RICS Certified - Level 3 Survey

Building Survey For Properties in Jersey Channel Islands

The most comprehensive residential survey available under RICS standards. This survey is recommended for older, altered, extended, or high-value properties in Jersey where a detailed understanding of condition and construction is essential.

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RICS Regulated
Located in Jersey CI
Fast & Friendly Turnaround
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What You Need To Know About a Building Survey (Level 3)

For older, complex, or high-value properties, knowing a building is structurally sound — and understanding exactly what it will cost to maintain or repair — is essential before committing to a purchase.

A Level 3 Building Survey gives you the most detailed assessment available, going well beyond identifying defects to explain their cause, likely progression, and what remediation may involve.

Ideal for properties that are older, have been extended or significantly altered, are of non-standard construction, or are high in value.

Is This The Right Report For You?

This report is strongly recommended for properties that are older, have been extended or significantly altered, are of non-standard construction, or are high in value. It is also the right choice if you have specific concerns about the property's structure or condition that warrant a more thorough investigation.

How Long Does It Take?

Reports are typically issued within five working days of the inspection being carried out. Inspection time varies depending on the size and complexity of the property. Most Level 3 inspections take three to four hours on site.

What's Included With The Report

You receive a RICS Level 3 Building Survey written report, covering construction and materials, identified defects and their likely causes, and specific repair and maintenance recommendations. This gives you a complete picture of the property before purchase.

How Much It Costs

Fees on request, typically quoted within 24 hours of enquiry. Fee depends on property size and type.

What Our Building Survey (Level 3) Covers

A Level 3 Building Survey is the most comprehensive residential survey available under RICS standards.

It covers the same elements as a Condition Report (Level 1) and Homebuyer Report (Level 2), but our team goes considerably further as we inspect concealed areas where accessible, describing the likely construction and materials, and providing detailed guidance on identified defects including repair options and maintenance recommendations.

It is strongly recommended for older, altered, extended, or high-value properties in Jersey.

RICS Certified Inspection

During the inspection, a certified member of the H.C Surveying team carries out a comprehensive assessment of the property. This includes inspecting all accessible elements in detail, including concealed areas where safely accessible.

At the end of inspection you'll recieve a written RICS Level 3 Building Survey Report. The report describes the construction and materials used, identifies defects and their likely causes, and provides specific repair and maintenance recommendations to inform your purchase decision and future ownership.

Roof coverings and external condition

Detailed assessment of the roof structure, coverings, chimneys, parapets, gutters, and all external elements. Where defects are found, the report provides specific repair recommendations and notes on likely deterioration if left unaddressed.

External walls and structural movement

In-depth inspection of external walls, construction type, and any signs of movement or structural defect — with detailed notes on likely cause, severity, and recommended remediation or specialist investigation.

Windows and doors

Thorough assessment of all windows and doors including condition, construction, glazing, draught-proofing, and hardware — with specific repair or replacement recommendations where defects are identified.

Dampness and timber defects

Comprehensive assessment of the property for all forms of damp and timber defect, including concealed areas where accessible. The report identifies causes, affected areas, and sets out a recommended course of remedial action.

Insulation and ventilation

Detailed review of insulation provision and ventilation throughout the property, with specific recommendations on any improvements required to meet current standards or address moisture and energy performance concerns.

Visible structural concerns

Thorough structural assessment covering all accessible elements, with detailed analysis of any defects identified, their likely cause and progression, and clear recommendations for repair, monitoring, or specialist investigation.

External areas and outbuildings

Comprehensive inspection of all external features including hard landscaping, retaining structures, boundaries, and outbuildings — with condition notes, defect descriptions, and maintenance recommendations for each element.

How Our Homebuyer Report Works

01

Enquire

Get in touch with the property address, asking price, and any specific concerns. This helps us understand your requirements and respond with an accurate quote quickly.
02

Quote confirmed

We'll confirm your fee and agree a convenient inspection date. Most quotes are provided within 24 hours of enquiry.
03

Inspection carried out

Our team attends the property and carries out a comprehensive inspection of all accessible elements. This includes concealed areas where safely accessible. Most Level 3 inspections take three to four hours depending on the size and complexity of the property.
04

Report prepared

Your Building Survey report is written, quality checked, and formatted to the RICS Level 3 standard before being signed off for delivery.
05

Delivered to you

Your report is sent securely by email. Our team is available to talk through any findings, and follow up questions are always welcome.

Why Choose H.C Surveying?

Buying, managing, or investing in property can feel complex. At H.C Surveying, we give you clear, reliable advice so you can make confident decisions and avoid costly surprises.

Our building surveying services focus on what matters most to you. You get a clear understanding of a property’s condition and help protecting your investment. We provide straightforward insights, practical recommendations, and reports you can actually use.

As an independent, RICS-regulated practice, our advice is always unbiased and aligned with the highest professional standards. We combine technical expertise with a responsive, personal approach so you are supported at every stage without confusion or unnecessary jargon.

Based in Jersey, we bring strong local knowledge of property types, construction methods, and regulations across the Channel Islands and the UK. This helps you move forward with clarity and confidence.

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Harry Chinn

Founder & Director

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What Our Client's Are Saying

Harry played a key role in supporting a 250-property portfolio by providing insurance valuations for units across the UK.

He also delivered a student accommodation fit-out in Exeter working to tight timescales and budgets. He approached the work with professionalism, consistency, and a clear focus on delivery.

