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RICS property surveys north west

RICS Homebuyer Level 3 Survey

The most comprehensive RICS pre-purchase survey for older, larger, altered, or complex properties.

Utrecht

1

Inspection

A RICS Level 3 Home Survey (formerly known as a Building Survey) is the most comprehensive residential inspection available and provides a detailed analysis of a property's construction.

2

Indentification

The survey identifies significant issues, probable causes, repair options, and maintenance priorities, covering external, internal areas along with outbuildings and site features.

3

Informed Decision

Our thorough assessment of the property recommendations will enable purchasers to make fully informed decisions before committing to a property purchase.

External Inspection

Red Square will undertake an assessment of, but not limited to:

  • Roof coverings

  • Chimney stacks

  • External walls

  • Windows & doors

  • Rainwater goods

  • Drainage systems etc.

Inspections are undertaken to asses for signs of deterioration, structural movement, defects, maintenance requirements, and areas of non-compliance.

The report will provide a detailed commentary on observed defects, likely causes, and practical recommendations for repair and future maintenance.

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Internal Inspection

Red Square will report on the condition of, but not limited to:​

  • Internal walls

  • Ceilings

  • Floors

  • Internal roof spaces & roof structure (where accessible)

  • Internal woodwork

  • Sanitary appliances 

  • Visible fixtures and fittings etc.

 

​​Red Square will identify issues such as:

  • Cracking

  • Dampness

  • Timber decay

  • Condensation

  • Structural movement

and other defects that may require repair or further investigation.​ Where appropriate, the survey will include detailed advice on remedial options and anticipated maintenance priorities.

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Site Conditions

Red Square will undertake an inspection of, but not limited to:

​​

  • Surrounding boundaries,

  • Garages

  • Permanent outbuildings

  • Driveways

  • Paths

  • Retaining walls

  • Drain covers

  • Landscaping features etc.

  • Red Square will identify defects or issues that may affect the property's overall condition or future liabilities.

Services Overview

A visual inspection of the accessible parts of building services, including:

  • Heating

  • Plumbing

  • Electrical installations

  • Drainage facilities

The survey does not include testing of services, but any apparent defects, safety concerns, or recommendations for specialist inspection will be clearly reported.

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Traffic Light Condition Ratings

The report uses the standard RICS condition rating system to help clients quickly understand the significance of any issues identified:

  • Condition Rating 1 (Green) : No repair is currently needed.

  • Condition Rating 2 (Amber) : Defects requiring repair or replacement, but not considered urgent or serious.

  • Condition Rating 3 (Red) : Urgent defects that are serious and/or need immediate attention.

 
 
Detailed Technical Analysis

Unlike the RICS Level 2 Home Survey, the Level 3 Survey provides a more extensive technical assessment of the property's construction and condition. This includes:

  • Diagnosis of complex defects and likely causes

  • Discussion of repair options and maintenance strategies

  • Advice on future works and associated priorities

  • Consideration of alterations, extensions, and non-traditional construction

  • Guidance on likely consequences if defects are left untreated

The Value of a Professional Property Condition Survey

A RICS Level 3 Survey is the most detailed and informative residential survey available. It is particularly beneficial for properties where defects, age, alterations, or construction methods warrant a more thorough investigation.

A professional building survey can:

  • Identify significant and complex defects

  • Explain the likely causes of problems

  • Outline repair options and maintenance priorities

  • Assist in purchase negotiations

  • Support budgeting for major works

  • Highlight risks associated with older or altered buildings

  • Reduce the likelihood of unexpected expenditure after purchase

Timely diagnosis almost always results in lower long-term repair costs.

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Our Approach

As independent Chartered Building Surveyors, our focus is on diagnosis — not the sale of remedial works.

We provide:

  • Clear, structured written reports

  • High-resolution annotated imagery

  • Practical, proportionate recommendations

  • Transparent advice tailored to the building type and age

Where drone inspection is appropriate, it is used as a safe and efficient investigative tool. Where closer inspection is required, traditional methods are employed. In many cases, a combination of both approaches delivers the most comprehensive assessment.

Areas Covered

Based in Liverpool, we undertake instructions across:

  • Merseyside

  • Greater Manchester

  • Cheshire

  • Lancashire

  • North Wales

  • Wider North of England​

Arrange a Level 3 Homebuyers Survey

If you require a professional RICS Level 3 Homebuyers Survey, pre-purchase inspection, or specialist advice, please contact our office to discuss your requirements.

We will advise on the most appropriate method of inspection and arrange a convenient appointment with a Chartered Building Surveyor.

 

Inspections are visual and non-invasive unless otherwise agreed. Reports provide an independent professional opinion based on evidence available at the time of inspection and are subject to our Terms of Engagement.

Let's discuss your needs further...

Get in touch so we can start working together.

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