RICS Level 2 Survey in CR4 1 Mitcham

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our surveyor will examine the condition of the roof, walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, as well as the condition of any extensions or outbuildings. We check for signs of damp, rot, timber defects, structural movement, and any issues with the building's insulation and ventilation. The survey also includes an assessment of the property's services, such as the electrical system, plumbing, and heating, though we always recommend having a qualified electrician or gas engineer carry out specialist inspections for these systems.

In the CR4 1 area, our surveyors pay particular attention to the common issues that affect properties built on London Clay. This includes checking for signs of subsidence or heave, which can manifest as cracks in walls, doors that stick or don't close properly, and uneven floor levels. We also inspect the condition of drainage systems, as poor drainage can exacerbate clay-related movement. The survey will highlight any urgent defects that require immediate attention, as well as issues that may require future maintenance or repair.

Our Level 2 Survey uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element inspected. Red rating means the element requires urgent repair or investigation, amber means defects that require attention but are not urgent, and green means the element is in satisfactory condition. This clear, easy-to-understand format helps you prioritise any work that may be needed and negotiate with the seller if significant issues are identified.

The inspection also includes an assessment of the property's environment and external factors that may affect its value or habitability. Our surveyors will note the proximity to neighbouring properties, any rights of way or easements that may impact the property, and the general condition of the surrounding area. In CR4 1, we also check for any potential issues related to the local infrastructure, including the condition of roads, footpaths, and street lighting, as well as any upcoming developments that may affect the property's outlook or value.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, foundations, and damp proof course
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Floors, stairs, and ceilings
• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Electrical and gas services (visual inspection only)
• Garage and outbuildings
• Boundaries and drainage

Our experience surveying properties across the CR4 1 area has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp is perhaps the most common problem, affecting both older Victorian and Edwardian properties with solid walls and newer homes with cavity wall construction. Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground rises through walls due to a failed or missing damp proof course, while penetrating damp results from water ingress through damaged brickwork, roof tiles, or flashing. Condensation is also prevalent in poorly ventilated properties, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, and can lead to black mould growth that poses health risks. In period properties along streets like Tamworth Road and Lavender Road, we frequently find damp issues related to the original solid wall construction lacking adequate damp proofing.

Roof defects are another frequent finding in our CR4 1 surveys. Many properties in the area have roofs that are over 50 years old, and while regular maintenance can extend their lifespan, age-related deterioration is inevitable. Common roof issues include slipped or broken tiles, damaged or missing flashing around chimneys and valleys, and deterioration of roof felt that can lead to leaks. In properties with flat roofs, ponding water and failed waterproofing systems are common concerns that require immediate attention. We also inspect roof space insulation, as many older properties have insufficient insulation that leads to heat loss and higher energy bills.

Timber defects, including woodworm infestation and both wet and dry rot, are regularly identified in CR4 1 properties. These issues often arise as a consequence of damp problems, as wood-decaying fungi and beetles thrive in moist conditions. Our surveyors inspect all visible timber elements, including floor joists, roof timbers, window frames, and door frames, for signs of damage or infestation. If suspected woodworm or rot is found, we will recommend that you engage a specialist timber treatment contractor carries out a more detailed investigation. This is particularly important in properties with suspended timber floors, which are common in Victorian and Edwardian homes throughout Mitcham.

The underlying London Clay soil presents specific structural concerns for properties in CR4 1. Subsidence, where the ground beneath the property sinks, can cause significant structural damage if left unaddressed. Trees and shrubs planted close to properties can exacerbate clay shrinkage as their roots draw moisture from the soil. Our surveyors inspect for signs of subsidence, including vertical or diagonal cracks in walls (typically wider at the top than the bottom), doors and windows that don't close properly, and uneven or sagging floors. If subsidence is suspected, we will recommend that you engage a structural engineer for a more detailed assessment. Properties with shallow foundations, common in older buildings, are particularly vulnerable to movement, especially during periods of drought followed by heavy rainfall.