RICS Level 2 Survey Eastleigh

Our RICS Level 2 Survey, also known as a Home Survey, provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's condition focusing on issues that are most relevant to the age and type of property typical in Eastleigh. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and other visible elements, identifying defects that could affect the value or safety of the property. The survey includes an assessment of the property's construction, any obvious alterations, and the overall condition of the building.

Given Eastleigh's geology, which includes London Clay Formation with overlying Brickearth and River Terrace Deposits, our surveyors pay particular attention to signs of subsidence, heave, or movement that can affect properties in the area. We look for characteristic cracks in walls, doors that stick or don't close properly, and uneven floors that may indicate ground movement. The shrink-swell potential of the local clay soil means that properties with large trees nearby or inadequate foundations are particularly at risk, and we flag these concerns accordingly.

We also check for issues commonly found in Eastleigh's housing stock, including damp problems in older properties built before 1919 (which make up 10.1% of the local stock), roof condition issues on properties from the 1945-1980 era (36.6% of properties), and the state of electrical and plumbing systems in properties that may not have been updated for decades. For properties in the various conservation areas around Eastleigh, we note any specific concerns related to historic buildings and traditional construction methods, including the solid brick walls and timber floors typical of older period homes.

The RICS Level 2 Survey includes a clear traffic light rating system that highlights the condition of different elements: red for urgent issues requiring attention, amber for defects that need resolving, and green for satisfactory condition. This visual format helps you quickly identify which areas need immediate attention and which are functioning as expected. We also provide practical advice on maintenance and repairs that will help protect your investment long-term.

• Wall and foundation inspection
• Roof and chimney assessment
• Damp and timber condition check
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Floor structure evaluation
• Conservation area considerations

Eastleigh is experiencing significant development with multiple new-build sites across the town. Developments like Boyatt Wood by Bargate Homes offering 2, 3, and 4-bedroom homes, North Stoneham Park by Highwood Homes and Countryside Partnerships with properties ranging from 2-bedroom apartments to 5-bedroom houses, and The Hamptons by David Wilson Homes with 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes are all transforming the local landscape. These modern developments offer attractive options for buyers seeking new construction in a well-connected location.

While new properties may seem low-risk, a RICS Level 2 Survey remains valuable for identifying snagging issues, construction defects, or problems with finishes that builders may need to address under their warranty obligations. Even on newer developments, our surveyors can identify issues such as inadequate insulation, poorly fitted windows, or cosmetic defects that aren't immediately obvious. We check that windows and doors operate correctly, inspect the quality of finishes, and look for signs of any water ingress or construction shortcuts that could cause problems down the line.

The Level 2 Survey provides you with a professional assessment that can be used to negotiate with the developer or to ensure that any remaining works are completed to an acceptable standard. Many buyers have found that their survey identified issues that were subsequently resolved by the builder, making the survey fee a worthwhile investment. With developments like Knights Quarter, The Hedgerows, and The Nurseries from Barratt Homes and VIVID's Stoneham Green and The Pavilions, there are plenty of options for new-build buyers in Eastleigh who would still benefit from our independent assessment.

For properties in these Barratt Homes developments including Knights Quarter and The Hedgerows, as well as VIVID's Stoneham Green and The Nurseries, our surveys cover all aspects of modern construction while being alert to any issues that may arise with newer building methods. The comprehensive report gives you confidence in your purchase and provides a valuable record of the property's condition at the time of purchase, which can be useful for warranty purposes and future resale.

Eastleigh contains several conservation areas, including parts of the town centre, Chandler's Ford, and areas along the River Itchen. Properties in these designated areas often have special architectural or historic interest, and purchasing such a property requires additional consideration. Our RICS Level 2 Survey notes the property's location within a conservation area and highlights any specific concerns related to historic buildings and traditional construction methods that may affect the property's value or require specific maintenance approaches.

Properties in conservation areas may have restrictions on alterations or improvements, and our survey can flag any visible issues that might require Listed Building Consent or planning permission to resolve. We note the condition of original features such as sash windows, decorative brickwork, and traditional roofing materials that are often characteristic of period properties in these areas. This helps you understand not just the current condition but also the ongoing maintenance responsibilities that come with owning a historic property.

Older properties in these areas often feature traditional building materials and construction methods that require specialist knowledge. While a standard RICS Level 2 Survey provides valuable information, we may recommend a structural engineer or heritage specialist for particularly significant historic properties, especially those that are listed buildings. The town's conservation areas contain numerous listed buildings ranging from historic houses to churches and industrial structures that reflect Eastleigh's railway heritage.

When purchasing a listed property, be aware that additional responsibilities come with ownership, and our survey can help identify maintenance issues specific to historic buildings that may require specialist contractors. We can advise on the condition of traditional features and whether any immediate repairs are needed to prevent further deterioration. This level of detail helps you budget appropriately for the ongoing maintenance that historic properties often require.