RICS Level 2 Survey in NE2 (Jesmond)

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's condition, identifying any defects or issues that could affect its value or require future maintenance. The survey follows RICS standards and includes a detailed assessment of all accessible areas of the property, from the roof down to the foundations. Our inspectors examine the external walls, roof structure, windows and doors, plumbing and electrical systems, and interior fixtures and fittings. For properties in NE2, this is particularly valuable given the age of much of the housing stock in areas like Jesmond where many homes were constructed between 1860 and 1910.

The Level 2 survey uses a clear traffic light rating system to highlight defects based on their severity. Red rated issues are those requiring urgent attention or significant repair, amber indicates items that will need attention eventually, and green confirms that specific areas are in satisfactory condition. Each survey includes practical advice on any further investigations or specialist reports that may be needed, particularly for older properties where our surveyors might recommend a structural engineer or damp and timber specialist to assess specific concerns. This rating system makes it easy for you to prioritise which issues need immediate attention versus those that can wait.

In the NE2 area, our surveyors frequently identify issues related to the age of the properties, including original electrical systems that no longer meet current regulations, aging roof coverings, and signs of past movement in solid wall constructions. Many properties in this postcode were built with solid brick walls rather than modern cavity wall construction, which can lead to different damp issues than you'd find in newer homes. The report also includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost estimate, giving you a complete picture of the property's worth and any financial implications of the defects found.

Our surveyors also check for any signs of historical mining activity in the wider Newcastle area, which can affect ground stability. While NE2 itself may not have active mining, the legacy of past coal mining in the region means our surveyors are particularly vigilant for any signs of subsidence or ground movement that could indicate underlying issues. This local knowledge is exactly what you get when you choose surveyors who know the area intimately.

• Roof and rainwater goods
• Walls, ceilings, and floors
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Damp and timber condition
• Garage and outbuildings

Given the age of much of the housing stock in NE2, our surveyors frequently encounter specific issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems are particularly common in older properties with solid walls, where moisture can penetrate more easily than in modern cavity wall constructions. Our inspectors check for rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation issues, providing practical advice on remediation. In Jesmond's older terraces and semis, we often find that original damp proof courses are no longer effective or may have been breached over the years. The proximity to the Ouseburn watercourse in some parts of NE2 can also contribute to damp issues in lower ground floor properties.

Roof condition is another area where we frequently identify issues in NE2 properties. Many period properties in this area have original slate or tile roofs that, while often still structurally sound, may have slipped tiles, damaged flashing, or deteriorated pointing to the ridge tiles. Our surveyors examine the roof from both inside the loft space and from ground level, identifying any areas of concern that could lead to leaks or future problems. Gutters and downpipes in older properties are also prone to blockages and damage, which our inspectors assess carefully, particularly given the mature trees that line many streets in Jesmond.

Electrical systems in older NE2 properties often require attention. Many homes in this area still have original wiring from when they were built, which may not meet current electrical safety standards. Our surveyors will note the age and condition of the consumer unit, wiring visible in accessible areas, and any obvious safety concerns. Similarly, plumbing in older properties may use outdated materials that could benefit from upgrading. We provide clear guidance on whether immediate electrical or plumbing work is recommended based on our findings.

Properties in NE2 can also be affected by the historical mining activity in the wider Newcastle area. While not all properties will be affected, our surveyors are trained to look for signs of ground movement or subsidence that could indicate issues with shallow mine workings beneath a property. If we identify any concerns, we'll recommend a structural engineer to conduct a more detailed assessment before you proceed with your purchase.