RICS Level 2 Survey in RM8 Dagenham

Our RICS Level 2 surveys in RM8 cover everything from the roof to the foundations. We visually inspect all accessible areas of the property, including the roof structure, walls, windows, doors, plumbing, electrical systems, and damp levels. The survey includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost, giving you a complete picture of your potential investment. In the RM8 area, where many properties were built during the inter-war and post-war periods, our inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of older roof structures, original damp-proof courses, and any signs of movement or subsidence that may be present.

Given that the geology of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham includes London Clay, our surveyors are specifically trained to look for signs of subsidence or heave, which can affect properties with shallow foundations. London Clay expands when wet and shrinks during dry periods, creating movement that can lead to structural issues over time. Our inspectors examine walls, floors, and ceilings for cracks that may indicate movement, and we assess the property's drainage and foundations carefully. This is particularly important in RM8, where the underlying clay soil makes properties potentially susceptible to these issues.

We also check for damp, which is a common problem in older properties across Dagenham. Rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation can all affect the integrity of a property and the health of its occupants. Our surveyors use professional moisture meters and their expertise to identify areas where damp may be present, even if it is not immediately visible. We check the condition of windows, gutters, and external render, all of which can allow water ingress if they are damaged or poorly maintained. For flats and maisonettes in RM8, we also assess the condition of shared elements and any communal areas that form part of the property.

Electrical and gas safety is another key area we examine during our survey. Many homes in RM8 still have original wiring from the 1960s or earlier that may not meet current Part P building regulations. We cannot test hidden wiring, but we can identify obvious deficiencies such as outdated consumer units, inadequate earthing, or visible signs of wear. Our inspectors will recommend that a qualified electrician conduct a more thorough inspection if any concerns are identified, helping you avoid potential fire hazards before you move in.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Windows and doors
• Drainage and gutters
• Foundations and structural movement
• Electrical safety and gas installations

Once your survey is complete, you will receive a comprehensive RICS Level 2 report that is easy to understand. The report uses a traffic light system to rate the condition of different elements: green indicates no issues requiring attention, amber means defects that need repairing but are not serious, and red highlights serious issues that require urgent attention. This clear system helps you prioritises any work that may be needed and gives you ammunition when negotiating with sellers.

Your report also includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost. The market valuation is based on current local data, including the RM8 property market trends showing prices have increased by 6% over the last year. The insurance rebuild cost is important for buildings insurance purposes and ensures you have adequate cover. If the survey reveals issues that affect the property's value, you can share the report with your mortgage lender, who may need to reassess their offer. Many buyers in RM8 use the survey report to negotiate a reduction in the purchase price or to request that the seller carries out repairs before completion.

For properties in the RM8 area, our surveyors pay special attention to potential flood risk. While RM8 is not directly on a river, surface water flooding can occur in parts of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, particularly in low-lying areas or where drainage is inadequate. Our report will note if the property is in an area at risk of flooding and advise on any necessary precautions or surveys. We also check for any signs of past flooding or water damage that may not be immediately apparent.

The valuation section of our report also considers the specific characteristics of the RM8 market. With 206 property sales in the last 12 months and prices ranging from around £233,000 for flats to over £417,000 for semi-detached houses, we provide an accurate assessment based on comparable properties in the local area. This helps you understand whether the asking price reflects the current market conditions and the property's condition.