RICS Level 2 Survey in Calverton

The RICS Level 2 Survey is specifically designed for properties in reasonable condition and provides a more detailed assessment than a basic mortgage valuation. Our surveyors will visually inspect all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space (where safe and accessible), the walls, floors, windows, doors, and critical areas like the bathroom and kitchen. We examine the condition of the building fabric and identify any defects that may affect the value or safety of the property.

During the survey, our chartered surveyors in Calverton will assess both the interior and exterior of the property, looking for signs of structural movement, damp penetration, rot in timber elements, and any issues with the electrical or plumbing installations that are visible without invasive investigation. We pay particular attention to the roof structure, as detached properties in Calverton often have complex roof designs with multiple valleys and dormer windows that can be prone to leaks if not properly maintained.

The survey also includes a valuation element, providing an insurance reinstatement figure and checking the property against current market values in Calverton. Our surveyor will compare the property to similar homes that have sold in the area recently, helping you understand if the asking price reflects the current market conditions. Given that detached properties in Calverton average around £373,000 and terraced properties around £194,000, this valuation comparison is invaluable for negotiation purposes.

Once the inspection is complete, you will receive a comprehensive RICS-format report that clearly outlines our findings. The report uses a traffic light system to rate different areas of the property - green for satisfactory condition, amber for defects requiring attention, and red for serious issues that need urgent repair. This clear formatting helps you prioritise any negotiation with the seller and understand exactly what maintenance or repairs you may face after moving in.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Structural condition assessment
• Damp and rot detection
• Valuation and market comparison
• Traffic light condition rating
• Professional recommendations

Calverton sits within Nottinghamshire, an area known for its clay-rich geology, particularly the Mercia Mudstone deposits. This type of geology can be susceptible to shrink-swell movement, where clay soils expand and contract with changes in moisture content. This ground movement can sometimes lead to subsidence or structural movement in properties, particularly those with shallow foundations. Our surveyors are trained to look for signs of subsidence, cracking, and movement that may indicate underlying ground instability.

The historical coal mining activity in parts of Nottinghamshire is another factor that buyers should be aware of. While not all properties in Calverton will be affected, many areas have a history of mining that could lead to ground movement. Our surveyors look for typical signs of mining-related subsidence, such as cracking patterns and settlement, but we always recommend obtaining a Coal Authority report for comprehensive information about past mining activity beneath the property.

Given the diverse nature of Calverton's housing stock, from £121,200 flats to £373,000 detached homes, our surveyors tailor their approach to each property type. Detached properties often have more complex roof structures and external walls that require thorough inspection, while terraced properties may share structural elements with neighbouring properties that need consideration. Regardless of the property type, our detailed assessment ensures you have complete information before completing your purchase.

• Clay soil shrink-swell risk
• Historical coal mining areas
• Older property electrical systems
• Period construction methods
• Mixed housing stock age
• Property type variations

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout the Nottinghamshire region, we frequently encounter several common defect patterns in Calverton homes. One of the most prevalent issues we identify is damp penetration, particularly in older properties where the original damp proof course may have failed or been bridged over time. This is especially common in properties with solid walls rather than cavity wall construction, which is prevalent in homes built before the 1980s.

Roof condition is another area where we often find issues during our Level 2 surveys. Many properties in Calverton have roofs that are approaching or have exceeded their expected lifespan. We inspect the tiles or slates for damage, check the flashing around chimneys and valleys, and assess the condition of the felt underlayment where accessible. In some cases, we find evidence of previous repairs that may not have been carried out to a professional standard.

The age of the housing stock in Calverton means that many properties will have original windows and doors that may be showing signs of wear and deterioration. While this is not necessarily a serious defect, it can affect the energy efficiency of the property and may require budgeting for replacement or renovation. Our survey report will note the condition of all windows and doors and flag any that require immediate attention.

We also commonly identify issues with guttering and drainage systems during our surveys. Blocked or damaged gutters can lead to water penetration problems and can cause damage to the building fabric over time. Our surveyors inspect all rainwater goods and note any deficiencies that could lead to future problems if not addressed.