RICS Level 2 Survey in Probus

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying defects that could affect its value or require costly repairs. We check the condition of walls, roofs, floors, windows, and doors, as well as the property's structural integrity. Our surveyors examine both the interior and exterior of the building, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of its current condition. Every accessible area is visually assessed, with particular attention given to elements that commonly cause problems in Cornish properties.

In Probus, where we see a mix of traditional period cottages dating back to the pre-1919 era alongside modern developments, our inspectors are experienced in identifying issues common to different property types. From checking slate and stone construction found in older Cornish properties to assessing the build quality of newer homes, we provide detailed observations relevant to your specific property. We understand that traditional Cornish stonework requires specific expertise to assess properly, and our team is trained to identify the subtle signs of movement or deterioration that less experienced surveyors might miss.

The survey includes assessment of damp levels, timber condition, roof structure, and the condition of walls and foundations. We also evaluate the property's insulation and energy efficiency considerations, which are increasingly important for Cornwall homeowners facing rising energy costs. Our reports provide clear ratings for each element surveyed, making it easy to prioritize any necessary repairs or negotiations with sellers. In older properties, we pay particular attention to the condition of original features and any alterations that may have been made over the years.

Many properties in the Probus area feature traditional Cornish construction methods, including local stone walls, slate roofing, and rendered external finishes. While these buildings have tremendous character and build quality, they can present specific challenges such as damp penetration through solid walls, aging roof conditions with worn or slipped slates, and outdated electrical systems that may not meet current regulations. Our surveyors know exactly what to look for in these older properties, providing you with valuable negotiating power if issues are found that could affect your decision or the final purchase price.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp and timber assessment
• Plumbing and electrical overview
• Boundaries and exterior elements

Your RICS Level 2 survey report is designed to be clear and actionable. We use a simple rating system to indicate the condition of each element surveyed: Condition Rating 1 means no repair is currently needed, Condition Rating 2 indicates repairs are needed but are not urgent, and Condition Rating 3 signifies urgent repairs or serious defects requiring immediate attention. This straightforward approach makes it easy for you to understand exactly what you're buying and what investment may be required down the line. Each rating comes with a clear explanation of the issue and our recommendation for how to proceed.

For properties in Probus, where many homes are of traditional construction with solid stone walls and original features, Condition Rating 2 findings are relatively common. These might include recommendations for repointing stonework that has deteriorated over decades, replacing worn or slipped roof slates that are common in older Cornish properties, or updating aging electrical systems that may not meet current Part P building regulations. Our reports provide estimated costs for repairs where possible, helping you budget for any work needed after completion. We always aim to give you realistic cost guidance so there are no unpleasant surprises.

We also highlight legal considerations that your solicitor should investigate further. These might include boundary disputes, rights of way, or planning permission issues identified during our inspection. For properties in Probus, we pay particular attention to any alterations that may have been made to original buildings, as well as the presence of any shared access arrangements that are common in older village properties. This information helps your legal team conduct the necessary searches and address any concerns before contracts are exchanged, potentially saving you significant problems later.

Our survey reports also include a dedicated section on energy efficiency observations. Given the increasing importance of energy costs for Cornwall homeowners and the prevalence of older, less efficient properties in the Probus area, this section highlights any obvious areas where improvements could be made. While this is not a full Energy Performance Certificate, it provides useful guidance on the property's general energy performance that you can use when planning improvements or negotiating the purchase price.