RICS Level 2 Survey Ferndale

The RICS Level 2 Survey is specifically designed for properties in reasonable condition that are being sold on the open market. It provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space (where safe and accessible), external walls, windows, doors, damp proofing, and the condition of key structural elements. Our chartered surveyors in Ferndale follow the strict RICS guidelines, ensuring you receive a consistent, professional assessment that meets industry standards. The survey covers the main building, any garages or outbuildings, and includes an assessment of the overall condition with clear ratings for each element inspected.

Unlike a basic mortgage valuation, which focuses solely on the property's security for the lender, the Level 2 Survey is designed entirely for your benefit as a buyer. We inspect the property from top to bottom, looking for defects that might not be immediately obvious to an untrained eye. This includes checking for signs of damp, timber defects such as rot or woodworm, issues with the roof covering and flashing, the condition of windows and doors, and any signs of structural movement or settlement. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying both obvious defects and more subtle issues that could become major problems down the line.

One of the key advantages of the RICS Level 2 Survey is the clear, traffic-light rating system that we use throughout the report. Each element of the property is rated as either Green (no repair needed), Amber (needs attention but not urgent), or Red (requires urgent attention or structural repair). This makes it easy for you to see at a glance which areas need the most urgent attention, and you can use this information to plan for future maintenance costs or negotiate with the seller if significant issues are found. The report typically runs to 10-20 pages and provides a clear, easy-to-understand assessment of the property's overall condition.

Our surveyors pay particular attention to issues commonly found in traditional Welsh valley properties, including the condition of solid wall constructions, traditional timber sash windows, and older roofing systems. We understand that many Ferndale properties were built to house mining families in the 19th century, and while these homes have tremendous character, they require a knowledgeable eye to assess their condition accurately. We document everything we find, from minor cosmetic defects to major structural concerns, ensuring you have a complete picture before completing your purchase.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, foundations and damp assessment
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible systems
• Timber floors and staircases
• Garages and outbuildings

Given the age and construction type of most properties in Ferndale, there are several issues that our surveyors frequently encounter during Level 2 Surveys. Damp is perhaps the most common problem, particularly in ground floor properties and those with solid walls. This can manifest as rising damp where the damp proof course has failed or been breached, penetrating damp from damaged roof coverings or faulty guttering, or condensation damp caused by inadequate ventilation. Our surveyors will identify the type and cause of any dampness and recommend appropriate remedies. In properties of this age, damp can sometimes be cosmetic, but it can also indicate more serious structural issues that need addressing.

Roof conditions are another frequent area of concern in Ferndale's older properties. Many properties have traditional slate or tile roofs that, while durable, can suffer from slipped or broken tiles, deterioration of lead flashing around chimneys and valleys, and timber decay in rafters and battens. Our surveyors inspect the roof from both inside the accessible roof space and from ground level, using binoculars where necessary, to assess the overall condition and identify any areas requiring repair. Given the heavy rainfall that the Rhondda Valley can experience, roof defects can quickly lead to water ingress and damage to internal decorations and structural elements.

The electrical and plumbing systems in older Ferndale properties also warrant careful inspection. Many homes still have original or early consumer units, dated wiring that does not meet current regulations, and old plumbing materials such as lead or galvanised steel pipes. While not all older systems are dangerous, they may not comply with modern standards and could represent a safety hazard or require upgrading before long. Our surveyors note the apparent condition of visible electrical and plumbing installations and recommend further investigation by qualified specialists where necessary. This is particularly important for properties that may have had limited updating since their original construction.

Structural movement is another consideration in Ferndale properties, particularly given the area's mining heritage. While significant structural problems are not common, our surveyors are trained to identify signs of past movement such as cracks in walls, door and window frames that no longer close properly, or uneven floors. We will assess whether any movement appears to be active and stable, or whether it warrants further investigation by a structural engineer. This is one of the reasons why a professional survey is so valuable - structural issues can be expensive to remedy if not identified early.

When you book a RICS Level 2 Survey with us in Ferndale, you are choosing a service backed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the UK's leading professional body for surveyors. Our chartered surveyors have extensive experience inspecting properties throughout the Rhondda Valley and understand the specific characteristics and potential issues found in local housing stock. We are committed to providing you with a thorough, unbiased assessment that gives you the confidence to proceed with your property purchase.

We believe that our survey reports should be clear and accessible, not filled with technical jargon that leaves you confused. Our surveyor will explain their findings in plain English, highlighting any issues that need attention and providing practical advice on what to do next. Whether you are a first-time buyer or an experienced property investor, we treat every survey with the same attention to detail, ensuring you receive the information needed to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Our competitive pricing starts from just £350 for a standard RICS Level 2 Survey in Ferndale, with no hidden fees or additional charges. We understand that buying a property involves many costs, and we aim to provide our professional survey services at a price that represents excellent value for money. The investment in a survey could save you thousands of pounds in unexpected repair costs or provide you with valuable leverage when negotiating the purchase price with the seller.