RICS Level 2 Survey in GU22 2 Woking

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property you are purchasing, covering all accessible areas of the building. We examine the roof structure, including tiles, flashing, and chimneys, while also checking the condition of gutters and drainage systems. Our inspectors assess the external walls for signs of cracking, damp penetration, or movement, which are particularly important in properties built on clay soils like those found in parts of Surrey. We have found that properties in the Woking area are frequently affected by clay-related ground movement, especially during the summer months when drought conditions can cause the soil to shrink and foundations to shift.

Inside the property, we evaluate the condition of walls, floors, and ceilings, looking for evidence of damp, structural movement, or previous repair work that may not meet current standards. We inspect the condition of doors and windows, testing their operation and assessing the quality of seals and hardware. Our survey also covers the condition of kitchen units, bathroom fittings, and other fixtures, identifying any defects or areas requiring attention. We commonly find issues in period properties where original features have deteriorated or where DIY improvements have fallen short of professional standards.

The electrical and heating systems receive visual inspection, with our surveyors noting the apparent condition of the consumer unit, wiring, and heating appliances. We cannot test hidden wiring or pipework, but we note any obvious concerns that should be investigated by specialists. The report includes clear photographs and descriptions of all identified issues, colour-coded by severity so you can quickly understand which items require urgent attention versus those that are minor cosmetic concerns. In older Woking properties, we frequently identify outdated electrical consumer units and missing earth bonding that would benefit from upgrading by a qualified electrician.

We also inspect the property's boundaries, outbuildings, and any shared areas relevant to the purchase. This includes checking the condition of garages, fences, and retaining walls that form part of the property. For properties near the River Wey, which flows through parts of Woking, we pay particular attention to any evidence of previous flooding or water damage that may affect the property's long-term durability and insurance implications.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and heating systems
• Windows and doors
• Drainage and gutters
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Properties across the GU22 2 area present several common issues that our surveyors regularly identify during inspections. Victorian and Edwardian properties, which make up a significant portion of the older housing stock, often suffer from outdated electrical wiring that does not meet current regulations. We frequently find older consumer units, missing earth bonding, and radial wiring systems that would benefit from upgrading. In our experience surveying properties in areas like Horsell and Old Woking, these electrical issues are among the most commonly identified defects in period homes.

Damp problems affect many period properties in the Woking area, particularly those with solid brick walls rather than modern cavity wall construction. Rising damp can occur where the damp proof course has failed or was never installed, while penetrating damp often affects walls exposed to prevailing winds. Our surveyors use moisture meters to identify areas of damp penetration and assess the likely cause and extent of any damp-related issues. We have found that properties with poor ventilation, particularly in bathrooms and kitchens, are particularly susceptible to condensation-related dampness that can lead to mould growth.

Roof condition is another common area of concern, especially for older properties with original roof coverings that may be approaching the end of their serviceable life. We inspect the condition of tiles or slates, checking for slippage, damage, or deterioration that could lead to water ingress. The condition of lead flashing around chimneys and roof windows is particularly important, as these are common failure points that can cause significant internal damage if not addressed. Many properties in the GU22 2 area have original clay tiles that are now over 100 years old and may need replacement soon.

Foundation movement is a significant concern for properties in Woking due to the underlying London Clay. Large trees planted near properties can extract moisture from the soil, causing it to shrink and leading to subsidence. Conversely, during periods of heavy rainfall, the clay can expand and cause heave. Our surveyors are trained to identify the signs of foundation movement, including cracking patterns in walls, doors that stick or don't close properly, and uneven floors. If we identify potential structural movement, we will recommend a specialist structural engineer's inspection to assess the severity and any necessary remediation.

• Outdated electrical installations
• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof deterioration and flashing defects
• Windows and door condition
• Foundation movement on clay soils
• Outdated heating systems