RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey in Crosskeys

When you book a RICS Level 2 survey in Crosskeys, our inspectors conduct a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, and foundations, paying particular attention to issues common in this area. Given the mining heritage of Crosskeys and the presence of clay soils in parts of the South Wales Coalfield, we specifically assess signs of subsidence, crack patterns in external walls, and any evidence of ground movement that could indicate structural instability. Our surveyors are trained to recognise the subtle signs of mining-related subsidence that might be missed by less experienced inspectors.

Our surveyors check for damp penetration, which remains one of the most frequent defects found in older properties throughout the Caerphilly area. The South Wales climate, with its wet winters and changeable weather, takes a particular toll on traditional stone and brick construction. We inspect windows, doors, and joinery for signs of rot or water damage, and we examine the condition of roof coverings, gutters, and drainage systems. In properties built before the 1970s, we pay close attention to the condition of electrical wiring and plumbing, as these often require updating in older homes. Many Victorian and Edwardian properties in Crosskeys still have their original fuse boxes and galvanised plumbing, which can pose safety risks.

The flood risk in Crosskeys is another critical factor our inspectors consider. With the Sirhowy River running close to certain developments and 15.2% of properties in the area having some flood risk, we assess the effectiveness of existing flood defences and identify any signs of previous water damage or damp conditions that could indicate vulnerability to future flooding events. We examine ground levels, drainage patterns, and the orientation of the property to provide you with a clear picture of flood resilience. Surface water flooding is also a concern during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in lower-lying areas near the river.

Our inspection extends to the immediate surroundings of the property as well. We note any trees close to buildings, as their roots can cause subsidence in clay soils. We check boundary walls and outbuildings, which are often the first to show signs of movement in areas with unstable ground. For properties near the former industrial sites that now form part of the Newtown Industrial Estate area, we pay particular attention to ground conditions and any evidence of past mining activity. The coal tip safety investment in Wales means that while historical mining risks are being addressed, understanding the current condition of any former mining land remains important.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof condition and coverings
• Damp and moisture penetration
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Drainage and guttering
• Signs of subsidence or movement
• Flood risk indicators

The unique characteristics of Crosskeys make professional surveying particularly valuable for buyers in this area. Properties in this village span multiple eras of construction, from early terraced houses built to serve the mining community in the Victorian era through to modern energy-efficient apartments completed in 2025. Each era brings its own typical defects and maintenance requirements that our surveyors understand intimately. The transition from traditional mining cottages to modern housing reflects the evolution of the village itself, and understanding this progression helps us identify potential issues specific to each property type.

The former St Catherine's Church development on Gladstone Street represents the newest wave of housing in Crosskeys, comprising 16 energy-efficient apartments constructed with modern timber-frame methods. These new-build properties benefit from current building regulations but may still have snagging issues that our inspectors identify. Meanwhile, the approved Rainbow Developments proposal at Newtown Industrial Estate will bring 28 new homes to the area, including three-bedroom houses and bungalows that will require their own assessment considerations. Even new properties can have defects that only an experienced eye will spot, making a professional survey valuable regardless of the property's age.

Our inspectors have extensive experience with the traditional construction methods used throughout the South Wales Valleys. Properties here typically feature local stone and brickwork, with roofs covered in slate or tiles. Understanding how these materials perform in the local climate, particularly during wet Welsh winters, allows us to provide accurate assessments of maintenance requirements and potential problem areas. The older properties in Crosskeys often have solid walls rather than cavity walls, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration if not properly maintained. Our surveyors know what to look for and can advise on appropriate remediation.

Coleg Gwent's Crosskeys Campus serves as a key local employer and amenity, attracting families and professionals to the area. The ongoing investment in coal tip safety across Wales, including in the former mining communities of the South Wales Valleys, demonstrates the commitment to improving conditions in areas like Crosskeys. This investment affects property values and insurance considerations, and our surveyors can advise on any relevant matters relating to your specific property. The community continues to evolve while preserving its industrial heritage, creating a unique property market that requires specialist knowledge to navigate successfully.

• Victorian terraced houses (pre-1919)
• 1930s-1950s semi-detached homes
• Post-war housing estates
• 1980s-2000s developments
• New-build apartments and houses