RICS Level 2 Survey in Bonnington

Bonnington's property market features a diverse mix of housing stock, with flats representing the majority of transactions in the area. Properties here range from traditional sandstone tenements to Victorian and Edwardian terraced homes, with many buildings dating back over 100 years. Our research shows that properties on streets like Bonnington Avenue have seen prices rise 10% above their 2020 peak, while Bonnington Road properties have increased 14% in the last year alone. Given this older housing stock and rapid price appreciation, a RICS Level 2 Survey provides essential insight into potential issues common to these property types, including damp penetration, roof condition, and the state of outdated electrical systems.

Our surveyors regularly inspect properties across Bonnington, familiarising themselves with the local construction methods and common defects found in the area. We have particular experience with the traditional sandstone-built tenements that dominate much of the EH6 postcode area, where weathering of stonework and moisture penetration are frequent concerns. The Level 2 survey includes a visual inspection of all accessible areas, from the roof space to the foundations, with defects rated according to their severity using the RICS traffic light system. You will receive a clear report that highlights urgent issues requiring immediate attention alongside those that may need future consideration.

The Level 2 survey also includes a market valuation estimate based on the property's current condition and local comparable sales data. For Bonnington properties, where prices have shown variation across different street locations, this valuation insight helps you understand whether the asking price reflects the property's actual condition and any repair requirements identified during the inspection. Our surveyors use up-to-date sales data from the Bonnington area, including recent transactions on streets like Bonnington Grove and the surroundingEH7 district, to provide an accurate market assessment that accounts for both the property's location and its condition.

Properties in Bonnington often feature traditional Scottish construction methods, including sandstone walls and slate or tile roofing. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying issues specific to these building types, such as weathering on stonework, slipped slates, and signs of damp penetration that are common in older properties. Many flats in Bonnington form part of tenement buildings with shared maintenance responsibilities, and our Level 2 surveys include assessment of communal areas where accessible, highlighting potential issues with shared roofs, foundations, or other elements that may involve multiple property owners.

Electrical systems in older properties often do not meet current regulations, and our surveys flag any visible concerns regarding the condition of wiring, consumer units, and socket outlets. In Bonnington properties built before the 1990s, we frequently find outdated consumer units lacking modern circuit protection, rubber-insulated wiring that has deteriorated over time, and a lack of earthing to modern standards. While we provide a visual inspection only, we always recommend a full electrical inspection by a qualified electrician before completion, particularly for properties over 30 years old.

Damp problems are among the most common issues our surveyors identify in Bonnington properties, particularly in the sandstone-built tenements that characterise much of the area. Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground rises through porous stonework, often visible as tide marks on ground floor walls. Penetrating damp results from water ingress through damaged pointing, faulty gutters, or compromised roof coverings, and is frequently found on the upper floors of period properties. Our surveyors will inspect all accessible walls for signs of damp staining, deterioration, and mold growth, and will recommend moisture readings where appropriate.

Roof conditions vary significantly across Bonnington depending on the age and type of property. Traditional slate roofs on Victorian and Edwardian properties may have slipped or broken slates, deteriorating mortar on ridge tiles, and worn flashing around chimneys and skylights. Flat roofs, more commonly found on extensions and modern developments, can suffer from ponding water, cracked felt, and damaged lead or code-compliant coverings. Our surveyors will access the roof space where safe and accessible to assess the overall condition and identify any areas requiring immediate attention or future maintenance.

Windows and doors in older Bonnington properties often show signs of wear and deterioration that affect both thermal efficiency and security. Original sash and case windows may have decayed timber sills and frames, failed putty that allows drafts and water ingress, and single glazing that fails to meet modern energy efficiency standards. External doors may have worn hinges, broken locks, or timber that has been affected by rot over many years of exposure to the Scottish climate.