RICS Level 2 Survey in IG7 4 Chigwell

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and joinery, assessing their current condition and identifying any defects, disrepair, or potential future problems. The survey uses a clear traffic light rating system - red for urgent issues requiring attention, amber for matters that should be noted and monitored, and green for satisfactory condition. This straightforward approach makes it easy for you to understand exactly what you are buying and prioritize any negotiations with the seller based on the findings.

In properties throughout IG7 4, our surveyors frequently encounter issues related to the age and construction type of local housing stock. Many properties in this area were built using traditional brick construction, which is generally robust but can present challenges such as cracking, damp penetration, or deterioration of mortar joints over time. We also inspect roofing materials, checking for missing or damaged tiles, signs of leaks, and the condition of fascias and soffits. Our inspectors will lift accessible trap doors to view hidden areas where feasible, giving you as complete a picture as possible of the property's structural integrity.

The Level 2 survey includes assessment of all major built-in appliances mentioned in the property and tests of basic services such as water, electricity, and heating. We check the condition of kitchen units, bathroom fittings, and plumbing fixtures, noting any leaks, damage, or signs of poor installation. While this is not a full structural engineering assessment, our survey provides enough detail for you to understand the property's overall condition and make a confident decision about proceeding with your purchase or renegotiating the price based on our findings.

Our team pays particular attention to common issues we see in IG7 4 properties, including roof condition given the mix of ages in local housing, the state of damp-proof courses which can fail in older brickwork, and the condition of windows and doors which can deteriorate in properties of any age. We document everything with photographs and provide clear recommendations for any remedial work that may be required, giving you practical guidance on the next steps.

• Walls and structural elements
• Roof, chimneys, and drainage
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Floors and ceilings
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and gas services
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Parking facilities (where applicable)

The IG7 4 area has seen residential development in recent years, including new-build schemes like EDGE by Countryside Homes in nearby Hainault. While new properties may come with the protection of NHBC or other structural warranties, a Level 2 survey remains valuable for several reasons. First, the survey can identify any snagging issues or defects that the developer may need to address. Second, it provides independent verification of the property's condition, which may reveal issues not immediately apparent to a buyer. Third, even new builds can have problems with workmanship, materials, or design that warrant attention before you move in.

The EDGE development on Manford Way offers 1-bedroom apartments and houses priced from £269,995 to £297,500, featuring private podium gardens, open-plan layouts, and private balconies or terraces. While these properties represent modern construction, our experience shows that new builds can still have hidden defects that only become apparent through careful inspection. We check that windows and doors operate correctly, that damp-proof courses are intact, and that all mechanical systems function as they should.

For new-build purchases in IG7 4, we recommend booking your survey as early as possible in the buying process so that any issues can be raised with the developer before completion. This proactive approach often saves buyers significant hassle and expense down the line. Our surveyors document everything thoroughly, providing you with a comprehensive record that can be invaluable if any disputes arise with the developer or warranty provider later.