A Level 3 Home Survey, previously known as a Building Survey, is a thorough examination of a property and its overall condition. A Structural Survey is a specialist survey that examines the structural integrity of a property.
Here are the main differences between a Building Survey and a Structural Survey:
| Building Survey | Structural Survey | |
|---|---|---|
Carried out by | RICS property surveyor | Structural engineer |
When do you need one | When buying a property | When recommended by the property surveyor or planning extension |
What it looks at | All accessible areas, detailing any defects or maintenance issues | Designed to look at the structural integrity of a property |
| What the cost is | £629 per survey | £1,000* per survey |
The Level 3 Home Survey is carried out by a property surveyor. On the other hand, a structural engineer will carry out a Structural Survey. In this guide, we’ll take you through what you can expect from a Building Survey and Structural Survey.
*Data taken from Checkatrade
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What Is a Building Survey?
A Building Survey is now known as a Level 3 Home Survey and is the most comprehensive survey available. It was also previously known as a Full Structural Survey, but it is not the same as a Structural Survey.
This survey is suitable for all property types but is highly recommended for older properties such as listed buildings. It is also suggested for deteriorated buildings and those with non-standard construction.
It highlights any defects found in the property and includes reparation advice. The survey aims to give the buyer as much information as possible so they can make an informed decision moving forward.
What is Included in a Level 3 Home Survey?
Your surveyor will thoroughly inspect the interior and exterior of the property. This includes areas that may be difficult to access such as the attic. The inspection takes between 4 to 8 hours to complete on average.
They will then publish their findings in a detailed report. This report includes:
- Signs of structural defects that could be serious
- Hazardous materials (e.g. asbestos)
- Signs of damp
- Structural work done without permission
- Building materials used during construction
- Damage to the roof or timbers
- Assess any trees near the property
- Reparation recommendations for any urgent defects
Your surveyor may recommend a specialist survey to be carried out such as a Damp Survey. You can also request a valuation for an additional charge.
How Much Does a Level 3 Home Survey Cost?
The Level 3 Survey costs £629 on average. This is based on the UK average property price of £292,000. The cost of your survey is dependent on the property price and location.
What is a Structural Survey?
A Structural Survey is a specialist survey that assesses a property’s structure. The detailed analysis will include information on the property’s condition, structural damage, and the necessary repairs.
This survey is conducted by a structural engineer who will determine whether the property is safe to live in. They are typically regulated by the Institute of Civil Engineers (ICE).
Your surveyor may recommend a Structural Survey if the property has had work done to it or you are planning an extension.
What is Included in a Structural Survey?
Your structural engineer will read through your initial property survey. This gives them a general idea of the areas that need a closer inspection, although they will examine the entire property.
- Some aspects they look at include:
- Cracks in the walls, floors, ceiling, and roof
- The foundation of the property
- Signs of water damage
- Assessment of the electric and plumbing systems
If you are planning to convert your property, your structural engineer will take measurements. They can also produce accurate drawings that can be passed on to your building contractor.
How Much Does a Structural Survey Cost?
Structural surveys cost an average of £1,000*. This is dependent on the property's location and the renovation project’s complexity. You may have to pay more if you need planning permission or dealing with a larger property.
**Data taken from Checkatrade
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Why Do People Get Confused Between Building Survey and Structural Survey?
One of the main reasons for the confusion lies with the name of the surveys, as until 2021 the Level 3 Building Survey was referred to as Full Structural Survey. The name change was done to avoid confusion between the two surveys as they look at different aspects of the property.
A Level 3 Survey, is an inspection of a property that is carried out during the buying process. It is carried out by a RICS property surveyor, who will identify any defects and maintenance issues.
Structural Surveys are specialist surveys carried out by structural engineers. They are carried out for those planning conversions or at the property surveyor’s recommendation. This survey examines the structural integrity of a property.
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