RICS Level 2 Survey in L17 7 Aigburth

The RICS Level 2 survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, is designed for properties in reasonable condition. It provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, giving you a clear picture of its current state. Our surveyors examine the main structural elements, including the roof structure, walls, foundations, and floors, looking for signs of defect, decay, or damage that might not be visible during a normal viewing. We cannot move furniture or lift carpets, but we inspect everything that is visible and accessible.

In the L17 7 area, where many properties are Victorian or Edwardian in origin, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in period properties. These include damp penetration through solid walls, deterioration of original timber windows, and the condition of aging roof coverings. We also check for any signs of structural movement or subsidence, which can be a concern in some areas of Liverpool where ground conditions vary. The older terraced houses along streets like Aigburth Road and Mersey Road often feature traditional construction methods that require experienced inspection.

The survey includes assessment of all major building services, including electrical installations, gas pipework, and plumbing. We cannot remove obstructions or dismantle fitted furniture, but we do inspect everything that is visible and accessible. Our report will clearly flag any areas where we were unable to inspect and explain the implications. For example, if we cannot access the loft space due to a locked hatch or stored belongings, we will note this and explain what this means for your understanding of the property's condition.

Our inspection covers the exterior of the property in detail, including the roof, chimneys, walls, windows, and doors. We check the condition of pointing and render, look for signs of movement or cracking, and assess the condition of gutters and drainage. In Aigburth, where many properties have original brickwork, we pay close attention to the state of the mortar joints and any signs of salt efflorescence that might indicate ongoing damp issues.

• Roof, chimneys, and loft spaces
• Walls, windows, and doors
• Floors, ceilings, and stairs
• Damp proof course and ventilation
• Electrical and gas services
• Outbuildings and garages

Your RICS Level 2 report uses a clear traffic light rating system to highlight the condition of different areas. Red indicates urgent issues that require immediate attention, such as significant structural defects or safety hazards. Amber ratings denote defects that will need attention in the future but are not immediately critical. Green indicates that the element is in satisfactory condition with no significant issues noted. This system makes it easy to quickly identify the most important issues and prioritise any remedial work.

In addition to condition ratings, the report includes a market valuation and estimated rebuilding cost for insurance purposes. This information is particularly valuable when completing your mortgage application, as lenders require confirmation that the property provides adequate security for the loan amount. Our valuation is based on current market data for the L17 7 area and reflects the actual selling prices of similar properties in the neighbourhood. We use recent sales data from the local market to ensure accuracy.

The report also addresses legal considerations that may affect the property. While we are not conveyancing solicitors, we flag any obvious issues that you should raise with your legal advisor, such as potential boundary disputes, missing planning permissions for extensions, or concerns about shared facilities with neighbouring properties. This helps ensure you have all the information needed before completing your purchase. In Aigburth, where many properties have been extended over the years, checking for proper planning permissions is particularly important.

One of the key benefits of the Level 2 survey is that it provides you with negotiation leverage. If significant defects are identified, you can use the report to negotiate with the seller either to reduce the purchase price or to request that specific repairs be carried out before completion. Given the average property price in L17 7 of £284,845, even a small reduction in price based on survey findings can represent a substantial saving.