RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in Leith Links

Leith Links properties represent a significant investment, with the average property price at £269,594 and many homes selling at 106.4% of their Home Report valuation. Given these prices and the competitive market, a RICS Level 2 survey provides essential protection for buyers. Our inspectors examine the property visually, assessing the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, as well as checking for signs of dampness, rot, or structural movement that could require expensive repairs. The traffic light rating system in our reports makes it easy to identify which issues need immediate attention versus those that can be monitored over time.

The housing stock in Leith Links includes a high proportion of older properties, many constructed before the First World War using traditional sandstone construction methods. These period properties, while full of character, often have hidden defects that only an experienced surveyor can identify. Common issues in local tenements include deteriorating damp proof courses, aging electrical wiring that does not meet current safety standards, and roof problems that can lead to significant repair bills. Our surveyors understand the specific construction methods used in Edinburgh's sandstone buildings, from the Craigleith stone commonly used in Georgian properties to the more ornate Victorian elevations found along Madeira Street.

For properties in the new-build developments such as Salamander Street or the planned Ocean Terminal redevelopment, a Level 2 survey still adds value by identifying any construction defects or issues with build quality that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. Even new properties can have snagging issues that need addressing before the warranty period expires. Tower Street by Barratt Homes offers modern apartments, but our inspection can identify issues like inadequate insulation, poorly fitted windows, or drainage problems that builders should rectify before completion.

Leith Links has specific environmental considerations that affect property condition. The area sits near the Water of Leith, which has a history of severe flooding, and the flood prevention scheme provides protection though some areas remain at medium risk during extreme events. Coastal proximity also means properties face potential erosion concerns and salt air penetration that can accelerate weathering of external surfaces. Our surveyors check for signs of damp related to these environmental factors and provide advice on appropriate remediation.

• Structural movement and subsidence assessment
• Damp and moisture penetration detection
• Roof condition and insulation evaluation
• Electrical and plumbing condition review
• Window and door functionality check
• Ventilation and condensation analysis

Leith Links properties, particularly the traditional tenement flats and period houses that dominate the area, often exhibit specific defects that our surveyors are trained to identify. Dampness is one of the most common issues, particularly rising damp in ground floor properties where original damp proof courses may have failed over time. The sandstone construction used in many Georgian and Victorian buildings, while durable, can suffer from penetrating damp if pointing deteriorates or render becomes damaged. Our inspectors use moisture meters and thermal imaging to identify damp areas that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

Electrical systems in older properties frequently fail to meet modern standards. Many tenements still have original wiring that may be dangerous by current regulations, and consumer units are often outdated. Our surveyors inspect the electrical installation visually and note any obvious deficiencies, recommending a qualified electrician for more detailed testing if concerns are identified. Plumbing in older properties commonly uses galvanized steel or lead pipes that corrode over time, leading to low water pressure and potential contamination risks. We check water pressure at taps and note the age and condition of visible pipework.

Roof conditions require particular attention in Leith Links, especially for tenement properties where the roof is a shared responsibility. Defective slates or tiles, inadequate insulation, and poor ventilation are frequently encountered. The cost of tenement roof repairs can be substantial, and our survey report will flag any issues that might lead to significant communal repair bills. We also inspect chimney stacks and flashings, which are common sources of leaks in period properties. For properties near the waterfront, we pay extra attention to flashings and weathering details that may have been affected by exposure to salt air.

Structural movement, while less common, does occur in Leith Links, particularly in properties built on clay soils that can shrink and swell with moisture changes. The area around Brickfield historically had solid clay deposits, which can cause ground movement. Our surveyors look for signs of structural stress including cracking to walls, doors and windows that stick or don't close properly, and uneven floors. We also check for evidence of previous repair work that might indicate past structural issues. In properties with subsidence concerns, we recommend further investigation by a structural engineer before you proceed with the purchase.