Condition ratings
What does the Level 3 description say about hatches more than three metres up?
It says the surveyor uses a ladder for hatches and flat roofs no more than three metres above ground, where that is safe. A hatch above that, or a hatch that is unsafe, can be NI. The loft has not been rated just because the rest of the house has.
Last reviewed 24 October 2026. Written for buyers in England and Wales unless this answer says otherwise. No named surveyor has signed this page. It is general guidance, not a report on your house, and not legal advice.
What is the fuller explanation?
The three-metre line is a limit in the Level 3 description, not a challenge to the surveyor to borrow a longer ladder on the day. High landings, stairwell hatches and fragile ceilings are how lofts stay uninspected. The report should say so. If it does not, ask. A rating given to “roof structure” when the loft was not entered needs explaining.
If the loft matters, the next step is an inspection with the right access, agreed in advance, not a complaint that the surveyor lacked courage. That return visit may be a new fee. Ask. Do not climb a stranger’s stairwell on a second viewing and call it the missing survey.
What should you ask your surveyor?
- Was the loft entered, and if not, was the hatch above the limit or unsafe?
- Which roof comments are from the outside only?
- What access would a further inspection need?
What are the typical next steps?
- If the loft is NI, decide whether you will buy the roof structure unseen.
- Arrange proper access if you need the loft inspected. Do not improvise a ladder.
- Ask the firm whether a return visit is included before you assume it is.
Costs vary with the building and with who you instruct. Where this page does not cite a published figure, ask the surveyor, a relevant specialist, or your solicitor for a written quote. Do not treat a forum average as the price.
Also asked about this
Does three metres include the landing height?
The description says no more than three metres above ground. A hatch over a stairwell can be well above that even in a two-storey house. Ask which height applied here.
Can you waive the limit and ask the surveyor to go up anyway?
Only if they agree it is safe and it is in the instruction. You cannot waive their safety judgement from the pavement.