RICS Level 2 Survey in M9 5 Manchester

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible parts of the property, examining the main structural elements including walls, roofs, foundations, and floors. Our inspectors assess the condition of windows and doors, check the integrity of the building's fabric, and evaluate the overall condition of the property. In M9 5, where many properties were built during the post-war period through to the 1970s, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues affecting this era of construction, including the condition of original brickwork, roof coverings, and load-bearing elements. We examine properties from both inside and out, gaining access to the roof space where safe and practical to do so.

The survey includes a detailed assessment of key building systems such as plumbing, electrical installations, and heating systems. We examine the condition of visible pipework, check the consumer unit and wiring where accessible, and assess the heating system. For properties in M9 5 that may have older electrical installations, our surveyors identify any potential safety concerns and recommend further investigation by qualified electricians where necessary. The report also covers external elements including gutters, drainpipes, and the condition of any outbuildings or boundaries. We note the condition of fences, gates, and retaining walls that form part of the property boundaries.

Our surveyors also assess the property for signs of damp, rot, and timber decay, which can be particularly problematic in older Manchester properties. We use visual inspection techniques to identify areas of concern, testing walls with moisture meters where appropriate and checking for signs of penetrating damp or rising damp. In ground floor properties or those with cellars, we pay particular attention to ventilation and drainage around the foundations. Any areas that show evidence of damp staining, mould growth, or wood decay are documented in detail within our report, with recommendations for further investigation or remediation by specialists.

• Walls and structural frame
• Roof structure and coverings
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and water systems
• Electrical installations
• Damp and rot assessment
• Garages and outbuildings
• Boundaries and access

The M9 5 postcode encompasses areas including Harpurhey and Moston, where housing stock spans several decades of construction. Terraced properties in this area, which form a significant proportion of the housing stock, were often built using traditional methods with solid brick walls and pitched roofs. While these properties are generally sound, they can suffer from issues related to age, including deteriorating mortar joints, weathered roof coverings, and the effects of settlement over time. Our Level 2 survey identifies these issues and provides practical recommendations for addressing them. We commonly find that roof tiles in this area have become brittle with age, requiring replacement or repair to prevent water ingress.

Semi-detached properties in M9 5, particularly those built during the mid-20th century, may present specific considerations such as shared boundary walls and combined drainage systems. These shared elements can sometimes be sources of dispute or require coordinated maintenance. Our surveyors examine these shared aspects carefully, documenting their condition and flagging any concerns that might require attention. With the average semi-detached property in M9 5 selling for around £210,000, understanding the full condition of these shared elements is crucial for any prospective buyer. We check the condition of shared walls, looking for signs of movement or damage that could indicate issues with the neighbouring property.

Many properties in this area will have had various alterations and improvements over the years, from window replacements to kitchen and bathroom refits. While these modifications can improve a property's appeal and functionality, they may also introduce defects or deviate from building regulations. Our survey includes an assessment of these alterations, checking where possible whether appropriate permissions were obtained and identifying any work that might require further investigation or regularisation. We frequently encounter uPVC window installations in properties that originally had timber sash windows, and we note the condition of these replacements alongside any evidence of inadequate installation that could lead to draughts or water penetration.

Properties in the M9 5 area may also have been subject to extensions or conversions over the years, particularly roof space conversions that add valuable bedroom space. Our surveyors examine any such modifications to assess their structural integrity and build quality. We check for adequate insulation and ventilation in converted spaces, as these are common areas where defects can arise. If we identify any work that appears to have been carried out without appropriate building regulations approval, we will flag this in our report so you can investigate further before completing your purchase.

Your RICS Level 2 report uses the RICS traffic light system to clearly indicate the condition of each element inspected. Green indicates no significant issues requiring attention, amber highlights defects that require attention but are not serious, and red flags issues that are serious or urgent. This straightforward system helps you quickly identify the most important findings while the detailed narrative sections explain each issue in full. Each element of the property receives one of these ratings, giving you a complete overview of the property's condition at a glance. The report covers everything from the main structure down to smaller details like door handles and window catches.

The report includes a market valuation based on our analysis of the M9 5 property market and recent sales data. We also provide an insurance rebuild cost, which is essential information for your buildings insurance provider. These valuations are based on comparable sales data from the local area, giving you an accurate picture of the property's worth in the current market. With terraced properties in M9 5 selling for around £137,000 and semi-detached homes reaching £210,000, having this independent valuation protects you from overpaying. Our valuation figure is based on analysis of sold price data for similar properties in the immediate vicinity.

Each report includes clear recommendations for any necessary repairs or further investigations. We prioritise issues based on their urgency, distinguishing between defects that require immediate attention and those that can be scheduled for future maintenance. For properties in M9 5, common recommendations might include repointing of brickwork, roof covering repairs, or electrical inspections. We provide estimated costs where possible, helping you budget for any work that may be needed after your purchase. Where we identify issues requiring specialist attention, we will recommend engaging appropriately qualified professionals such as structural engineers, damp specialists, or NICEIC registered electricians.