RICS Level 2 Survey in Roughton

A RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, provides a comprehensive assessment of a property's condition without the intrusive investigations of a full building survey. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space, external walls, plumbing, electrical systems, and damp levels. The survey follows RICS guidelines and uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate where defects are found - red for urgent issues requiring attention, amber for matters needing future consideration, and green for satisfactory conditions.

The report includes detailed sections on the property's construction, the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, and doors, as well as the condition of damp-proofing, insulation, and drainage. We also examine outbuildings such as garages and sheds, and assess any boundaries or trees that might affect the property. For properties in Roughton, where detached homes dominate the market at nearly 67% of all sales, our surveyors pay particular attention to roof conditions given the age of many properties in the area and potential exposure to North Sea weather.

Unlike a simple valuation, the Level 2 Survey focuses specifically on the physical condition of the property and provides practical advice on any defects discovered. This means you can use the findings to negotiate a reduction in the purchase price, request repairs before completion, or make an informed decision to walk away if the issues are too severe. The report typically runs to 20-30 pages and includes photographs of key defects for reference, giving you a clear picture of any problems before you commit to the purchase.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall condition and dampness
• Plumbing and drainage systems
• Electrical safety observations
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Outbuildings and boundaries

The Roughton property market has shown considerable price volatility in recent years, with average prices fluctuating significantly between different sources and time periods. Property Market Intel data shows prices surged from £291,357 in 2020 to £407,214 in 2023, before declining to around £306,357 in 2025. This variability makes it even more important to understand exactly what you are buying - a property that appears well-priced might have hidden defects that affect its true value. Our survey gives you the facts you need to make an informed decision regardless of market conditions.

Detached properties dominate the Roughton market, representing nearly two-thirds of all sales with an average price of £339,000. These homes often feature large roof areas, multiple storeys, and complex construction details that can develop issues over time. The predominance of detached homes also means many properties have generous gardens and outbuildings, all of which fall within the scope of a Level 2 Survey. Our inspectors examine these external elements thoroughly, identifying any structural concerns or maintenance requirements that might not be immediately visible.

The price points involved in the Roughton market mean a RICS Level 2 Survey represents excellent value for money. For a relatively modest investment starting from around £400, you receive a comprehensive assessment that could reveal issues worth thousands of pounds in repair costs. Many buyers find that their survey pays for itself many times over by providing leverage in price negotiations or by alerting them to problems before they commit to the purchase. With average property values around £241,900, the survey cost is a small percentage of the overall investment yet provides crucial protection.

Given the significant variation in property prices reported by different sources - from Rightmove's £241,900 average to OnTheMarket's £478,000 - having an independent survey gives you confidence in what you're paying for. Our surveyors provide a market valuation as part of the Level 2 report, helping you understand whether the asking price reflects the property's true condition. This is particularly valuable in a market where price data can be inconsistent and where properties may have hidden issues affecting their actual worth.

Once your RICS Level 2 Survey is complete, you will receive a comprehensive report that typically runs to 20-30 pages. The report is structured to give you a clear understanding of the property's condition, with each section clearly labelled using the traffic light rating system. Red-rated items require urgent attention, amber-rated items are defects that should be addressed in due course, and green-rated items are in satisfactory condition. This system makes it easy to prioritise any work that may be needed after your purchase.

Each defect described in the report includes an explanation of the issue, its probable cause, and guidance on what action to take. For example, if damp is detected in a wall, the report will explain the likely source of the damp, whether it is rising damp or penetrating damp, and recommend the appropriate remedial action. We aim to provide enough detail that you understand exactly what you are dealing with, without needing technical expertise. Our surveyors write reports that are clear and accessible while remaining technically accurate.

The report also includes a reinstatement cost assessment, which estimates the cost of rebuilding the property if it were destroyed. This figure is important for insurance purposes and is included as standard in RICS Level 2 Surveys. Additionally, the surveyor will provide a market valuation, giving you confidence that the price you are paying reflects the property's true worth in the current Roughton market. This valuation is particularly useful given the price volatility seen in recent years.