RICS Level 2 Survey Colan

A RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey includes a thorough visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property, including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, damp course, and services. The surveyor produces a report using a traffic light system to rate the condition of each element, with red indicating urgent issues requiring attention, amber for defects requiring future repair, and green for satisfactory condition. The report includes advice on legal issues and highlights the importance of any recommendations for further investigation. For properties in Colan, we specifically check for issues related to coastal exposure, clay soil movement, and the older construction methods common in Cornwall.

The cost of a RICS Level 2 Survey in Colan typically starts from around £550 for a standard property, with the exact price depending on factors such as the property's size, age, construction type, and location. For larger properties, those with unusual features, or older properties requiring more detailed inspection, prices may be higher. Given that the average property value in Colan is £710,000, the investment in a professional survey provides valuable protection for your purchase decision. The price represents excellent value when you consider the potential cost of unexpected repairs.

Even new build properties can benefit from a RICS Level 2 Survey. While newer properties typically have fewer defects than older homes, our surveyors can still identify any issues with the build quality, snagging items, or problems with fittings and finishes that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. For new builds in the Colan area, we check that all installations have been completed to appropriate standards and identify any work that may not comply with building regulations. We can also spot any issues arising from the specific site conditions, such as ground movement or drainage concerns, that may affect even newly constructed properties.

Cornwall properties often present specific issues related to the county's maritime climate and older housing stock. Common defects include damp in solid walls (due to the age of construction and exposure to rain), roof decay affecting slate and thatch coverings, timber rot in floor structures and roof timbers, salt corrosion on metal elements near the coast, and structural movement caused by clay soil subsidence. Properties in the Colan area are particularly susceptible to these issues due to the coastal location and the prevalence of older traditional buildings. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying these Cornwall-specific issues and will provide detailed advice on any remediation required.

A RICS Level 2 Survey includes a visual inspection for signs of subsidence or ground movement, which may indicate issues related to historical mining activity or clay soil shrinkage. Our surveyors will look for cracking in walls, uneven floors, and other indicators of structural movement. Cornwall has a significant historical mining legacy, and while many old mine workings have collapsed over time, some areas may still present ground risks. If significant concerns are identified, the report will recommend further investigation by a structural engineer or geotechnical specialist who can assess the ground conditions in more detail. This is particularly important for properties in areas with known historical mining activity.

The on-site inspection for a RICS Level 2 Survey typically takes between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property. Smaller properties may be completed in around 2 hours, while larger homes, those with extensive outbuildings, or period properties with complex construction may require more time. After the inspection, you will receive your written report within 3-5 working days. For larger or more complex properties in the Colan area, we may recommend allowing additional time for the inspection to ensure a thorough assessment.

Our surveyors inspect all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space (where safe access is possible), the exterior walls, windows, and doors, the interior walls and ceilings, the floors and staircases, the kitchen and bathroom fixtures, and any services that are visible. We will move furniture where it is safe to do so and lift loose floorboards to check for damp or timber defects. Outbuildings, garages, and the property boundaries are also inspected where accessible. For properties in Colan, we pay particular attention to the roof structure, given the prevalence of slate and thatch roofing in the area.

Yes, we actively encourage buyers to attend the survey so they can see any issues firsthand and ask questions as the inspection progresses. Attending the survey gives you a much better understanding of the property's condition and allows the surveyor to explain any concerns in person. For properties in the Colan area, this is particularly valuable as our surveyors can point out specific features related to local construction methods and any environmental factors affecting the property. Please let us know when booking if you would like to attend, and we will arrange a suitable time.