RICS Level 2 Survey in HA0 1 Wembley

The RICS Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our chartered surveyors examine the main structural elements including walls, roofs, floors, ceilings, and foundations. We assess the condition of windows and doors, stairs, and built-in fixtures. The survey includes an evaluation of the property's services such as electrical systems, plumbing, and heating, though we note that these are visually inspected rather than tested. For properties in HA0 1, our surveyors pay particular attention to the common issues found in the local housing stock, which includes a significant proportion of properties built before 1980.

Given the predominance of flats in HA0 1 (66.7% of housing stock), our surveyors are experienced in assessing apartment buildings and the specific considerations that come with leasehold properties. We examine the external fabric of the building, communal areas, and any shared infrastructure. For the 16.7% of terraced properties and 11.1% of semi-detached homes in the area, we provide detailed assessments of roof conditions, gutter systems, and boundary walls that are particularly relevant to these property types. Our experience in the local area means we know exactly what to look for, whether it is the typical defects in post-war construction or the issues that arise in newer build apartments.

Our Level 2 survey uses a clear traffic light rating system to highlight issues: Red for serious defects requiring urgent attention, Amber for issues that should be attended to soon, and Green for satisfactory condition. Each section of the property receives this straightforward rating, allowing you to quickly identify the most critical matters. We also provide expert advice on remediation options and estimated costs where appropriate, helping you plan for any necessary works following your purchase. The report is designed to be clear and practical, giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your property purchase.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof, chimneys, and gutters
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp and timber condition
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Boundaries and drainage

Through our extensive experience surveying properties throughout the Wembley area, our inspectors have identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems are particularly common in older properties, manifesting as rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation. Properties built before 1980 often lack modern damp-proof courses or have ones that have failed over time. Our surveyors use moisture meters and visual indicators to assess damp levels and recommend appropriate remediation. In the older Victorian and Edwardian properties that make up 10.5% of the housing stock, we frequently find damp issues related to failed or non-existent damp-proof courses, particularly in ground floor rooms.

Roof defects represent another significant concern in the local housing stock. Older properties with slate or clay tile roofs often show signs of wear, including broken or missing tiles, defective flashings, and deteriorating pointing. Flat roofs on newer developments and extensions can suffer from membrane failures and ponding. Given that HA0 1 experiences its share of London weather, including heavy rainfall, gutters and downpipes frequently become blocked with debris, leading to water overflow and potential penetrating damp. Our surveyors pay particular attention to roof conditions, as repairs can be costly and water ingress can cause extensive damage to internal finishes and structural elements if left untreated.

Electrical and plumbing systems in pre-1980 properties frequently require upgrading to meet current regulations. Outdated consumer units, inadequate earthing, and old wiring that does not comply with Part P of the Building Regulations are common findings. Similarly, lead or galvanised steel pipes, which were standard in properties built before the 1970s, can affect water quality and pressure. Our survey provides a visual assessment of these services and flags any obvious concerns that should be addressed by qualified electricians or plumbers. We will recommend that any electrical or plumbing work be carried out by registered professionals who can provide the necessary certifications.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile damage and leaks
• Subsidence and structural movement
• Outdated electrical installations
• Dated plumbing systems
• Timber rot and woodworm

The Wembley area has seen significant regeneration in recent years, with new developments such as The Broadway by Network Homes and Wembley Parade by Anthology bringing modern apartments to the HA0 1 postcode. While new build properties may appear to be in perfect condition, a RICS Level 2 survey remains valuable for identifying any construction defects that may not be immediately apparent. Our surveyors are trained to spot the subtle signs of poor workmanship or materials that might be missed by an untrained eye. Even in new builds, we commonly identify issues such as inadequate sealing around windows, minor cracking in newly rendered walls, or discrepancies between the specification and the finished product.

The Broadway development offers 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments starting from £340,000, while Wembley Parade provides similar options in the North End Road area. These modern developments typically feature contemporary construction methods including steel frames, various cladding systems, and modern insulation. However, new builds can still have defects ranging from inadequate sealing around windows to issues with balcony railings or fire safety installations. Our detailed inspection provides for buyers investing in these new properties. We check that safety installations meet current building regulations and that the thermal envelope of the property is performing as expected.

It is worth noting that many properties in the broader Wembley Park regeneration fall under the HA9 postcode rather than HA0 1, so it is important to verify the exact postcode of any new development. Our surveyors are familiar with the various developments in the area and can provide targeted advice on the specific construction types and common issues associated with each. Whether your property is a brand new apartment or a Victorian terrace, we apply the same rigorous standards to our inspection, ensuring you receive accurate and comprehensive information about the property you are purchasing.