RICS Level 3 Building Survey in Comberbach

Our inspectors examine every major element of the property during the survey. This includes the roof structure and covering, chimneys, parapet walls, gutters and drainage, external walls, doors and windows, internal floors and ceilings, walls and partitions, and the condition of any conservatory or attached structures. We also assess the condition of built-in kitchens, bathrooms, and other fixtures.

The survey covers the mechanical and electrical systems visible during our inspection. We note the condition of the consumer unit, wiring, plumbing pipework, water pressure, and heating system. While we don't test every switch or socket, we identify visible deficiencies, outdated installations, and potential safety concerns that warrant further investigation by qualified tradespeople.

Our Level 3 report includes a thorough assessment of the property's overall condition, categorising issues by their severity. Each defect receives a clear explanation of what it is, why it has occurred, and what it might cost to put right. We use a simple traffic-light system so you can immediately see which issues demand urgent attention and which can be scheduled for future maintenance.

For properties in Comberbach, our surveyors pay particular attention to issues commonly found in early-century construction. This includes checking the condition of original timber windows, assessing any signs of movement in load-bearing walls, and evaluating the state of older roof structures. We also examine the foundations and surrounding ground, looking for evidence of subsidence or drainage issues that can affect properties in this region.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, chimneys and parapets
• Floors, ceilings and stairs
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and drainage
• Electrical systems
• Heating and insulation
• Damp and timber decay

Your RICS Level 3 report is designed to be clear and actionable, regardless of your prior experience with property surveys. The report begins with an executive summary that highlights the most important findings, followed by detailed sections covering each area of the property. We use plain English throughout, avoiding technical jargon wherever possible.

Each defect entry includes a clear description, our assessment of its cause, and our recommendation for action. Issues are categorised as urgent (requiring immediate attention), important (needing repair within the next 12 months), or cosmetic (for future maintenance). We also provide cost estimates where possible, helping you plan your budget for any works that may be required.

The report includes photographs of key defects, making it easy to understand exactly what we're referring to. If our surveyor identifies something that requires specialist investigation, such as potential subsidence or significant structural movement, we'll recommend appropriate next steps and any further surveys you might need. We can also advise on which qualified tradespeople you should consult for specific repairs.

For Comberbach properties particularly, we include specific guidance on maintenance issues relevant to older homes in this area. This might include recommendations for preserving original features, advice on damp management in traditional construction, or guidance on updating older electrical and plumbing systems to meet current standards while maintaining the character of the property.

Before our surveyor arrives, there's a few things you can do to help the inspection run smoothly. Ensure our inspector has clear access to all areas of the property, including the loft space, any outbuildings, and areas that might be locked or obstructed. If you're not the current owner, ask them to arrange for utilities to be on so we can test basic functions.

It's helpful to provide any previous survey reports, planning permissions, or building regulation certificates if you have them. This historical information gives our surveyor context about work that has been carried out on the property previously. If the current owner has any records of recent repairs or maintenance, these can be valuable too.

On the day of the survey, our inspector will want to move around freely to examine all accessible areas. We recommend that someone who knows the property is available to point out any areas of concern and to provide access to locked rooms or the loft space. Our surveyor will discuss initial findings with you at the end of the inspection where possible.

If you're attending the survey, wear suitable clothing and footwear as we'll need to access the loft space, exterior areas, and potentially outbuildings. We'll also be checking behind furniture and moving small items to inspect walls and floors. Let our surveyor know about any areas of particular concern you've noticed during viewings so we can pay extra attention to those areas.