RICS Home Survey - Level 3

RICS Home Survey - Level 3

The RICS Home Survey - Level 3 (previously known as the full structural survey or Building Survey) is the most thorough and comprehensive inspection and detailed report offered by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

It is normally carried out on large, older or run-down properties. Properties that have undergone conversion or significant alteration where more specialist and tailored advice is required. It can however be undertaken if a client so wishes, on any age, type or style of property.


With Lockwood Chartered Surveyors you can be sure you are in a trusted, experienced and professional pair of hands. Clients describe our Level 3 Reports as thorough, personalised, extensive in detail, tailored to our particular needs, invaluable, better than those 'off the peg offerings' and our after care service as being generous with time and polite. 


This survey provides an extensive, in-depth analysis of the property’s condition and includes advice on significant defects, readily apparent potential hazards, repair and maintenance options. It does this by using a ‘traffic light’ condition rating system.


Find out more about the RICS Home Survey - Level 3- Provided as either survey only, or a survey and valuation.

RICS Home Survey Level 3. Norwich, South Norfolk, Dereham, Lowestoft, Poringland

RICS Home Survey Level 3 Survey Features:


  •  Describes the construction and condition of the property on the date of inspection.


  • Aims to identify any problems that need urgent attention or are serious.


  •  Aims to tell about problems that may be dangerous.


  •  Aims to identify things that need to be investigated further to prevent serious damage.


  • Aims to show up potential issues and defects, before any transaction takes place.


  • Aims to help you decide whether you need extra advice before committing to a purchase.


  • Aims to enable you to budget for any repairs or restoration.


  •  Aims to advise you on the amount of ongoing maintenance required in the future.


  • Aims to establish how the property is built, what materials are used and how these will perform in the future.


  • Aims to describe physical defects, plus exposing potential problems posed by hidden defects.


  • Aims to outline the repair options and give you a repair timeline, whilst explaining the consequence of not acting.


  • Provides specific comments on energy efficiency.



RICS Home Survey Level 3 (survey and valuation) Features:

all of the above, as well as;


  • Providing you with a professional and independent opinion of market value.


  • Providing a reinstatement cost to help you avoid under or over-insurance.


Once you have received your RICS Level 3 Home Survey we will be at the end of the phone to answer any queries.

Do you want a more thorough inspection? Find out more about our Aerial Inspection Package.

What our clients are saying
Elliott Hunt

We recently used Lockwood Chartered Surveyors for a Level 3 Building Survey on a property we were looking to purchase, and we honestly couldn’t be happier with the service provided. From start to finish, it was a professional, thorough, and reassuring experience.

Andrew, delivered an incredibly detailed and comprehensive report that covered every aspect of the property — from structural integrity related to the potential roofing issue (mentioned below) to smaller maintenance issues we wouldn’t have known to look for. The report was well organised, clear, and easy to understand, even for those without a background in property or construction.

What really stood out, though, was Andrew’s availability after the survey. He took the time to speak with both me and my partner, patiently talking us through the report, answering our questions, and explaining which issues we might want to investigate further. That personal touch gave us so much confidence and clarity moving forward.

We also opted for the aerial package, which turned out to be a great decision. The drone footage uncovered a missing ridge tile on the roof — something that wasn’t visible during our viewing due to access. Without that insight, we could easily have missed a potentially costly issue.

I would absolutely recommend Lockwood Surveys to anyone needing a truly in-depth and expert Level 3 survey. The combination of technical knowledge, clear communication, and excellent customer service made what can often be a stressful process feel manageable and well-supported.

Many thanks again for all your help Andrew.
Elliott & Natasha

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16 days ago
Chris H

Andrew was great from start to finish of the process. He completed a level 3 survey for me at short notice which helped me beat the deadline for change in stamp duty. The level of detail the report went into was beyond my expectations and all queries I raised were answered swiftly. 10/10 service

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22 days ago
John Adamson

We were delighted with the service delivered. Clear communication from the outset and throughout the process. And a truly comprehensive, well-presented, easy-to-understand report with clear recommendations for actions should we proceed to purchase.

We would have no hesitation in recommending Lockwood Surveyors.

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1 month ago
Denise Ryan

I needed a level 3 RICS survey on a beautiful house I was very keen to purchase.
From first contact to production of the survey report, Andrew Lockwood provided a prompt and very professional service. I opted to have his additional aerial survey by drone, due to the age of the property and flat roof over a newer extension.
The survey report was thorough, with detailed explanations re identified defects and points to follow up on re cost and for my solicitor.
His survey was worth every penny, as it informed my decision not to proceed with the purchase despite loving the property, due to the costly repairs required and environmental concerns.
I definitely recommend Andrew Lockwood.

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1 month ago
Dominic Heafield

I had a great experience with Lockwood, Andrew was communicative, friendly, and I had no issues whatsoever with the service. I received a detailed report from the level 3 survey, letting me know the necessary details and giving advice on what to do now.

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2 months ago
Isabelle Ketteringham

10/10 service from Lockwood Surveyors. Andrew was great at communicating with us throughout. He provided a comprehensive survey which answered all of our questions. He sent us over the report in quick time with detailed sections on every aspect you could imagine. Smooth, no nonsense process. Couldn’t have asked for a simpler/easier experience - it has helped us greatly with buying our first home. Thank you!

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2 months ago