RICS Level 2 Home Survey Oswestry

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's visible and accessible elements. We assess the overall condition of the walls, roof, windows, doors, and foundations, looking for signs of structural movement, damp penetration, or deterioration. Our inspectors examine the roof structure, including tiles, flashing, and chimneys, while also checking the condition of gutters, downpipes, and drainage systems that can cause problems if neglected.

In Oswestry, where a significant proportion of properties date from the Victorian and Edwardian periods, we pay particular attention to common issues found in older construction. This includes checking for rising damp in solid wall constructions, assessing the condition of original timber-framed elements, and evaluating outdated electrical and plumbing systems that often require updating. The survey also includes a thorough inspection of any garages, outbuildings, or extensions included in the property.

Our inspectors use a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each area inspected. Green indicates no issues requiring attention, amber highlights defects that need repairing but aren't urgent, and red flags issues that are serious or require immediate attention. This straightforward approach helps you understand exactly what you're buying and prioritise any renovation work needed.

We also assess the property's boundaries, checking walls, fences, and gates, as well as any shared areas or access rights that might affect your ownership. In Oswestry, where many properties have large gardens extending to rear lanes, boundary issues can be particularly important.

• Wall and foundation condition
• Roof, tiles and chimneys
• Windows and doors
• Damp and timber defects
• Plumbing and electrical visible evidence
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Oswestry has seen significant new development activity in recent years, with multiple developments bringing modern properties to the market. The Cambrian Fields development by Pickstock Homes offers contemporary homes with sustainable features including solar panels, EV charging points, and smart home technology. Similarly, The Mulberries in Dudleston Heath provides a range of properties from two-bedroom bungalows to four-bedroom detached homes priced from £250,000 to £600,000.

Even for new build properties, a RICS Level 2 survey provides valuable reassurance. While major structural defects are less likely in newly constructed homes, our inspectors can identify issues with finishings, insulation, or building regulation compliance that may not be apparent to the untrained eye. For the 31 homes at Park Crescent in Park Hall, developed by Chartland Homes, a Level 2 survey ensures your investment meets the expected standards.

New builds in the Oswestry area come with a builder's warranty, typically lasting 10 years, but this doesn't cover all potential issues. Our independent survey provides you with professional validation of the property's condition, giving you confidence that your new home is built to the expected quality. Any defects identified can often be addressed under the builder's snagging process, but you need to know what to look for.

Other notable developments in the area include Ifton Green in St. Martins, a Cornovii Homes project completed in 2024 on a former school site, and Whittington where Shingler Homes is building 61 new homes in various styles. Even with new build warranties, having an independent survey protects your investment.

Oswestry's older housing stock presents several common issues that our surveyors regularly identify. Properties built before 1919, which make up a significant portion of the town's Victorian and Edwardian housing, often lack modern damp-proof courses, making them susceptible to rising damp. The original timber-framed construction methods used in many historic buildings require careful inspection for signs of rot, woodworm, or structural movement that could indicate more serious problems.

Roof conditions are a frequent finding in Oswestry surveys, with slipped tiles, deteriorated felt, and damaged leadwork commonly identified, particularly on period properties. The town's exposure to weather from the west means roofs take a battering, and ageing roof coverings often reach the end of their serviceable life. Our inspectors carefully assess the pitch, covering, and flashings to identify any current or potential issues.

Surface water flooding represents a known risk in parts of Oswestry, particularly in areas with higher ground to the west flowing to lower ground in the east. While the town centre generally sits in Flood Zone 1, certain developments and older properties may have histories of flooding that aren't immediately obvious. Our survey includes an assessment of flood risk based on our visual inspection and any readily available local knowledge.

The village of Morda, just south of Oswestry, has properties in Flood Zones 2 and 3 of the River Morda, affecting areas near Morda Bank, Weston Lane, and Weston Road. If you're considering a property in this area, our survey will flag any visible signs of previous flooding and advise on appropriate investigations.

• Rising damp in solid wall properties
• Roof deterioration and tile slip
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Structural movement in older buildings
• Outdated electrical installations
• Surface water flood risk

Our RICS Level 2 survey services extend across Oswestry and the surrounding Shropshire border region. We survey properties throughout the SY11 postcode area, covering the town centre and surrounding villages. Whether your property is in the heart of Oswestry or in one of the nearby villages such as Whittington, Gobowen, or St. Martins, our experienced surveyors can attend and provide a comprehensive assessment.

The Oswestry area encompasses a mix of property types from modern family homes to historic cottages, each requiring a considered approach to inspection. Our local knowledge means we understand the differences between properties in various parts of the town and can tailor our inspection accordingly. From properties near the historic castle remains to new builds at developments like Ifton Green, we have the expertise to provide thorough assessments.

We also cover the wider area including West Felton, Ruyton-XI-Towns, Baschurch, Ellesmere, and even across the border into parts of Wales. No matter where your property is located, our team brings the same level of expertise and attention to detail.