RICS Level 2 Survey in B47 6

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and joinery, as well as the condition of bathrooms and kitchens. The survey also includes an assessment of the property's overall condition and any obvious defects that might require attention. Our inspectors check for signs of damp, structural movement, roof defects, and issues with windows or doors that could indicate underlying problems.

In B47 6, where we see a good mix of property ages and types, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issue areas. For properties in this area, we assess the condition of roofing materials, check for any signs of subsidence or movement, and examine the condition of damp proof courses and ventilation systems. We also inspect the condition of extensions or alterations that may have been carried out on the property over the years.

The report includes a clear traffic light rating system that shows the condition of each major element of the property. Red indicates urgent issues that require immediate attention, amber highlights defects that should be remedied, and green shows areas in satisfactory condition. This straightforward approach helps you understand exactly what you are buying and what investment may be needed after completion.

Beyond the visual inspection, our survey includes a market valuation based on the current condition of the property. We also provide an insurance reinstatement figure, which is essential for ensuring you have adequate building insurance cover. The energy efficiency assessment gives you insight into the property's thermal performance and potential improvement measures.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Assessment of construction and condition
• Identification of defects and their severity
• Market valuation based on current condition
• Insurance reinstatement figure for rebuild costs
• Energy efficiency assessment

Properties in the B47 6 area, like others in Birmingham, can suffer from a range of common defects that our surveyors regularly identify. These include roofing issues such as damaged or missing tiles, deteriorated lead flashing, and problems with flat roof coverings. We also frequently find signs of damp penetration, particularly in older properties where original damp proof courses may have failed or been breached by later alterations. The mix of property ages in B47 6 means we see everything from relatively modern homes to properties that may be several decades old, each with their own typical defect patterns.

Windows and doors are another common area of concern. Many properties in this area have uPVC or aluminium windows that may have faulty seals or mechanisms, while older timber windows may show signs of rot or decay. Our surveyors inspect all windows and doors thoroughly, checking operation and condition throughout the property. We pay particular attention to double glazing units, checking for condensation between panes which indicates seal failure. In older properties, we often find timber window frames that require repainting or repair to prevent ongoing decay.

The condition of bathrooms and kitchens is also assessed, including checking for leaks, adequate ventilation, and the condition of seals around showers and baths. We note any signs of water damage or previous leaks that might indicate ongoing problems. In properties with gas heating systems, we check the condition of visible pipework and advise on the need for a separate gas safety certificate. Our inspection also covers electrical consumer units, though we always recommend a full electrical inspection by a qualified electrician for .

The local geology in parts of Birmingham can sometimes lead to clay-related ground movement, particularly in properties with shallow foundations. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of subsidence or settlement that may indicate underlying ground conditions worth investigating further. We examine walls for cracks that might suggest movement, check for signs of previous underpinning or structural repairs, and assess the overall stability of the property's foundations. While major structural issues are not common in B47 6, our thorough inspection ensures any concerns are identified early.

Once you receive your RICS Level 2 report, you will find it clearly organised into distinct sections covering each major building element. Each section receives a red, amber, or green rating based on its condition, making it easy to prioritise any remedial work. The report starts with a summary of the property's overall condition and key concerns, followed by detailed findings for each area inspected.

The market valuation provided in your report reflects the current condition of the property. This is particularly useful in B47 6 where property prices can vary significantly between properties in similar streets but with different conditions. If significant defects are identified, the valuation may be adjusted to reflect the cost of necessary repairs, giving you a realistic picture of the property's true market value. This adjustment can be a powerful tool in price negotiations with the seller.

Your report also includes the insurance reinstatement figure, which represents the estimated cost to rebuild the property from scratch if it were destroyed. This figure is crucial for ensuring you have appropriate buildings insurance cover. Many buyers are surprised to learn that the reinstatement value can differ significantly from the market value, particularly for older properties with unique construction features common in parts of B47 6.