommended Survey |
|---|---|
| Modern properties in fair condition | Level 2 |
| Older homes (pre-1900) | Level 3 |
| Homes in poor condition | Level 3 |
| Properties with extensions/alterations | Level 3 |
| Flats & standard houses | Level 2 |
| Large/rural/complex buildings | Level 3 |
If you’re unsure, we’ll review the listing or agent details to guide you towards the right survey, contact us here
Book a Level 3 Building Survey
Get a fast, accurate quote for your Level 2 survey.
FAQ: RICS Level 3 Survey FAQs
Yes. Level 3 surveys are the best choice for older or complex properties where defects may be hidden or expensive to repair.
A valuation can be added if required. See the sample report above.
Typically 3–6 hours depending on property size and complexity.
Most reports are completed within 3–7 working days.
Yes — where safe and accessible, the roof void is inspected in detail.
No. As per RICS guidance, inspections are visual and non-invasive, but we will note concerns requiring specialist investigation.
Neither is “better” — they serve different purposes.
Level 3 is appropriate for older, altered or complex properties; Level 2 suits modern homes.
HomeBuyer Reports
RICS Surveys Traffic Light System
All RICS surveys are conducted in a traffic light system which is made to ensure that survey reports could be easily read by both legal advisers and homebuyers.
Condition Rating 3 (Red)
These elements have defects that are serious and/or need to be replaced or investigated urgently. Failure to do so could risk serious safety issues or severe longterm damage to your property
Condition Rating 2 (Amber)
Defects that need repairing or replacing but are not considered to be either serious or urgent. The property must be maintained in the normal way.
Condition Rating 1 (Green)
No repair is currently needed. The elements listed here must be maintained in the normal way.
Our Services
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We specialise in providing comprehensive assessments tailored to your property needs. Our experienced team employs cutting-edge technology and industry expertise to deliver accurate and timely reports, ensuring you make informed decisions about your home. Trust us for reliable and insightful evaluations.
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