RICS Level 2 Survey in High Peak

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our Chartered Surveyors examine the walls, floors, ceilings, roof, chimneys, gutters, doors, and windows, as well as the condition of bathroom and kitchen fittings. The survey follows RICS standards and uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element: green for satisfactory condition, amber for repairs needed, and red for urgent defects requiring immediate attention. This systematic approach ensures that you receive a clear, easy-to-understand assessment of the property's condition.

In High Peak, where a significant proportion of housing stock consists of older stone-built properties, our surveyors pay particular attention to the unique characteristics of traditional construction. Stone-built terraces and barn conversions, common throughout the Glossop area and surrounding villages like Birch Vale and Hayfield, often present specific challenges including potential damp penetration through solid walls, the condition of traditional roof coverings, and the integrity of older chimney stacks. Our surveyors are familiar with these construction methods and can identify issues that a less experienced eye might miss. We have inspected hundreds of properties in the Peak District area and know exactly what to look for in properties built with local stone.

The survey also includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost assessment, which can be particularly valuable in High Peak where property prices have shown strong growth. Should our surveyor identify significant defects, we provide clear recommendations for further specialist investigations, such as structural engineer assessments or damp and timber surveys. This enables you to make an informed decision about your purchase and potentially negotiate a reduction in the purchase price to cover the cost of necessary repairs. Our valuation uses current High Peak market data, giving you an accurate picture of what similar properties are selling for in your specific location.

We also check the energy efficiency of the property as part of our assessment, noting the condition of insulation, heating systems, and double glazing. In older High Peak properties, particularly those with solid walls, energy efficiency can be a significant concern. Our report will highlight any obvious issues that might affect your future energy costs, helping you plan for any improvements you might want to make after moving in.

• Visual inspection of all accessible elements
• Condition ratings using traffic light system
• Market valuation and rebuild cost
• Recommendations for specialist investigations
• Clear summary of defects found
• Advice on repairs and maintenance

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout the High Peak area, several common issues frequently arise during inspections. The age of much of the local housing stock means that damp is a recurring concern, particularly in stone-built properties where solid walls lack modern cavity insulation. Our surveyors are trained to identify both the signs of damp and its potential causes, whether from rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation issues that may be related to inadequate ventilation. In properties near the River Etherow in Glossop or the River Goyt in Whaley Bridge, we also check for any signs of flooding or water damage that might indicate a flood risk.

Roof conditions represent another significant area of focus during our High Peak surveys. Many properties in the area feature traditional slate or stone tile roofs that may be approaching the end of their natural lifespan. We carefully assess the condition of roof coverings, flashings, chimneys, and gutters, noting any signs of damage, missing tiles, or deterioration that could lead to water ingress. Given the mountainous nature of parts of High Peak and exposure to weather from the Peak District, roof condition is particularly important. We often find that roofs on properties in exposed positions, such as those on the hills above Glossop or around Lantern Pike, may have suffered more wear than those in sheltered valleys.

The electrical and plumbing systems in older High Peak properties also warrant careful examination. While our survey is visual and does not test services, we can identify obvious signs of outdated wiring, consumer unit conditions, and plumbing materials that may be approaching the end of their reliable service life. Should our surveyor identify concerns in these areas, we will recommend engaging a qualified electrician or plumber for further investigation before you commit to your purchase. This is particularly important in older properties that may still have original wiring from the 1960s or earlier.

Window and door joinery is another area where we frequently find issues in High Peak properties. Wooden windows and doors in period properties can suffer from rot, particularly where paintwork has deteriorated or where water has penetrated. We check all windows and doors for operation, condition of seals, and any signs of wood rot or decay that might require attention. In modern developments, particularly newer builds, we pay attention to the quality of installation and any potential issues with double glazing or conservatory construction.

• Damp penetration in stone walls
• Roof condition and tile deterioration
• Chimney stability and flashing
• Outdated electrical installations
• Plumbing system age and condition
• Window and door joinery deterioration