RICS Level 2 Survey in Chandler's Ford

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of a property's accessible areas. Our chartered surveyors in Chandler's Ford examine the roof structure, walls, floors, windows, doors, and key building systems to identify defects that could affect value or require expensive repairs. The survey includes an assessment of the property's overall condition, highlighting both minor issues and significant defects that warrant attention.

For Chandler's Ford properties, this is particularly valuable given the local geology. The area sits on Eocene sediments including London Clay, which has shrink-swell potential that can affect foundations. Our inspectors know to look for signs of subsidence or heave, especially in older properties with shallower foundations near trees. The Monks Brook running through the area also means we pay close attention to any flooding risks or drainage concerns that might affect properties in lower-lying positions.

The Level 2 Survey uses a simple traffic light system to rate each element: green for condition that requires no immediate action, amber for defects that need attention but aren't serious, and red for serious issues requiring urgent repair. This clear format helps you prioritise repairs and negotiate with sellers based on the survey findings. Each report also includes a market valuation and rebuild cost assessment if you request these add-ons, giving you complete information for your purchase decision.

Our surveyors check for specific defects common to Chandler's Ford's housing stock. With 70.8% of properties built before 1980, we frequently encounter issues related to aging construction including outdated electrical wiring, original plumbing systems, and worn roof coverings. The predominance of brick cavity wall construction means we also examine wall ties, cavity insulation, and the condition of render finishes that can trap moisture if damaged.

• Roof and chimney inspection
• Wall and foundation assessment
• Damp and timber decay check
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Flood risk evaluation
• Energy efficiency advisory

Our experience surveying properties across Chandler's Ford and the surrounding Eastleigh area means we've identified recurring defect patterns specific to this locality. The London Clay geology creates particular challenges for homeowners. Properties with shallow foundations, especially those built before modern building regulations, can experience subsidence or heave when clay soils dry out during hot weather or become saturated after heavy rain. Large trees close to properties, common in this leafy suburb, can exacerbate these issues by extracting moisture from the clay. Our surveyors measure crack widths and monitor pattern cracking that might indicate structural movement rather than simple cosmetic settlement.

Damp problems feature regularly in our Chandler's Ford surveys. Rising damp affects many older properties, particularly where original damp-proof courses have failed or were never installed. Penetrating damp often appears in properties with degraded render, damaged brickwork, or faulty rainwater goods. Condensation is increasingly common in newer properties with modern sealing, where inadequate ventilation creates moisture buildup. Our inspectors check for these issues throughout the property, using moisture meters to confirm damp presence and recommend appropriate remediation. Properties near the Monks Brook in lower-lying areas particularly benefit from our thorough damp assessment.

Roof condition is another area requiring careful attention. Properties over 50 years old frequently show signs of wear including slipped tiles, deteriorated felt underlays, and corroded lead flashing. These defects can allow water ingress that causes internal damage to ceilings and walls. Our surveyors inspect roofs wherever safely accessible, using drones for high or complex roof structures when necessary. We also examine chimneys, which often show deterioration in their mortar pointing or flashing details on older properties.

Electrical and plumbing systems demand close inspection in Chandler's Ford's older homes. Properties built before the 1980s frequently contain original wiring that doesn't meet current regulations, creating potential fire hazards. Similarly, lead pipes or outdated galvanized steel plumbing may still be present, affecting water quality and pressure. Our survey reports flag these concerns and recommend full electrical and plumbing inspections by qualified specialists before you complete your purchase.

• Subsidence and heave related to clay soils
• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile slippage and felt failure
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Cracking to render and brickwork