RICS Level 2 Survey in New Quay

Our RICS Level 2 Survey in New Quay covers everything from the roof down to the foundations. We inspect the exterior walls, looking for cracks, render damage, and signs of movement that could indicate structural concerns. Given the age of many properties in this area, we pay particular attention to the condition of stonework, the integrity of pointing, and any evidence of damp penetration that is common in older coastal buildings. Our surveyors will also examine windows, doors, and joinery, as timber sash windows found in many Victorian and Edwardian properties often require maintenance or repair.

The roof is another critical area we inspect thoroughly. Many New Quay properties feature traditional Welsh slate roofs that, while durable, can suffer from slipped slates, perished pointing, and deteriorating flashings around chimneys. Our inspectors will assess the roof's overall condition, check for signs of leakage, and advise on any repairs needed to keep the property watertight. We also inspect gutters, downpipes, and drainage systems, as blocked or damaged drainage can lead to water ingress and damp problems that are particularly problematic in coastal locations.

Inside the property, we check all accessible areas including walls, ceilings, floors, and staircases. We look for signs of damp using moisture meters and thermal imaging where appropriate, identify any timber defects such as rot or woodworm, and assess the condition of electrical and plumbing installations. Many older properties in New Quay still have original wiring and plumbing that does not meet current regulations, and our report will highlight any concerns that should be addressed by qualified electricians and plumbers before you move in.

Our surveyors pay special attention to the signs of timber decay that frequently affects properties in this area. Wet rot and dry rot can compromise structural timbers, particularly in properties where damp has been allowed to penetrate over many years. We examine floor joists, ceiling timbers, and roof rafters for any signs of decay, insect activity, or previous repairs that may indicate ongoing problems. Given the humid coastal climate, ventilation is also a key concern, and we assess whether existing ventilation measures are adequate to prevent condensation and associated timber problems.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall conditions and damp assessment
• Timber floors and joists
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Windows and doors
• Drainage and gutters
• Chimney and flashing condition
• Insulation and energy efficiency

New Quay's housing stock is remarkably diverse, ranging from traditional fishermen's cottages along the harbour to Victorian townhouses on Marine Terrace and Rock Street, and modern developments on the outskirts of the town. The historic core, which falls within the Conservation Area, contains many listed buildings that require special consideration for maintenance and renovation. Understanding the construction methods used in these properties is essential for any buyer, as traditional solid wall construction with lime mortar pointing requires different care compared to modern cavity wall builds.

Many properties in New Quay were built before modern building regulations were introduced, meaning they may lack features that we now consider standard. Solid walls without cavity insulation, single-glazed windows, and original electrical systems are common in older homes. While these features add to the character of the property, they can also mean higher energy costs and the need for updating to meet current safety standards. Our RICS Level 2 Survey will assess the energy efficiency of the property and highlight areas where improvements could be made, giving you a realistic picture of ongoing costs.

The local geology around New Quay consists primarily of Silurian and Ordovician mudstones and sandstones, with generally low shrink-swell potential in the bedrock. However, superficial deposits of clay or till in some areas could introduce localized moderate shrink-swell risk. Our surveyors are familiar with these ground conditions and will look for any signs of movement or subsidence that might indicate issues with foundations or ground stability. Properties on or near the cliffs may also be affected by coastal erosion, which is an important consideration for any buyer looking at seafront properties.

The tourism economy significantly influences the New Quay housing market, with many properties used as holiday lets or second homes. This drives demand for properties in desirable locations, particularly those with sea views or proximity to the harbour. Our surveyors understand that if you are purchasing a property as a holiday let, there may be additional considerations around building regulations for commercial rental properties, and we can highlight relevant issues in our report.

• Pre-1919 period properties
• Victorian and Edwardian homes
• Conservation Area properties
• Listed buildings
• Modern developments
• Traditional stone cottages

New Quay's coastal location brings specific environmental considerations that every buyer should be aware of. The town faces risks from coastal flooding, particularly during high tides and storm surges, and properties near the Afon Cerdin river may also be at risk from fluvial flooding. Surface water flooding can occur in areas with poor drainage during heavy rainfall. Our surveyors will note any signs of previous flooding or water damage and advise on the property's flood risk based on our observations and available information. We check for water marks, damp staining, and other evidence that may indicate past flooding events.

Properties close to the cliff edge or seafront may also be affected by coastal erosion over time. While this is not an immediate concern for most properties, it is worth considering the long-term implications, particularly if you are planning to keep the property for many years. Our surveyors will look for any signs of erosion or instability and include relevant observations in your report. We can also recommend further specialist investigations if needed, such as a geotechnical survey, for properties in high-risk areas. Properties along Towyn Road and the seafront promenade are particularly worth scrutinising for any signs of coastal impact.

Energy efficiency is another important consideration, especially given the age of many properties in New Quay. Older properties with solid walls, single glazing, and outdated heating systems can be expensive to heat and may have high energy costs. Our Level 2 Survey includes a basic assessment of the property's energy efficiency, highlighting areas where improvements could be made to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on fuel bills. With rising energy costs, this information is invaluable for budgeting your ongoing household expenses. We can advise on measures such as upgrading insulation, replacing single-glazed windows, and improving heating efficiency.