RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in Fareham PO16

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of the property's accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and identifying defects that require attention. Our chartered surveyors examine the main structural elements including walls, roofs, floors, and foundations, looking for signs of movement, deterioration, or damage. The survey uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the severity of any issues discovered, with red ratings highlighting serious defects that may require urgent attention, amber ratings for items requiring future repair, and green ratings for satisfactory conditions.

During the inspection, our surveyor will assess the property's exposure to various risks relevant to the local area. In PO16, this includes evaluating the potential impact of London Clay geology on foundations, checking for signs of damp related to the age of the property, and examining roof conditions particularly on homes over 30-40 years old. The survey also covers the condition of walls, windows, doors, chimneys, and outside areas, providing you with a complete picture of the property's current state.

One of the key benefits of the RICS Level 2 Survey is the market valuation and insurance rebuild cost provided alongside the condition assessment. This gives you insight into whether the property is priced appropriately for its condition and helps you understand the potential costs of any repairs or improvements identified. For properties in PO16, where we have seen 237 sales in the last 12 months and prices ranging significantly across different property types, this valuation element adds considerable value to your purchasing decision.

Our inspectors check the condition of damp-proof courses, ventilation systems, and drainage, which are particularly important in properties built before modern building regulations were introduced. Many homes in PO16 were constructed between 1945 and 1980 using cavity wall construction, and our surveyors know exactly what to look for in these properties. We also examine any extensions or alterations that may have been carried out over the years, as these often reveal issues with building control compliance or structural integrity.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof covering and structure
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and electrical basics
• External areas and boundaries

Properties in the PO16 area present several common issues that our RICS Level 2 Surveys frequently identify. Given the prevalence of London Clay geology in the Fareham area, subsidence and heave are significant concerns, particularly for properties with shallow foundations or those near trees and vegetation. Our surveyors carefully examine walls, floors, and windows for signs of movement such as cracking, sticking doors, or uneven floors that may indicate structural movement related to ground conditions. Properties with large trees in their gardens, particularly those with sycamore or oak trees, require extra attention as these species have high water demands that can cause clay shrinkage.

Damp problems rank among the most frequently identified issues in PO16 properties, especially in homes built before the 1970s. Rising damp occurs when properties lack a proper damp-proof course or when ground levels have been raised over time. Penetrating damp often affects older properties where pointing or rendering has deteriorated. Condensation is common in properties with inadequate ventilation, particularly in newer homes with high levels of insulation. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify the type and cause of any dampness and recommend appropriate remedies. In properties near Fareham Creek, we also see issues related to moisture being drawn up through solid floors from the ground.

Roof conditions also feature prominently in survey findings for PO16 properties. Many homes in the area are over 50 years old, and roofs of this age often show signs of wear including slipped tiles, deteriorated flashing, and damaged felt. Our inspection covers the roof covering, chimneys, gutters, and fascias, identifying any repairs that may be needed now or in the near future. Electrical and plumbing issues are also commonly identified, particularly in properties that have not been updated for several decades and may still have original wiring or pipework that does not meet current standards. We check consumer units, earthing arrangements, and the condition of visible pipework to identify potential hazards.

The age profile of housing in PO16 means that many properties will have been subject to various alterations and extensions over the years. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying whether these works have been carried out with appropriate building control approval and whether they affect the structural integrity of the property. We also check for signs of timber decay, including woodworm infestation, which can affect properties of any age but is more common in older homes with original timber elements.

• Subsidence related to clay soil
• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof deterioration and tile slip
• Outdated electrical systems
• Timber defects and woodworm
• Drainage issues

The Fareham housing market in PO16 offers excellent value compared to nearby Portsmouth and Southampton, making it attractive for first-time buyers and families alike. However, the diversity of property types and ages in the area means that each property comes with its own set of potential issues. A RICS Level 2 Survey provides you with the knowledge needed to negotiate on the price if defects are found, or to budget for necessary repairs before you move in.

With an average property price of £321,974 in PO16, the investment in a survey costing between £400 and £700 represents excellent value for money. The survey not only identifies defects but also provides a market valuation that confirms whether you are paying a fair price for the property in its current condition. In a market where 237 properties have sold in the last 12 months, having this level of insight gives you a significant advantage in negotiations.

Our chartered surveyors are familiar with all aspects of the PO16 property market, from the modern developments along the M27 corridor to the historic properties in Fareham town centre. We understand the local authority building control requirements, the typical construction methods used in different eras, and the specific issues that affect properties in this area. This expertise allows us to provide you with a report that is both technically accurate and relevant to your specific property.