RICS Level 2 Survey in Wythenshawe M22 5

A RICS Level 2 Survey provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property, including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems. Our inspectors assess the overall condition of the property and rate each element on a scale of condition, from "good" to "urgent repair needed." The report includes clear, easy-to-understand ratings that help you prioritise any remedial work required. For properties in Wythenshawe, where a significant proportion of homes were built between 1919 and 1945 (25.1%) and 1945-1980 (45.3%), this detailed assessment is particularly valuable in identifying age-related issues.

The survey also includes a market valuation and an insurance reinstatement figure, which can be useful for mortgage purposes and ensuring you have adequate building insurance cover. Our inspectors will look specifically for issues common to the local area, such as the condition of roofs on terraced properties, damp penetration in solid-wall construction homes, and the state of electrical wiring in properties that may not have been updated since the 1980s. With clay soils underlying much of the M22 area and a moderate shrink-swell risk, our surveyors will also note any signs of movement or subsidence that could affect foundations.

We inspect both the interior and exterior of the property, including any garages, outbuildings, and boundaries that belong to the property. The report provides practical advice on any defects found and recommendations for further investigations if specialist input is required. This could include checking for timber defects, assessing the condition of the roof structure, or evaluating any extensions or modifications made to the original property. Our surveyors are familiar with the typical construction methods used in Wythenshawe, including the cavity wall construction with brick exteriors common in post-war housing and the pitched roofs covered with concrete or clay tiles.

The Level 2 survey also includes an assessment of energy efficiency related elements, which can be particularly useful given the varying standards of insulation found in properties built across different eras. Properties constructed before modern building regulations may have poor thermal efficiency, and identifying these issues early can help you plan for future improvements or negotiate the cost into your purchase agreement.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Condition ratings for key building elements
• Market valuation and reinstatement figure
• Advice on urgent and future repairs
• Assessment of energy efficiency (EPC related)
• Identification of legal issues affecting the property

Our RICS Level 2 surveys in the M22 5 area are specifically tailored to identify issues commonly found in Wythenshawe's housing stock. Given that over 45% of properties in this postcode were built between 1945 and 1980, our inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of roofs, which may be reaching the end of their expected lifespan. We check for slipped tiles, degraded felt, and any signs of leaks that could lead to more serious water damage inside the property. Many properties in the area have original roofing that has not been replaced in decades, making this a critical area of assessment.

Damp is another key concern in this area, particularly in terraced and semi-detached properties. Rising damp and penetrating damp can be prevalent in homes of this age, especially those with solid wall construction. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify signs of damp, such as staining, salt deposits, or musty odours, and will recommend appropriate remedial action. Properties with mature trees nearby are also assessed for potential subsidence or heave, given the clay soils present in the wider Manchester area that can shrink and swell with weather changes. The moderate shrink-swell risk in M22 5 means foundation movement is a consideration, particularly for properties with large vegetation close to the building.

Electrical and plumbing systems are thoroughly assessed during the survey. Properties built before the 1980s often have electrical installations that do not meet current regulations, and outdated consumer units, lack of earthing, or old wiring can pose safety risks. Similarly, lead or galvanised steel pipes, which were common in older properties, may still be present and could affect water quality. Our surveyors will note these issues and recommend further investigation by qualified electricians and plumbers. We have seen numerous properties in Wythenshawe with original electrical Consumer Units that would not pass current building regulations.

Surface water flooding is also a consideration in certain parts of M22 5, particularly in lower-lying areas and near major roads. While the overall flood risk from rivers and the sea is low, heavy rainfall can lead to surface water pooling in areas with inadequate drainage. Our surveyors will note any evidence of previous flooding or drainage issues and include this in your report. Properties near the flood plains of the River Mersey, which runs nearby, should be assessed carefully for any history of flooding.

Even if you are purchasing a brand-new property in one of the new developments in M22 5, a RICS Level 2 Survey can still provide valuable . Developments like The Depot on M22 5AW, offering 2 and 3-bedroom homes by Laurus Homes, The Avenue also on M22 5AW by Countryside Partnerships with 2, 3, and 4-bedroom homes, and Newall Green by Onward Living, all represent modern housing stock that may still benefit from a professional inspection.

While new builds come with warranties such as the National House Building Council (NHBC) cover, these warranties typically have terms and conditions that may not cover all potential issues. A Level 2 survey can identify any defects or unfinished work that may have arisen during construction or since the property was completed. Our surveyors can perform what is effectively a snagging survey, identifying issues such as incomplete finishes, poorly installed fixtures, or construction defects that the developer should rectify before completion.

Purchasing a new build is a significant investment, and having an independent assessment from our chartered surveyors ensures you are getting exactly what you paid for. We check everything from the quality of windows and doors to the proper installation of insulation and damp proofing. Any issues identified can then be raised with the developer before you complete the purchase.