RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in L39 0

Our chartered surveyors conduct a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. This includes the roof structure, walls, floors, ceilings, doors and windows, as well as the condition of bathrooms and kitchens. We examine the exterior of the building, looking for signs of structural movement, deterioration, or water damage that could indicate underlying problems. Every inspection follows the RICS Level 2 protocol strictly, ensuring nothing is missed.

During the survey, we assess the condition of key building elements including the roof covering and its expected remaining lifespan, the condition of load-bearing walls and foundations where visible, the state of plumbing and drainage systems, and the condition of windows and doors. We also check for any obvious signs of damp or rot, which can be particularly problematic in older properties across the Ormskirk area where traditional construction methods were used. Our surveyors are trained to spot the subtle signs that indicate more serious issues hiding behind walls or in hidden voids.

The survey report provides a clear red, amber or green rating system for each element checked, making it easy to understand which issues require urgent attention and which are minor matters. We include clear photographs and detailed descriptions of any defects found, along with our assessment of how these might affect the property's value or require future maintenance investment. Each report also includes our professional opinion on the property's overall condition and suitability for your intended use.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, ceilings and floors
• Windows and doors
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and drainage
• Electrical visible elements
• Garage and outbuildings
• External areas

Based on our experience surveying properties across Bickerstaffe, Aughton and the surrounding Ormskirk area, we regularly encounter several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp penetration is one of the most common problems we identify, particularly in older properties built with solid walls rather than modern cavity wall construction. The traditional brickwork found in many period homes in this area can allow moisture to migrate through, especially where pointing has deteriorated over decades of exposure to the Lancashire climate.

Roof condition is another frequent area of concern. Many properties in the L39 0 area feature older slate or tile roofs that are approaching or have exceeded their expected lifespan. We often find missing or slipped tiles, damaged flashing around chimneys, and deteriorating felt underlay that can lead to water ingress. For properties in the older village centres of Bickerstaffe and Aughton, roof surveys frequently reveal issues with stone slate roofing that requires specialist repair due to the age and rarity of replacement materials.

Structural movement and subsidence indicators are also something we look for carefully in every inspection. Properties built on clay-rich soils, which are common throughout this part of West Lancashire, can be susceptible to shrink-swell movement as soil moisture levels change with the seasons. Our surveyors are trained to identify the tell-tale signs of this type of movement, including diagonal cracking in brickwork, doors and windows that stick or don't close properly, and uneven floors that may indicate foundation issues.

Electrical safety is another area where we frequently flag concerns in older properties. Many homes in the L39 0 area, particularly those built before the 1990s, still have original fuse boards and wiring that may not meet current regulations. While we cannot conduct a full electrical inspection, we do visually assess the condition of visible electrical installations and will recommend a registered electrician's inspection where we have concerns about safety or compliance.

• Damp and condensation issues
• Roof deterioration and leaks
• Structural movement cracks
• Outdated electrical installations
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Plumbing and drainage defects
• Window and door operational issues
• Chimney and flashing defects

The L39 0 postcode sector encompasses parts of Bickerstaffe and Aughton, villages with a mix of traditional and newer housing stock. The wider L39 district, centred on Ormskirk, shows diverse property types from period terraced houses in the town centre to modern detached homes in surrounding developments. Recent transaction data shows 30 property sales in the L39 0 sector over the past 24 months, with prices showing a slight decline of 0.7% in the last year. Despite this modest correction, the market remains active with sub-postcodes like L39 0HE showing strong growth of 7% compared to 2023.

Properties in this area, particularly those in the older village centres of Bickerstaffe and Aughton, may have been built using traditional methods common in West Lancashire. This includes handmade brick construction and stone slate roofing, as seen in historic buildings like the Church of St. Mary in the wider area. Such properties can present specific challenges including age-related wear to roofing materials, potential damp issues in solid-wall construction, and the need for ongoing maintenance of traditional features. Understanding these construction methods helps our surveyors know exactly what to look for during each inspection.

The wider West Lancashire area, which includes L39 0, has 28 conservation areas and over 600 listed buildings. While our research didn't identify specific listed buildings within the L39 0 sector, properties in neighbouring areas may be affected by conservation requirements. The Granville Park Conservation Area in nearby Aughton has an Article 4 Direction, restricting certain permitted development rights. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying properties that may require specialist consideration and will flag any relevant issues in your report.

One consideration for properties in this region is the potential for clay-rich soils, which can cause shrink-swell movement. This is the most damaging geohazard in Britain and can lead to subsidence or heave depending on moisture conditions. During periods of drought, clay soils can shrink significantly, causing foundations to move and resulting in characteristic diagonal cracking in brickwork. Our inspectors look for signs of structural movement during every survey and will report any concerns about the building's foundation conditions, recommending further investigation by a structural engineer where necessary.

• Mix of period and modern properties
• Traditional brick and slate construction
• Potential clay soil subsidence risk
• Nearby conservation areas (West Lancashire)
• Varied property sizes and values
• Ongoing new development in district

When you book a RICS Level 2 survey with Homemove, you're partnering with qualified professionals who understand the local property market in L39 0 and the wider Ormskirk area. Our surveyors bring extensive experience inspecting properties across this region and understand the specific construction methods and common issues found in local housing stock. We know which buildings are likely to have which types of defects based on their age, construction type, and location.

We believe every property buyer deserves clear, independent information about their potential new home. That's why our reports are designed to be easily understood, with plain English explanations and clear recommendations. buying a terraced property in L39 0EL priced around £162,500 or a detached family home in L39 0HL, we provide the same thorough inspection and detailed reporting. Our goal is to give you the information you need to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Every surveyor in our network is RICS registered, meaning they adhere to strict professional standards and follow the latest guidance issued by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. This gives you assurance that your survey will be conducted professionally and your report will meet the high standards expected by lenders, solicitors, and property professionals throughout the UK. We're proud to maintain these standards for every survey we undertake in the L39 0 area.