RICS Level 2 Survey in PO13 0

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of your property. The surveyor examines the roof structure, walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, along with any visible plumbing, electrical installations, and damp proofing measures. For properties in PO13 0, this is particularly valuable given the mix of construction types found in the area, from historic buildings with locally made bricks and stone to post-war Easiform concrete properties and modern developments. We assess each element systematically, documenting condition and identifying any defects that might affect your decision to proceed with the purchase or require negotiation with the seller.

The report assigns condition ratings to each element inspected: Category 1 indicates no repair currently needed, Category 2 advises urgent repairs or defects requiring attention, and Category 3 highlights serious issues that require immediate expert investigation. This clear rating system helps prioritisation of any remediation work after your purchase. Our surveyors are familiar with the specific challenges presented by Gosport properties, including coastal exposure, potential flood risk from tidal sources, and the shrink-swell behaviour of local clay-rich soils. When we identify a Category 2 or 3 issue, we provide specific advice on what further investigation is needed and who should carry it out.

We inspect properties up to 2,500 square feet and typically those in reasonable condition. For larger properties, heavily modified homes, or buildings of non-traditional construction, we may recommend a RICS Level 3 Building Survey instead. The Level 2 report also includes a market value reinstatement figure for insurance purposes and can incorporate an optional valuation if required for your mortgage arrangement. If you're purchasing a property in one of the local conservation areas, such as the Anglesey and Alverstoke Conservation Area or the Stokes Bay Conservation Area designated in 2022, we can advise on any additional considerations that may apply.

The local geology of soft sands and clays underlying much of PO13 0 means our surveyors pay particular attention to foundations and signs of subsidence. The shrink-swell behaviour of clay soils can cause movement, particularly where trees or hedgerows are present near foundations. We also note the proximity of properties to tidal flood zones around Stokes Bay and the River Alver valley, as these environmental factors can significantly affect a property's long-term viability and insurance costs. Our detailed assessment ensures you enter the purchase with full awareness of any local environmental risks.

• Roof and loft structure
• Walls, chimneys, and damp proofing
• Floors, stairs, and balconies
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Bathrooms and kitchen fittings
• Electrical and gas visible installations
• Garages and outbuildings
• Exterior finishes and drainage

Properties in the PO13 0 area present several typical defects that our surveyors frequently identify during inspections. Damp issues are prevalent, particularly in older properties built before modern damp-proof courses were standard. Rising damp affects many period homes in Alverstoke and Lee-on-the-Solent, while penetrating damp often results from defective gutters, degraded pointing, or damaged roof coverings. The coastal environment accelerates wear on external elements, with salt-laden air causing accelerated corrosion of metalwork including rain water goods, window frames, and structural fixings. We've seen numerous cases where coastal exposure has significantly degraded UPVC windows and doors well before their expected lifespan.

Structural movement manifests as cracks in walls and ceilings, often seen in properties suffering from settlement or subsidence. The underlying geology of soft sands and clays means shrink-swell subsidence is a known risk in the Gosport area, particularly where trees or hedgerows are present near foundations. Our surveyors carefully assess any crack patterns, measuring and documenting their characteristics to determine likely cause and severity. Doors and windows that don't close properly often indicate movement within the structure. We look specifically for signs of movement near the River Alver valley and other areas where the geology may be more variable, taking extra care to document any concerns.

Roof defects rank among the most frequently identified issues, with missing or slipped tiles, deteriorated flashings, and inadequate insulation commonly found in properties across PO13 0. Flat roofs, particularly on extensions and garage structures, frequently show signs of ponding, membrane degradation, and leaks. Electrical installations in older properties often fail to meet current regulations, with outdated consumer units, absence of RCD protection, and older wiring schemes requiring upgrading. The presence of non-traditional construction types in the area, including post-war Easiform concrete houses and pre-cast reinforced concrete properties, requires experienced assessment to identify their specific defect patterns. We've found that some of these non-traditional properties, particularly those built in the late 1940s and 1950s, can have significant issues with carbonation and chloride penetration that require specialist attention.

For properties within the various conservation areas across PO13 0, additional considerations apply. Gosport has eighteen designated conservation areas, and over 200 Listed Building entries covering approximately 500 buildings. Properties in these areas may have restrictions on alterations and may require specialist surveys beyond our standard Level 2 assessment. If you're considering a listed building purchase, we can advise whether a more detailed building survey would be appropriate. The Stokes Bay Conservation Area, designated in October 2022, and other historic areas contain properties with traditional construction methods that may require specific expertise to assess correctly.