RICS Level 2 Survey in Fetlar

A RICS Level 2 survey includes a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and services. The surveyor will identify any defects, assess their severity using a traffic light rating system, and provide advice on repairs and maintenance. The report provides clear guidance on whether issues require immediate attention or should be monitored over time. For properties in Fetlar, we pay particular attention to roof condition, damp penetration, and the condition of traditional construction elements that may not meet modern building standards.

The inspection itself typically takes between 1-2 hours depending on the size and complexity of the property. Properties on Fetlar can vary significantly, from small croft cottages to larger traditional houses, so the time required may vary. A modest two-room croft cottage might be completed in around an hour, while a larger lairds' house like Brough Lodge would require more extensive inspection time. You will receive your written report within 3-5 working days of the inspection, delivered electronically for convenience.

Even new build properties can benefit from a Level 2 survey. While there are no active residential new-build developments in Fetlar currently, if you are purchasing a newer property or one that has been recently constructed, a survey can identify any issues with workmanship or materials that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. Properties constructed in the 1970s, such as the Shetland Islands Council housing estate, also benefit from survey assessment as they approach 50 years of age and may have specific maintenance requirements. A Level 2 survey on any property helps you understand exactly what you are purchasing, regardless of its age.

Yes, a Level 2 survey includes a visual assessment of the property's structural integrity. Our surveyor will look for signs of movement, subsidence, structural damage, or conditions that might indicate future problems. On Fetlar, we pay particular attention to foundation conditions, especially for properties built on peat deposits or near areas of complex geology. Where specific concerns are identified, we will recommend further investigation by a structural engineer. The report will clearly flag any areas where structural movement has occurred or where conditions suggest potential future movement.

If significant defects are identified in your survey report, you have several options. You can request that the seller address the issues before completion, negotiate a reduction in the purchase price to cover repair costs, or in some cases, decide not to proceed with the purchase. Your surveyor will provide clear guidance on the implications of any findings, distinguishing between issues that are urgent, those that should be addressed in the medium term, and those that simply require monitoring. Many buyers use the survey report as a negotiating tool, and our team can provide guidance on realistic repair costs for the issues identified.

Yes, our surveyors have experience inspecting properties throughout the Shetland Islands, including Fetlar. They understand the unique construction methods used in island properties, including traditional stone buildings, peat-built structures, and the specific challenges posed by the local geology and climate. We are familiar with the various property types from modest crofters' cottages to substantial historic houses, and we understand how the island's exposure to Atlantic weather affects building condition. When you book with us, you are getting surveyors who truly understand the local property market and housing stock.

We provide RICS Level 2 surveys throughout Fetlar, covering all the main settlement areas including Houbie, Midbert, Funzie, and the surrounding crofting townships. Our surveyors travel to the island as needed, coordinating with the ferry services that connect Fetlar to Yell and the mainland. Regardless of where your property is located on the island, we ensure that a qualified surveyor visits and conducts a thorough inspection. We are familiar with the challenges of accessing properties in remote island locations and plan our inspections accordingly.

Our RICS Level 2 surveys in Fetlar start from £300, with the exact cost depending on the size and type of property being surveyed. Larger properties or those with complex construction will be priced accordingly. The investment is particularly valuable given the diverse range of property types on Fetlar and the specific issues that can affect island properties. When you request a quote, we provide a fixed price that includes the inspection, the detailed written report, and any follow-up support you need.