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Building Survey
Our most detailed survey, designed for properties that need a closer look.
A Building Survey provides an in-depth assessment of a property's construction and condition. It's particularly suited to older, larger, altered, unusual or visibly run-down homes, giving you detailed information about defects, repair considerations and areas that may require further investigation.
What is a Level 3 - Building Survey?
A comprehensive inspection that helps you understand the property's condition before you commit to buying.
A Building Survey examines the visible and accessible parts of a property in detail, highlighting significant defects, risks and maintenance concerns. The report provides detailed commentary on the property's construction, condition and repair needs, helping you make a more informed purchase decision.
When should I choose this survey?
A Building Survey is typically recommended for properties that need a more detailed assessment than a Home Survey Level 2. It is particularly useful where the property's age, construction or condition may present additional risks. The additional detail can help you understand the property's condition, plan for future repairs and make more informed decisions before you buy.
- Built before 1880
- Larger than average
- Extended or significantly altered
- Unusual or non-standard construction
- Visible signs of poor condition
- Planning major renovation works
What you’ll learn from your Level 3 Survey
Your report provides detailed information about the property's condition, helping you understand any significant issues and the implications of moving forward with the purchase.
- Construction methods and overall property condition
- Significant defects, risks and areas of concern requiring attention
- Repair priorities and maintenance considerations
- Recommendations for further investigation and advice
Why do I need a survey?
A mortgage valuation is designed for your lender, not for you. It won't provide the detailed insight needed to understand a property's condition, potential defects or future maintenance requirements.
A home survey gives you an independent assessment of the property, helping you uncover issues before they become your responsibility and giving you greater confidence in your purchase.
You're in safe hands
Buying a property can feel like a leap into the unknown. That's why we work with experienced surveyors who provide clear, independent advice on a property's condition, helping you understand what you're buying before you commit.
Choosing Westmarq means you can be confident that:
- You'll receive a survey tailored to the property you're buying
- Your report will highlight issues that may need repair, replacement or further investigation
- You'll have the information you need to make a more informed decision
- Our team will support you throughout the survey process
Frequently asked questions
A Building Survey provides a more detailed assessment of the property's construction and condition. It is typically recommended for older, larger, altered, unusual or visibly run-down properties, while a Home Survey Level 2 is suitable for most conventional homes in reasonable condition.
A Building Survey is often what people mean when they refer to a "structural survey". It provides a detailed inspection of the property's condition, highlighting defects, risks and repair considerations.
No. A Building Survey is normally a detailed visual inspection of accessible areas. Surveyors do not typically open up walls, lift fixed floor coverings or carry out destructive investigations.
Potentially. If the survey identifies significant defects or repair requirements, you may be able to use the findings when discussing the price with the seller.
Not seeing what you're looking for?
Get in touchOur survey process
Step 1 – Tell us about the property
Start by completing our short online questionnaire. We'll ask a few questions about the property you're buying so we can identify the most suitable survey option and next steps.
Step 2 – Your survey is arranged
Once you've chosen your survey, it will be arranged with an appropriately qualified surveyor. They'll inspect the visible and accessible parts of the property and assess its condition.
Step 3 – Receive your report
After the inspection, you'll receive a detailed report highlighting the property's condition, any significant defects, repair considerations and areas that may require further investigation.