RICS Level 2 Survey Innsworth

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's visible and accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and identifying any defects that might affect the value or safety of the property. Our surveyor will examine the roof structure, walls, floors, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems where visible. We check for signs of damp, rot, timber defects, structural movement, and any issues with the building's fabric. Each survey is conducted by a fully qualified RICS chartered surveyor who understands the specific construction methods and common issues found in properties across Gloucestershire.

In Innsworth, where many properties sit on clay-rich Mercia Mudstone geology, our surveyors pay particular attention to signs of subsidence, heave, or ground movement that can affect properties with shallower foundations. We also check for issues commonly found in the local housing stock, including damp in older properties, roof deterioration on homes over fifty years old, and the condition of drainage systems in areas prone to surface water flooding. The resulting report uses a clear traffic light system to rate each element of the property, making it easy for you to see which areas require immediate attention and which are in satisfactory condition.

The Level 2 Survey is specifically recommended for properties in conventional construction such as houses, bungalows, and flats. It is ideal for properties built after 1900, which represents a significant proportion of the housing stock in Innsworth. Given that an estimated 40-60% of properties in the area are over 50 years old, the Level 2 Survey is particularly valuable for identifying common defects in this aging stock. The survey includes a market valuation and rebuild cost assessment, which is particularly useful for insurance purposes and helps you understand if the property is priced appropriately for its condition.

Our local experience means we understand that properties in certain parts of Innsworth may be affected by the underlying clay geology, particularly those with large trees nearby or shallower foundations typical of pre-war construction. We also know that some areas near the Horsbere Brook and other drainage channels can experience surface water flooding during heavy rainfall, which can lead to damp issues in ground floor properties. This expert insight is included in your report, giving you information that generic online searches simply cannot provide.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp and moisture detection
• Plumbing and electrical visible elements
• Drainage and gutters
• Extensions and alterations

Based on our experience surveying properties across Innsworth and the surrounding Gloucester area, several issues frequently appear in our reports. Damp is perhaps the most common problem, particularly in older properties built before 1980. Rising damp occurs when moisture from the ground rises through brickwork, while penetrating damp often results from damaged gutters, missing roof tiles, or degraded pointing that allows rain to penetrate the external walls. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify the type and cause of damp, distinguishing between minor condensation issues and more serious penetrating damp that requires remediation.

Roof condition is another area where we frequently find issues, especially in properties over fifty years old. Tiles can slip or crack, felt can deteriorate, and flashings can fail, leading to water ingress that may not be immediately visible from the ground. In Innsworth, where there is a mix of slate, clay tile, and concrete tile roofs, each material has its own lifespan and common failure points that our surveyors understand. We also check for timber defects including woodworm and rot, which can compromise the structural integrity of roofs and floors if left untreated. Properties with poor ventilation or existing damp problems are particularly susceptible to timber decay.

Electrical and plumbing issues are also commonly identified in our surveys. Properties built before the 1980s often have wiring that does not meet current regulations, and consumer units may be outdated or lack adequate safety features. Similarly, lead pipes or galvanized steel plumbing, common in older homes, can affect water quality and may need replacement. Our survey reports highlight these issues and indicate whether immediate professional attention is required or whether they can be planned as future improvements.

We also commonly find drainage issues in Innsworth properties, particularly in areas prone to surface water flooding. Blocked or damaged drains, inadequate falls, and outdated drainage systems can lead to damp problems and localized flooding. Additionally, many older properties may contain asbestos-containing materials in textured coatings, old pipe insulation, or garage roofs, which our surveyors will note if identified during the inspection.

Innsworth continues to expand with new developments, most notably Innsworth Park Phase 2 on Innsworth Lane. While new build properties come with the protection of NHBC or similar structural warranties, a RICS Level 2 Survey is still highly recommended. New homes can have defects that are not immediately apparent, including issues with sealants, fittings, and internal systems that may not be covered under warranty. Our surveyors are trained to spot the common defects in modern construction, including inadequate ventilation, incorrectly installed insulation, and issues with window and door installations.

Even with a ten-year structural warranty, the warranty provider may not cover cosmetic defects or issues with finishes. Having a Level 2 Survey before you complete gives you the opportunity to request that the developer addresses any issues before you move in. This is particularly valuable for properties purchased off-plan where you may not have had the opportunity to see the finished property before purchase. Our report provides documented evidence of any defects, giving you leverage when negotiating with the developer or warranty provider.

The housing stock in Innsworth reflects the broader Gloucestershire pattern, with approximately 20-25% detached properties, 30-35% semi-detached, 25-30% terraced, and 10-15% flats. While the newer developments add to the housing supply, a significant proportion of the existing stock dates from the post-war period (1945-1980), meaning many properties will benefit from our surveyors' expertise in identifying age-related defects common to mid-century construction.