RICS Level 2 Survey in PR6 (Chorley)

A RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides a thorough inspection of a property's visible condition and identifies any significant defects that might affect its value or require costly repairs. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof, walls, windows, doors, plumbing, and electrical systems. The survey includes a market valuation and an insurance reinstatement figure, giving you a complete picture of the property's worth. We check the condition of the roof covering and flashings, examine walls for signs of movement or damp, inspect windows and doors for operation and condition, and visually assess visible plumbing and electrical installations.

Properties in PR6 present varying challenges for surveyors. The area features numerous older properties, including many listed buildings in Wheelton, Heapey, and Heath Charnock that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These historic homes often have traditional construction methods such as solid walls, original timber joinery, and older roofing materials that require careful assessment. Our surveyors are experienced in evaluating properties with character features while identifying issues that might be hidden from a casual viewing. We understand that features like original sash windows, period fireplaces, and exposed timber beams are part of a property's charm, but they can also hide defects that require attention.

For newer properties in developments around Whittle-le-Woods and Wheelton, the survey checks the quality of modern construction and identifies any defects that may have arisen from building defects or poor workmanship. Even relatively modern homes can have issues with damp proofing, window installations, or roof conditions that only a professional inspection will reveal. The RICS Level 2 format is suitable for conventional houses and flats in reasonable condition, making it ideal for the majority of properties in the PR6 area. We see new build developments regularly, including properties near Rotherham Top Farm in Whittle Le Woods and the new sites being developed on former commercial premises.

Our survey reports use a clear traffic light rating system that makes it easy to understand the condition of different elements. Each section of the property receives a rating from green (no repair needed) to red (urgent repairs required), giving you a clear picture of where attention is needed. The report also includes our professional opinion of the property's market value and an insurance reinstatement figure, which is particularly useful for mortgage purposes and insurance quotes.

• Roof condition and covering
• Wall structure and external joinery
• Damp and timber condition
• Plumbing and electrical basics
• Windows, doors, and ceilings
• Parking and access issues

Properties throughout the PR6 area suffer from several common defects that our surveyors regularly identify. The older terraced houses, which make up a significant portion of the housing stock, often have aging roof coverings that require attention. Slipped tiles, deteriorated pointing, and worn leadwork are frequently found during inspections. These issues can allow water ingress that leads to more serious damp problems inside the property. We've seen numerous properties in areas like Heapey and Wheelton where roof issues have resulted in internal damp damage that wasn't visible during viewings.

Many properties in the area still have original electrical installations that do not meet current safety standards. Rewiring is often required in homes built before the 1970s, and our surveyors will note any visible electrical deficiencies that require investigation by a qualified electrician. Similarly, plumbing systems in older properties may use outdated materials that are prone to leaks or reduced water pressure. We regularly recommend that buyers obtain quotes for electrical and plumbing works as part of their purchase considerations.

The presence of trees and vegetation near properties in more rural parts of PR6, particularly around Heapey and Wheelton, can lead to subsidence issues. Clay soils in parts of Lancashire are susceptible to shrink-swell movement when moisture levels change, and our surveyors check for signs of structural movement that might indicate foundation problems. Properties in areas with historical mining activity also require careful assessment for any ground stability concerns. We've identified several properties in the PR6 area where ground conditions have caused structural issues that needed further investigation.

Additionally, we commonly find issues with damp proof courses in older properties, particularly those built before the 1960s. Many homes in the Chorley area lack modern damp proofing or have damp proof courses that have failed over time. Rising damp and penetrating damp are frequently identified during our surveys, especially in properties with solid walls or those that have had modern double glazing installed without adequate ventilation. Our surveyors will recommend appropriate remedial works where damp issues are found.

• Roof defects and tile slippage
• Rising and penetrating damp
• Outdated electrical installations
• Structural movement and subsidence
• Timber decay and woodworm
• Chimney and flashing deterioration