RICS Level 2 Survey in Bicester (OX26)

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying any significant defects or issues that could affect its value or safety. Our inspectors examine the roof structure, walls, windows, doors, damp levels, and essential services such as plumbing and electrical systems. We assess the condition of the property on a traffic-light rating system, making it easy for you to understand which issues require immediate attention and which are minor matters that can be addressed over time. This clear rating system helps you prioritise the repairs and improvements you may need to consider after moving in.

In Bicester's OX26 area, we frequently encounter properties built with various construction methods, from traditional brick-built homes to more modern developments. Our surveyors are familiar with the common issues affecting properties in this region, including those related to clay soils and the mix of housing ages found throughout the town. We provide clear, jargon-free reports that explain our findings in plain English, helping you make informed decisions about your potential purchase. Many properties in the area were built before modern building regulations came into effect, and our experience helps us identify the issues that commonly affect these older homes.

The survey includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost estimate, giving you a complete picture of the property's financial standing. If we identify any serious defects, we flag these prominently so you can negotiate with the seller or seek specialist advice before committing to the purchase. Our goal is to ensure you have all the information you need to proceed with your property transaction with complete confidence. The valuation element is particularly useful when arranging your mortgage, as lenders often require confirmation that the property provides adequate security for the loan amount.

The Level 2 Survey covers the roof structure and covering, including any chimneys and flat roof areas. We inspect the walls for signs of cracking, movement, or deterioration, and assess the damp proof course and any signs of rising or penetrating damp. Windows, doors, and joinery are checked for operation and condition, and we look at the plumbing system including visible pipework, tanks, and fixtures. The electrical installation is visually inspected where accessible, and we assess any outside spaces including boundaries, access routes, and parking facilities.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall condition and structural integrity
• Damp and timber assessment
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical overview
• Boundary and outside space
• Parking and access facilities

Bicester sits on Oxford Clay geology, which presents specific challenges for property owners and buyers. Clay soils are prone to shrink-swell movement during periods of wet and dry weather, which can cause foundations to shift and lead to structural movement in properties. Our inspectors are trained to look for signs of subsidence, cracking, and other issues that may indicate foundation problems related to clay soil. We examine walls, floors, and door frames for evidence of movement, helping you identify properties that may require further structural investigation. This is particularly important for older properties in areas like the town centre and established residential streets where foundations may not meet modern standards.

The town features a mix of housing stock, including many properties built before modern building regulations came into effect. Older homes, particularly those constructed before the 1970s, may have issues with outdated electrical wiring, poor insulation, and aging roof structures. Our surveyors check the condition of fuse boxes, wiring in accessible areas, and the overall safety of electrical installations. We also assess roof coverings, looking for slipped tiles, deteriorated flashing, and signs of past or current leaks that could lead to internal damage. These issues are common in properties throughout Bicester's older residential areas and can be expensive to put right if not identified before purchase.

Many properties in Bicester have been modernised over the years, and our surveyors pay attention to the quality of these alterations. Poorly executed DIY improvements can create problems that are not immediately visible, such as hidden damp issues or structural alterations that compromise the building's integrity. We provide honest assessments of any renovation work we encounter, flagging areas where professional certification may be required or where work appears to have been carried out without appropriate building control approval. This is particularly relevant in Bicester where many older properties have been updated over the decades, sometimes to a high standard and sometimes less so.

Bicester also has a number of properties in conservation areas and some listed buildings, particularly in the town centre. These properties require special consideration as they may have restrictions on alterations and maintenance. Our surveyors understand the additional factors to consider when surveying historic properties and can advise whether a more detailed Level 3 Survey might be appropriate. We will flag any conservation area or listed building considerations in your report so you are aware of any implications for your intended use of the property.

• Subsidence and foundation movement
• Roof condition and potential leaks
• Rising and penetrating damp
• Electrical safety and wiring age
• Timber decay and woodworm
• Window and door operation
• Boundary and drainage issues