RICS Level 3 Building Survey in EH17 Edinburgh

The RICS Level 3 Building Survey represents the gold standard in property inspections and is particularly valuable in the EH17 area where housing stock ranges from traditional sandstone tenements to modern new-build developments. Our inspectors conduct a thorough visual examination of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space, sub-floor areas, outbuildings, and the surrounding grounds. The resulting report provides you with a clear assessment of the property's overall condition, highlighting areas requiring immediate attention as well as those that may need future maintenance.

In Edinburgh, where sandstone construction dominates the older housing stock, our surveyors are trained to identify specific issues common to the region. This includes identifying signs of spalling where stone faces flake away due to weather exposure, detecting penetrating damp that often affects solid wall construction, and spotting hidden timber defects such as wet rot or dry rot in lintels and joist ends. Properties in Gilmerton, which falls within a designated Conservation Area, require particular attention to ensure any future works comply with planning constraints.

The Level 3 survey is strongly recommended for properties over 70 years old, those showing visible signs of damage or deterioration, properties that have undergone significant extensions or renovations, and any listed building. Given that EH17 encompasses areas with historical mining heritage around Gilmerton, and contains properties ranging from traditional sandstone builds to contemporary Barratt and Miller Homes developments, a comprehensive survey provides the you need when making what is likely the largest financial decision of your life.

Our team has extensive experience surveying properties throughout the EH17 postcode, from Victorian terraces on Gilmerton Road to modern semi-detached homes in Greenpark. We understand that each property type brings its own set of potential issues, and our detailed reports reflect this local knowledge.

• Properties over 70 years old
• Listed buildings in conservation areas
• Properties with visible structural concerns
• New build homes with snagging needs
• Extended or renovated properties
• Unusual or non-standard construction

Edinburgh's architectural heritage is characterised by traditional sandstone construction, particularly the distinctive Craigleith, Hailes, and Binny stone used in thousands of properties across the city including the EH17 area. While this robust material has stood the test of time, it requires ongoing maintenance and specific knowledge to assess properly. Our inspectors understand how sandstone weathers differently from brick and can identify early signs of deterioration before they become major structural concerns.

One of the most common issues affecting traditional Edinburgh properties is water penetration. The freeze-thaw cycles experienced in Scottish winters can cause sandstone to delaminate, where layers separate from the main body of the stone. This process, known as spalling, can weaken structural elements and lead to costly repairs if not identified early. Our Level 3 survey includes a thorough assessment of all external wall surfaces, pointing condition, and any signs of water damage or biological growth.

Hidden timber defects represent another significant concern in Edinburgh's older properties. Traditional solid wall construction often incorporates timber lintels over windows and doors, with joist ends embedded directly into the masonry. Over time, these hidden timber elements can be affected by wet rot or dry rot, compromising structural integrity without visible external signs. Our surveyors use their expertise and visual assessment skills to identify tell-tale signs of timber decay that might be missed by less experienced inspectors.

Gilmerton's historical mining heritage adds another layer of consideration for property buyers in the area. While not all properties will be affected, some areas may have been subject to past mining activity that could influence ground stability. Our surveyors are aware of these local factors and will pay particular attention to any signs of ground movement or subsidence that might relate to historical mining activity in the area.

• Sandstone spalling and delamination
• Penetrating damp in solid walls
• Timber rot in lintels and joists
• Condensation in converted flats
• Roof covering deterioration
• Chimney stack condition