RICS Level 3 Building Survey in March

A RICS Level 3 survey provides the most comprehensive assessment of a property's condition available under the RICS framework. Unlike a Level 2 survey, which focuses on visible issues and mortgage valuation requirements, the Level 3 inspection delves deeply into the fabric of the building. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas, including roofs, walls, floors, ceilings, foundations, and damp courses. They assess the property's overall structural integrity and provide detailed recommendations for any repairs or further investigations that may be required. This thorough approach means we can identify defects that might be hidden from a casual viewing, giving you a complete picture of the property's condition.

The survey report includes a thorough analysis of all major defects found during the inspection, explaining their cause, extent, and potential implications. Each defect is categorised by severity, from urgent issues requiring immediate attention to matters that may warrant future monitoring. The report also includes advice on remedial works and estimated costs, helping you plan for any necessary expenditure after purchase. This level of detail is particularly valuable for older properties in March, where hidden defects can be costly to address. For instance, we frequently find issues with original timber frames in period properties or signs of movement related to the clay soils that are prevalent in the Fens.

For properties in March, our inspectors pay particular attention to issues relevant to the local area. The town's position in the Fens means we carefully assess drainage, damp penetration, and any signs of movement that may relate to the underlying clay geology. We also examine properties for signs of past flood damage, given the low-lying nature of the area and the proximity to the Old River Nene. The Georgian and Victorian properties in the town centre require specialist assessment of their traditional construction methods, including solid walls, lime mortar, and timber frames that behave differently to modern cavity-wall construction.

• Complete structural assessment
• Detailed defect analysis
• Cost estimates for repairs
• Advice on urgent repairs
• Assessment of drainage and damp
• Flood risk evaluation

March sits in the heart of the Fenland, a unique geographical area characterised by low-lying, reclaimed land and distinctive geology. The alluvial deposits, silts, clays, and peats that underlie the town create specific challenges for property owners. Clay soils are particularly prone to shrink-swell behaviour, expanding when wet and contracting during dry periods. This movement can affect foundations and cause structural stress, especially in older properties that were not designed with these ground conditions in mind. Our inspectors are trained to identify the signs of this type of movement, including cracking patterns, door and window alignment issues, and signs of past remedial works. Properties with mature trees nearby are particularly vulnerable, as the trees draw moisture from the soil, causing it to contract.

Flood risk is another significant consideration for properties in March. The town lies on the flood plain of the River Nene, and its low-lying position means surface water flooding can occur during periods of heavy rainfall. Properties in areas close to the river or in lower-lying parts of the town may have experienced flooding in the past. Our surveyors carefully assess properties for signs of previous flood damage, including water marks on walls, damaged plasterwork at lower levels, and evidence of damp that may indicate ongoing moisture issues. We provide specific advice on flood risk and recommend appropriate investigations where necessary. Given the topography of the Fens, this assessment is particularly crucial for properties in the eastern parts of March near the river.

The Georgian aesthetic mentioned in descriptions of March indicates a significant number of period properties in the town, particularly in the centre and around St Wendreda's Church. These older properties, while often attractive and full of character, can present specific challenges. Traditional construction methods such as solid walls, lime mortar, and timber frames require different assessment criteria to modern cavity-wall construction. Our inspectors understand these traditional building methods and can identify defects that might be missed by less experienced surveyors. Properties of this age may also contain hidden defects such as rot in structural timber, failing damp proof courses, or outdated electrical and plumbing systems. Many Georgian properties in March will have been constructed with shallow foundations that may be affected by ground movement, making our detailed structural assessment particularly valuable.

Drainage is a key concern in the Fenland, where the water table is naturally high and the land has been reclaimed from marsh. Properties in March often have complex drainage systems, and our inspectors pay close attention to the condition of drains, gutters, and soakaways. Poor drainage can lead to damp problems, foundation issues, and in severe cases, flooding. We assess the slope of the land around properties and the effectiveness of surface water drainage, providing advice on any improvements that may be needed. This is especially important for newer developments where the ground may not have fully settled.

• Clay shrink-swell movement
• Flood risk from River Nene
• Traditional construction assessment
• Period property defects
• Drainage and damp issues
• Foundation movement

If you are considering purchasing a property in March, the RICS Level 3 survey is particularly recommended for several reasons. First, the age of the housing stock in the town means many properties will have some age-related issues that require detailed assessment. The Georgian and Victorian properties in the town centre, while full of character, may have hidden defects that only a thorough structural survey would reveal. Second, the unique geology of the Fens means that properties can be affected by ground conditions that are not common in other areas, and our inspectors know exactly what to look for.

New build properties in March, such as those in the Brewin Oaks development, also benefit from a Level 3 survey. While newer properties may be in better condition, a detailed survey can identify any construction defects, issues with building materials, or problems with the workmanship that may not be visible during a viewing. For properties still under construction, we can also offer snagging surveys to identify any issues before completion. Even with newer properties, having a professional assessment provides and protects your investment.

For buyers using the Help to Buy scheme or purchasing with a mortgage, a RICS survey provides the detailed information you need. Lenders require a valuation survey, but this is not the same as a structural survey and will not identify defects or provide advice on repairs. By commissioning a Level 3 survey, you get the full picture of the property's condition, enabling you to make an informed decision and negotiate with confidence if issues are found.