RICS Level 2 Survey in Firsdown

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. The surveyor will examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and permanent fixtures and fittings, identifying any defects or areas of concern that could affect the property's value or require attention. The survey follows RICS guidelines and uses a clear traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each element inspected, making it easy for you to understand which issues require immediate attention and which are less urgent.

The inspection includes a thorough assessment of the property's structural integrity, checking for signs of movement, dampness, rot, or other structural concerns that might not be visible during a standard viewing. Our surveyor will also inspect the condition of the roof, including the covering materials, chimneys, and flashings, as well as the condition of the gutters and drainage systems. In Firsdown, where properties range from older detached houses to newer bungalow developments, our surveyors are experienced in assessing all property types found in the area.

Additionally, the Level 2 survey includes a review of the property's services, such as the electrical system, gas supply (where applicable), and plumbing. Our surveyor will note any obvious defects or areas where installations appear to be outdated or non-compliant with current regulations. While the survey is not a full structural calculation or a test of the systems, it provides a valuable overview that helps you understand the property's overall condition and any immediate works that may be required.

Our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in older properties throughout the Firsdown area. These include deteriorating roof coverings, signs of damp penetration in solid walls, outdated electrical installations that may not meet current Part P regulations, and the condition of window frames and joinery. We also check for any evidence of subsidence or movement that could indicate foundation issues, which is particularly important for properties built on variable ground conditions.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Windows and doors
• Damp and timber assessment
• Electrical and gas services
• Drainage and gutters

Properties in Firsdown reflect the building traditions of rural Wiltshire, with a mix of construction types that our surveyors encounter regularly. Older properties in the village are typically constructed with solid brick walls, often rendered with lime-based or cement-based renders that can be susceptible to cracking and damp penetration over time. Many detached houses in the area feature traditional pitched roofs with slate or clay tile coverings, which require regular inspection to ensure tiles remain secure and flashings remain watertight.

Newer developments in Firsdown, such as those on Firs Road, utilise modern construction methods including cavity wall construction with insulation and UPVC windows and doors. The development at 26 Firs Road exemplifies modern building techniques, with elevations finished in low-maintenance render and UPVC fascias and soffits. While these newer properties generally require less maintenance, our surveyors still check for potential issues such as inadequate ventilation in roof spaces, which can lead to condensation problems, and the condition of modern sealants around windows and doors.

Understanding these local construction methods is essential for identifying defects that might not be apparent to an untrained buyer. For example, solid wall properties built before cavity wall insulation became standard may lack adequate thermal efficiency, while older properties with original joinery may have windows that are difficult to operate or have deteriorated sills and frames. Our surveyors know what to look for in each property type and will highlight any concerns in your report.

Our experience surveying properties throughout Firsdown has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp penetration is one of the most common problems we encounter, particularly in older properties with solid walls where rising damp or penetrating damp can cause damage to plasterwork and decorations. Our surveyors use thermal imaging equipment and moisture meters to assess the extent of any damp problems and recommend appropriate remediation measures.

Roof condition is another frequent area of concern, especially on properties over 30 years old where original tiles may have become brittle or mortar joints have deteriorated. We inspect all accessible roof spaces for signs of leaks, timber decay, and inadequate insulation. In Firsdown, where many properties have traditional pitched roofs, we pay particular attention to the condition of ridge tiles, hip joints, and valley gutters, which are common failure points.

Electrical installations in older properties often require upgrading to meet current safety standards. We note any visible electrical defects such as outdated consumer units, missing earth bonding, or damaged cabling that would need attention from a qualified electrician. Similarly, plumbing systems in period properties may feature old galvanised pipes that are prone to corrosion and reduced water pressure, which we identify during our inspection.

Defective joinery is another issue we regularly identify, particularly in properties with original timber windows and doors. Rot affected timber, failed seals in double-glazed units, and deteriorating external doors can all lead to security concerns and energy efficiency issues. Our detailed report will identify any such defects and recommend appropriate repairs or replacements.

Once your survey is complete, you will receive a comprehensive report that follows RICS standards and provides a clear assessment of the property's condition. The report uses a traffic light system to rate different elements: red for urgent issues requiring attention, amber for defects that should be addressed, and green for satisfactory condition. This straightforward approach helps you prioritise any remedial work and understand the potential costs involved.

For properties in Firsdown, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in the local area. While the area does not have significant flood risk or mining history concerns, older properties may have issues related to damp penetration, roof condition, or outdated electrical installations. The report will clearly identify any such issues and provide recommendations for further investigation or repair.

Your surveyor will also provide a property valuation as part of the Level 2 survey, giving you an independent assessment of the market value. This can be particularly useful in the current market conditions in Firsdown, where prices have been adjusting. If the valuation differs significantly from the asking price, you may be able to use this information to negotiate a better deal.

We understand that receiving a survey report with identified issues can be concerning, which is why our team is on hand to explain the findings and recommend appropriate next steps. Whether you need to consult a damp specialist, a roofer, or a structural engineer, we can put you in touch with trusted local contractors who can provide detailed quotations for any recommended works.