P

Private Client

In relation to student fit out

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Harry provided pre-tender exercises for repair and remedial works to City Hall, East London, where his structured approach and attention to detail ensured a well-prepared and efficient procurement process.

He also delivered full project management services for the demolition of the Rank Hovis Building, East London, effectively overseeing the works from inception to completion. His clear communication and commitment to quality played a key role in the successful delivery of the project.

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Public Sector

Greater London Authority

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via Google Reviews

Harry played a key role in supporting a 250-property portfolio by providing insurance valuations for units across the UK.

He also delivered a student accommodation fit-out in Exeter working to tight timescales and budgets. He approached the work with professionalism, consistency, and a clear focus on delivery.

J

John Smith

First-time buyer, St. Brelade

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via Google Reviews

I had a great experience with this business and Harry.

They were extremely quick to respond, and the whole process — from my initial enquiry to receiving the final report — was completed within a week. Really efficient and professional service. Highly recommended!

S

Stephanie O'Driscoll

Recent Client

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via Google Reviews

Cannot recommend Harry enough. He provided a competitive quote and arranged a thorough survey quickly. He is RICS accredited and the homebuyers report was very informative.

He offered help in interpreting the survey and even worked organising things over weekends. If you want a survey I wouldn't hesitate to use HC Surveying.

K

Katy

Homebuyer Report

Stone cottage with white windows, black door, and brick chimneys surrounded by dense green foliage.

via Google Reviews

Harry played a key role in supporting a 250-property portfolio by providing insurance valuations for units across the UK.

He also delivered a student accommodation fit-out in Exeter working to tight timescales and budgets. He approached the work with professionalism, consistency, and a clear focus on delivery.

J

John Smith

First-time buyer, St. Brelade

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via Google Reviews

We were in the process of purchasing our forever home and needed the peace of mind that the property had no hidden issues. We contacted Harry to arrange a survey and he was professional and friendly from the first phone call.

He gave us everything we needed to make an informed decision on what services we should hire him for, and delivered the report in the extremely quick timescale that was agreed up front. The report was to the standard that gave us a detailed idea of the condition of the property and advice on any areas that needed attention, in addition the fee agreed was as promised and great value. We would definitely be using Harry again for any future projects.

J

Jason Harries

Condition Report

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Harry supported us on dilapidations matters at lease end and helped us navigate the process effectively. His advice was clear and practical, and his input contributed to achieving reasonable settlements in both cases.

He was professional, easy to work with, and kept things moving at the right pace. We appreciated his balanced approach and would be happy to work with him again if similar matters arise.

P

Private Client

In relation to student fit out

Stone cottage with white windows, black door, and brick chimneys surrounded by dense green foliage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Based in Jersey Channel Islands, we provide trusted surveying services across the island and the UK mainland for select projects.
A mortgage valuation is carried out for the lender, not for you. It’s a basic check to confirm the property’s value and may not highlight defects. Our surveys gives you a more detailed understanding of the property’s condition and any risks.
Most inspections take a few hours, depending on the size and type of property. Your report is typically delivered within a few working days, giving you a clear summary of findings and any recommended next steps.
A Level 3 Building Survey goes considerably further than a Level 2 Homebuyer Report. As well as assessing defects and their likely cause, our team inspects concealed areas where safely accessible, describes the construction methods and materials used, and provides specific repair and maintenance recommendations for every defect identified. It is the most detailed residential survey available under RICS standards and is designed for properties where a thorough understanding of condition and construction is essential.
Yes — and for properties requiring a Level 3 survey, the findings often carry significant weight in price negotiations. A Building Survey frequently uncovers defects, structural issues, or repair requirements that weren't visible or disclosed before offer. Many buyers who we work with use the report to renegotiate the asking price, request remedial works prior to exchange, or factor future repair costs into their decision to proceed. We are happy to talk through the findings and help you understand which issues are most relevant to raise with the vendor.
Yes — and for traditional Jersey granite properties, a Level 3 Building Survey is strongly recommended. Older granite construction often involves materials and methods that require specialist knowledge to assess correctly, including lime mortar pointing, rubble-fill walls, and traditional roof structures. At H.C Surveying our team has direct experience surveying Jersey's local property stock and understands the specific defects and maintenance considerations associated with the island's older building types.
A Level 3 Building Survey provides detailed repair and maintenance recommendations for every defect identified, including guidance on urgency and the nature of works required. While the report does not typically include formal cost estimates, Our team can discuss the likely scale of any remedial work during the follow-up conversation after delivery. If a formal schedule of costs is needed, this can be arranged as a separate service.
Yes. HC Surveying is regulated by RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors). You can verify our registration directly at https://www.ricsfirms.com/office/262995/HC-Surveying-LTD
Yes, we cover all parishes across Jersey and can accommodate most timescales. Get in touch to confirm availability for your property.

Request a Quote

We’re here to help. Whether you’re looking for a building survey, a valuation, or simply some guidance. When getting in touch, please include property information such as agent/property listing, address, asking price. This helps us understand your requirements and respond more efficiently.

Get in touch today and we’ll be happy to discuss how we can assist.

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Other Surveys We Offer at H.C Surveying

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Condition Report (Level 1)

Our RICS Level 1 Condition Report is the most concise of the three RICS residential survey levels. It gives you a clear, straightforward picture of a property's general condition.

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Homebuyer Report (Level 2)

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Report inspects the same key elements of a property as a Level 1 survey, but goes significantly further with urgency of any repair assessment.