RICS Level 2 Survey in M31

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the condition of the walls, roof, floors, doors, and windows, along with the plumbing, electrical systems, and damp proofing measures. Our inspectors look for signs of structural movement, timber defects, and any issues that might affect the property's value or require expensive repairs. The survey follows RICS standards, providing a clear, independent assessment that you can use when negotiating with sellers or planning renovation budgets.

Properties in M31 often feature solid-walled Victorian and Edwardian construction, which is common across Greater Manchester. These older homes can suffer from penetrating damp, rising damp, and issues with roof coverings and chimney stacks. Our surveyors know exactly what to look for in these traditional properties, checking for slipped or cracked tiles, deteriorating ridge mortar, failing flashings, and signs of timber rot or woodworm infestation. We've seen countless properties in this area where early intervention on roof issues has saved owners thousands in repair costs.

We also assess any extensions or alterations that may have been made to the property. Many older homes in the M31 area have been modified over the years, and our surveyors check whether these changes comply with current Building Regulations. We identify any potential issues with original wiring, lead pipework, or other outdated systems that might pose safety risks or require updating. From Victorian bay windows to mid-century rear extensions, we document how these additions have been constructed and whether they show signs of defects or movement.

Our inspection extends to the boundaries and external areas of the property where accessible. We look at outbuildings, garages, and boundary walls, checking their condition and whether they might be affected by any structural issues identified in the main property. In M31, where many properties have generous rear gardens or share boundary features with neighbours, this external assessment often reveals issues that buyers would otherwise miss.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, damp proofing and ventilation
• Floor structures and joinery
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and water systems
• Electrical wiring and consumer unit
• Damp and timber decay assessment
• Any visible signs of subsidence

Based on our experience surveying properties across M31, several issues appear frequently in local homes. Dampness ranks as the most common problem, particularly in solid-walled Victorian and Edwardian properties where cavity wall insulation wasn't originally installed. Our surveyors check for both rising damp and penetrating damp, assessing the condition of any existing damp proof course and recommending solutions where needed. We've seen properties where damp has been poorly treated in the past with ineffective injected damp proof courses, and we know how to spot the signs of ongoing problems.

Roof conditions often require attention in older M31 properties. Broken or missing tiles, sagging roof lines, and deteriorating ridge mortar are regularly encountered. We also inspect chimney stacks, which can suffer from cracked flaunching, damaged lead flashings, and general weathering. These issues, if left unattended, can lead to significant water ingress and costly repairs. In our experience, properties along roads like Manchester Road and Stretford Road tend to have more exposed roofs that suffer from weathering, while sheltered properties in cul-de-sacs may have different patterns of wear.

Timber defects are another priority in our surveys. Woodworm activity, wet rot, and dry rot can compromise the structural integrity of floor joists, roof timbers, and window frames. Our inspectors tap and probe timber elements where accessible, looking for signs of decay or infestation. Properties with original timber windows or doors particularly benefit from this assessment. We've found that many Victorian terraces in the Altrincham part of M31 still have their original timber windows, which while characterful, often require attention to address rot or decay in the lower sections.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older M31 homes frequently need attention. Original wiring, including knob-and-tube systems in very old properties, poses fire risks and won't meet current regulations. Similarly, galvanized steel pipes or polybutylene plumbing, common in mid-century homes, can be prone to failure. We highlight these concerns so you can budget for necessary upgrades. Many properties in the area still have their original consumer units with older fuse boxes rather than modern RCBO boards, which is something we always flag in our reports.

Structural movement and subsidence can affect properties in M31, particularly those built on ground that has seen settlement over the years. Our surveyors look for signs of cracking in walls, uneven floors, and doors or windows that don't close properly. While minor settlement cracks are common in older properties, we know how to distinguish between cosmetic issues and more serious structural concerns that might require further investigation by a structural engineer. Properties near main roads or with large trees nearby may be more susceptible to ground movement, and we take these factors into account during our inspection.