A brick house with a steep roof, chimney, and a small garden in front, surrounded by greenery and flowering plants under a cloudy sky.

A closer look at an older, altered or more complex home.

If the property you’re buying has been extended, needs significant work or is less straightforward in its construction, you may need a more detailed assessment before deciding how to proceed.

A Millfield Level 3 Building Survey considers the building’s construction and accessible condition, with clear advice about significant defects, repair priorities and further investigation. I carry out the inspection personally and can discuss the findings with you after the report.

A brick house with a thatched roof covered in moss, surrounded by a lush green garden with trees and bushes.

Is Level 3 appropriate for your property?

This service is particularly suited to older properties, listed buildings, extensively altered homes, non-standard construction and properties that appear to need significant maintenance or repair. Tell me about the building and any plans you have for it so we can discuss the appropriate scope.

A brick house with white-framed windows and a red-tiled roof, surrounded by lush green trees and a well-maintained garden with flowering plants and a lawn, under a clear blue sky.

Understand what the findings mean.

Your report is written for the property inspected. Where defects are identified, it explains their nature and extent, probable cause and the consequences of leaving them unresolved. It sets out recommended investigation or repairs, the appropriate contractor or specialist and the relative priority of the work.

Practical timescales help you distinguish urgent matters from planned maintenance. Where appropriate, indicative repair-cost guidance can help you consider the financial implications.

Close-up of a brick chimney on a roof with slate shingles, a vent, and a dark metal pipe against a cloudy sky.

What is inspected?

The inspection covers accessible internal and external elements within the agreed scope, including:

  • Roof coverings, chimneys and rainwater goods.

  • External walls, render, pointing, windows and external doors.

  • Roof spaces and visible structural timbers.

  • Internal walls, ceilings and floors.

  • Cellars, basements and subfloor areas where accessible.

  • Visible drainage installations and accessible parts of the services.

  • Garages, permanent outbuildings and external areas.

The report explains relevant inspection limitations and where further investigation is recommended. The inspection does not open up hidden areas and cannot identify every concealed defect.

Close-up of a brick chimney with a chimney cap, with a cloudy sky and trees in the background.

High-level inspection

Camera-pole equipment may be used where appropriate. Drone imagery may also be used where appropriate and where conditions and restrictions permit. This can improve the view of roofs, chimneys and areas that are difficult to assess from ground level.

Support beyond the report

Finding a problem does not automatically mean you should walk away. What matters is understanding its significance and the next steps to consider. Once you have read your report, you can speak to me about the findings, priorities and recommendations.

Unsure whether Level 3 is right? Send me the property details.