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RICS Building Surveys
RICS Level 3

RICS Building Surveys can save you money.

If you are buying a property, knowing the property’s faults and understanding the cost of repairs allows you to budget and negotiate on the purchase price of the property.

What is a building survey?

Also known as a ‘Level 3’ or ‘ Full Structural’ survey, an RICS Full Building Survey is the most detailed type of survey. In short, it is the gold standard.

Industry guidelines recommend this type of survey if your property is large, old, has some disrepair or has unusual features. Guidelines also recommend Full Building Surveys if you plan to do any significant renovations or extensions.

At Allcott Associates, we think that RICS level 3 surveys are the best option for getting a complete understanding of what you are buying, whatever the property age or type.

Full building surveys provide thorough, bespoke guidance on build type, condition, structural integrity and maintenance issues. Our RICS building surveyors provide a comprehensive inspection of the property. Wherever possible, the building surveyor will look over the entire property, including the attic, cellar, under loose carpets and behind furniture. Everything that can be looked at, will be looked at.

You will receive a very detailed report with advice on visible faults and potential hidden defects. The report will also tell you the types and costs of repairs that are needed and what property maintenance measures will be required. In addition, it provides guidance on environmental hazards and highlights issues that your legal advisor should look into. The information will be in-depth and tailored to the property type and your needs.

Looking for Commercial Services? 

Visit our sister company, Allcott Commercial.

Allcott Associates RICS Full Building Surveys

Our team includes both RICS Chartered Surveyors and Structural Engineers, so we can go beyond simply describing the property condition. Whether you are a first time buyer, or already on the property ladder, we are confident that you will find our survey reports comprehensive and detailed, with technical and structural findings described in a straightforward format. Unlike other firms, we won’t refer you to a third party for structural investigations.

Survey photo of chimney and roof
Thorough inspection of property condition and structure
cracking in a wall
In-depth advice on repairs, costs and maintenance
Example Building Survey Report PDF for a Modern Property
Industry-leading detailed reports
structural inspection
Tailored inspections based on your needs
Our survey locations cover England
Local RICS building surveyors, supported by our nationwide team
Phone support
One-to-one advice from your surveyor on any queries

What does a full building survey include?

Inspection

– Thorough inspection of all accessible parts of the property and its outbuildings.
– Assessment of all major and minor faults found within the property and the implications of these faults.
– Examination of the potential for hidden defects.
– Assessment of timbers for rot and active woodworm infestation.
– Comment on the condition of the heating, electric, gas/oil and water system
– Investigation into the condition of damp proofing, insulation, and drainage (providing access to the drains is available).

 

Testing

– Testing for dampness of the walls.

Advice

– Estimated maintenance and repair costs and information on what will happen if repairs and maintenance are not carried out.
– Technical information about how the property was built, and all materials which were used in the process.
– Tailored advice on how the build type affects the structural integrity and maintenance of the property.
– Information on environmental hazards and considerations for your legal advisor.
– Proposals for any further special inspections and subsequent work which may need to be done on the property, due to findings during the survey.

 

Valuation

– Reinstatement costs and market valuation upon request.

Professional Surveyors, Quality Service | RICS Certified Surveyors

All of our Chartered Building Surveyors are members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS); this ensures our survey reports are comprehensive. Our team also includes Chartered Structural Engineers, which eliminates the need to refer to an external Structural Engineer for further investigation at a further cost, unless in the unlikely event that opening up of areas is required. Unlike other firms, we are completely independent and our reports are accepted by all financial institutions and insurance companies.

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