RICS Level 2 Survey in Long Eaton NG10 2

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's condition, covering all major elements from the roof down to the foundations. We assess the structural integrity of walls, floors, and ceilings, examine the condition of the roof including tiles, flashing, and chimneys, and check for signs of damp, rot, or timber defects. Our inspectors also evaluate the condition of windows, doors, and joinery, as well as the plumbing and electrical systems where accessible.

In the NG10 2 area, where over 72% of properties were built before 1980, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in older housing stock. This includes checking original damp-proof courses that may have failed over time, assessing the condition of older roofs that may be nearing the end of their lifespan, and identifying any potential subsidence risks related to the local clay geology. We also examine properties for signs of past DIY work or alterations that may not meet current building regulations, which is particularly important in older properties where previous owners may have carried out work without proper permissions.

The survey includes a clear traffic light rating system highlighting defects that are either serious, requiring urgent attention, or that will need future maintenance. We provide practical advice on remediation options and estimated costs, helping you budget for any repairs or improvements needed after purchase. Our detailed report gives you the confidence to proceed with your purchase or negotiate a fair price based on the property's true condition.

For properties in Long Eaton specifically, we assess factors that are unique to the local environment. This includes checking for signs of past flooding from the River Erewash or Erewash Canal, evaluating the impact of clay soils on foundations, and identifying any potential issues with properties that have mature trees nearby. Our report will clearly flag any concerns we find and provide specific recommendations for further investigation if needed.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof, chimneys, and gutters
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Timber defects and rot
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible elements
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Energy efficiency considerations

The NG10 2 property market presents specific challenges that make a RICS Level 2 survey particularly valuable. With 44.2% of properties built between 1945 and 1980, many homes in this area are approaching or have passed the 50-year mark where certain building elements start to require attention. Roof coverings, damp-proof courses, and drainage systems all have finite lifespans, and our surveyors know exactly what to look for when assessing these elements in properties of this age.

The local geology presents another important consideration for buyers. Long Eaton sits on Mercia Mudstone, a clay-based bedrock that expands when wet and contracts during dry periods. This shrink-swell behaviour can affect foundations, particularly where properties have trees nearby or where drainage is inadequate. Our inspectors examine walls, floors, and external areas for signs of movement, cracking, or subsidence that may be related to these ground conditions. Where we identify potential concerns, we recommend further investigation by a structural engineer.

Flood risk is a genuine consideration for some properties in NG10 2, particularly those close to the River Erewash and Erewash Canal which run through parts of Long Eaton. Areas near the canal and river floodplain have medium to high risk of surface water flooding, which can cause significant damage to ground floor rooms and affect foundations. Our survey includes assessment of flood resilience measures, past flooding evidence, and the general drainage condition of the property and its surroundings.

Many properties in Long Eaton will also have outdated electrical systems and plumbing that do not meet current regulations. Properties built before the 1980s often have:

• Electrical systems with outdated wiring (often not meeting current Part P regulations)
• Plumbing using galvanised steel or lead pipes
• Lack of adequate earthing or RCD protection
• Heating systems that are inefficient or nearing end of life

Properties in NG10 2 predominantly feature brick construction, with many homes built using traditional cavity wall methods for properties constructed from the 1920s onwards, while older properties may have solid walls. The local housing stock shows a diverse mix of property ages, with 13.5% built pre-1919, 14.5% constructed between 1919-1945, 44.2% built between 1945-1980, and 27.8% constructed post-1980. This age profile means our surveyors frequently encounter issues common to each era of construction, from Victorian solid wall properties to modern new builds.

The underlying geology of Long Eaton includes Mercia Mudstone, a clay-based bedrock known for its shrink-swell potential when wet and dry cycles occur. This can lead to ground movement affecting foundations, particularly for properties with trees nearby or inadequate drainage. Our inspectors assess walls, floors, and external areas for signs of subsidence, heave, or structural movement that may be related to these ground conditions. Where we identify potential concerns, we recommend further investigation by a structural engineer.

Flood risk is another important consideration for properties in NG10 2, particularly those close to the River Erewash and Erewash Canal which run through parts of Long Eaton. Some areas have medium to high risk of surface water flooding, which can cause significant damage to ground floor rooms and foundations. Our survey includes assessment of flood resilience measures, past flooding evidence, and the general drainage condition of the property and its surroundings.

Properties built between the 1950s and 1990s in the NG10 2 area may contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), which were commonly used in construction during this period. Our surveyors are trained to identify potential ACMs in items such as textured coatings (artex), soffit boards, pipe insulation, and floor tiles. While we don't test for asbestos, we will flag suspected materials and recommend a specialist asbestos survey if needed.