RICS Level 2 Survey in PE25 1 Skegness

Our Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and identifying defects that could impact your investment. The survey follows RICS standards and includes a detailed evaluation of the main structural elements, external joinery, roofs, walls, floors, and ceilings. We check for signs of damp, timber defects, structural movement, and other common issues found in properties throughout the Skegness area. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify problems that an untrained eye would easily miss, giving you a complete picture of the property's true condition.

Properties in PE25 1 present particular considerations for buyers. Many residential buildings in this postcode sector were constructed between 1900 and 1949, meaning they often feature older construction methods and materials that may require specialist attention. Our surveyors are familiar with the typical defects found in these older properties, including rising damp, aging roof structures, outdated electrical systems, and potential issues with foundations and sub-floor timbers. We know what to look for in properties built during these periods, from the solid walls common in pre-war construction to the various roof pitches and chimneys that characterise Victorian and Edwardian homes.

The Level 2 survey also includes an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating review, helping you understand the property's energy efficiency. Given that many older properties in Skegness and Ingoldmells may have poor insulation and outdated heating systems, this information proves valuable for estimating future energy costs and planning renovation work. We highlight any areas where energy efficiency could be improved and provide guidance on what such improvements might involve.

During our inspection, we examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space (where safe access is possible), sub-floor areas, and outbuildings. We assess the condition of windows and doors, check the plumbing and drainage systems, and evaluate the electrical installation. Our report provides condition ratings for each element, from green (satisfactory) to red (requires urgent attention), making it easy for you to prioritise any remedial work that may be needed.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and coverings
• Damp and timber condition
• Electrical systems overview
• Plumbing and drainage
• Windows, doors, and joinery

The housing stock in PE25 1 reflects the historical development of this coastal area, with properties spanning several decades of construction. Many homes in Skegness town centre and the older residential streets were built between 1900 and 1949, featuring traditional brick construction with solid walls rather than the cavity walls found in more modern properties. These solid walls can be more susceptible to penetrating damp, particularly in exposed coastal positions where wind-driven rain is a regular occurrence. Our surveyors understand how these older construction methods perform in the local climate and can identify any issues that may have arisen as a result.

In Ingoldmells and the newer residential areas, you will find a mix of property types including the popular The Shorelands development by Gleeson. This modern development offers 2, 3, and 4-bedroom semi-detached and detached houses, with prices starting from around £217,995 for a full property. Even newer properties benefit from our survey service, as we can identify any construction defects or issues that may have arisen during the build process. Newer does not always mean problem-free, and our thorough inspection provides reassurance for any buyer.

The predominant property types in PE25 1 include detached houses (which command the highest average price of £244,653), semi-detached properties, terraced houses, and flats. Terraced properties near the seafront often have unique considerations due to their proximity to the coast, including potential salt damage to external render and metalwork. Our surveyors have extensive experience inspecting all property types in this area and understand the specific issues that affect each one.

• Traditional brick solid wall construction
• Pre-war and post-war housing
• Modern housing developments
• Traditional slate and tile roofing
• Flat roof sections on extensions
• Coastal-facing exposure considerations

Our experience surveying properties throughout Skegness and Ingoldmells means we know exactly what to look for when inspecting homes in this area. One of the most common issues we identify is damp, which manifests in various forms depending on the property's construction and age. Rising damp is frequently found in older properties with solid walls, where the lack of a damp proof course or a failed original DPC allows moisture to travel up through the masonry. Penetrating damp is also common, particularly in properties exposed to prevailing winds from the North Sea, where wind-driven rain can penetrate through hairline cracks in render or through poorly maintained pointing.

Timber defects represent another significant category of issues we encounter in PE25 1 properties. Woodworm and wet rot can affect roof timbers, floor joists, and window frames, particularly in properties where damp is present. Our surveyors carefully examine all accessible timber for signs of infestation or decay, checking for woodworm holes, soft or spongy timber, and any signs of fungal growth. These issues can be expensive to treat if left unchecked, making early identification through a survey invaluable.

Roof condition is particularly important in this coastal area, where exposure to salt-laden air can accelerate the deterioration of roofing materials. We inspect roof coverings for missing or slipped tiles, damaged flashings around chimneys and valleys, and signs of past or current leakage. Flat roof sections, which are common on extensions and porches, are prone to deterioration and ponding, and we pay special attention to these areas. Many properties in Skegness also feature prominent chimneys, which require careful inspection for signs of decay, cracked brickwork, or damaged leadwork.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older properties often require careful assessment. Outdated electrical installations, including old consumer units, rubber-insulated cabling, and insufficient socket numbers, are commonly found in properties built before the 1970s. We cannot test electrical systems (this requires a registered electrician), but we can identify visual signs of obsolescence and recommend further investigation. Similarly, old galvanised steel or lead water pipes may still be present in some properties, and we note these as areas requiring potential upgrading.

• Rising damp and penetrating damp
• Woodworm and timber rot
• Roof deterioration and tile loss
• Chimney defects and flashing issues
• Outdated electrical installations
• Aging plumbing systems

The PE25 1 postcode sector encompasses Skegness and Ingoldmells, two coastal towns on the Lincolnshire coast. The local property market reflects the area's tourism-driven economy, with a significant number of self-catering holiday units and guest houses alongside residential housing. Understanding this local context helps our surveyors identify issues that might be unique to properties in this area, such as those related to holiday let usage or coastal exposure. Properties that have been used as holiday lets may show signs of more intensive wear and tear compared to standard residential properties.

Recent market data shows varied price trends across different parts of PE25 1. Properties in PE25 1ET have seen increases of around 20% compared to 2022 peaks, while some areas like PE25 1HG have experienced corrections of over 20% from their 2023 highs. The overall PE25 district shows prices broadly similar to last year, sitting around 1% below the 2022 peak of £197,174. This market context makes a thorough survey even more valuable, helping you understand exactly what you are paying for in a market where property values can vary significantly between streets.

Flood risk deserves particular attention for buyers in PE25 1. While current flood warnings are not in place for the immediate area, the proximity to the North Sea means coastal flooding remains a long-term consideration. Properties in low-lying areas or those with basements may face elevated flood risk, and our surveyors will note any signs of previous water ingress or flood damage during the inspection. We also assess the property's vulnerability to surface water flooding and make appropriate recommendations in our report.

• Coastal exposure and salt erosion
• Flood risk assessment
• Holiday let condition standards
• Older property structural concerns
• Foundation and ground movement indicators