Surveying and Architectural services
RICS Level 3 Building Survey
A comprehensive inspection of the property’s condition, structure and components, written in plain English and explaining:
- what we saw
- what it means
- what may be required now or in the future
As part of our Level 3 service, we also take a broader view of the purchase decision. Where appropriate, we will contact the valuing estate agent prior to inspection to understand how the asking or agreed price has been justified, including the comparables relied upon.
Throughout the report, we provide indicative repair and replacement cost guidance for elements of the building fabric that are defective or approaching the end of their service life. This helps you understand whether the price being paid properly reflects the true condition of the property, rather than just its appearance.
Why it matters:
Level 3 surveys go beyond a basic overview. They are designed to support informed decision-making, including negotiation, budgeting, and long-term ownership planning. By linking condition, risk and cost, the report gives you clarity on whether allowances have realistically been made for necessary works.
Typical turnaround: 5 days
Why We Do Not Offer Level 2 Surveys
We have chosen not to offer Level 2 surveys because they are typically designed for same-day, checklist-based reporting, often completed on tablets with limited post-inspection analysis.
Our approach is different. We gather detailed site data, take and review photographs carefully, annotate images, and spend professional time analysing what we have seen. We then prepare a considered report that includes surveyor-led commentary and indicative cost guidance for elements of the building fabric in disrepair.
This process takes time and thought. By focusing exclusively on Level 3 surveys, we are able to provide the depth of inspection, analysis and explanation that many buyers expect — particularly where the condition of the property may have a material impact on price or future costs.
Party Wall Services
Marshall James Associates Ltd provides professional Party Wall services in accordance with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. We act as the Building Owner’s Surveyor or as the Agreed Surveyor, issuing Party Wall Notices, reviewing proposals, inspecting adjoining properties where required, and preparing and publishing Party Wall Awards.
Our role is to ensure the process is handled lawfully, impartially and proportionately, protecting the interests of all parties and helping works proceed with clarity and minimal dispute. Each appointment is managed carefully, with clear documentation and reasoned decisions rather than a formulaic or adversarial approach.
Fees for Party Wall Awards typically start from £1,000, depending on the nature and complexity of the works and the level of involvement required. Fees are confirmed in advance so that Building Owners understand the scope and cost before instructions are accepted.
Planning Applications & Home Extensions
Marshall James Associates Ltd provides a full planning application service for residential extensions and alterations. We carry out a measured survey of the existing property and prepare accurate 2D existing and proposed planning drawings, including the required Ordnance Survey location and block plans.
As part of the service, we prepare the necessary Design and Access Statement (where required) and manage the submission of the complete planning application via our Planning Portal account, ensuring documentation is clear, coordinated and compliant with local authority requirements.
This service is intended to give homeowners a clear, structured route through the planning process, reducing the risk of delays caused by incomplete or poorly prepared submissions.
Fees for planning application services typically start from £1,200, depending on the scale and complexity of the proposal. This fee does not include the local authority’s planning application charge, which is payable separately.
Building Regulations – Full Plans & Technical Drawings
Marshall James Associates Ltd provides technical construction drawings and specifications for Full Plans Building Regulations applications relating to residential extensions and alterations. This service is intended to translate an approved planning proposal into a clear, buildable technical package suitable for Building Control approval.
We prepare detailed construction drawings addressing structure, thermal performance, fire safety and compliance with the Building Regulations, together with a written specification that clearly sets out materials, build standards and workmanship requirements. This specification can also be issued by clients to contractors as part of a tendering or pricing exercise, helping ensure quotations are based on consistent information.
Full Plans applications are prepared and coordinated for submission to Building Control, providing a robust technical basis for approval prior to works commencing.
Fees for Full Plans Building Regulation drawing packages typically start from £1,500, depending on the scale and complexity of the works. Building Control application fees are payable separately to the relevant authority or Approved Inspector.
Project Management & Contract Administration
Marshall James Associates Ltd provides project management and contract administration services for residential building works, acting as an independent professional intermediary between client and contractor. We prepare a bespoke MJA client–contractor contract and administer the works in accordance with agreed terms, Building Regulations and recognised British construction standards.
As Contract Administrator, we manage the administrative and payment process, ensuring that contractors are not paid deposits and are only paid for work that has been properly completed and inspected. This approach significantly reduces the risk of incomplete, poor-quality or non-compliant work and helps protect clients from common issues associated with unmanaged domestic building projects.
By separating design intent, compliance oversight and payment control from the contractor, this service promotes right-first-time construction, clearer accountability and a more controlled build process.
Project management and contract administration fees are typically charged at 10% of the contract sum, based on the total value of the works. For example, a £10,000 project would attract a £1,000 fee, and a £100,000 project a £10,000 fee.