RICS Level 2 Survey in S63 5 Rotherham

Our chartered surveyors conduct a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and permanent fixtures to identify defects, decay, or areas requiring attention. The survey includes an assessment of the property's overall condition and highlights any issues that might affect its value or require future maintenance investment.

In the S63 area, where we frequently encounter semi-detached properties built between the 1930s and 1970s, our inspectors pay particular attention to common issues such as roof condition, damp penetration, and the integrity of window frames. Many properties in this area were constructed using traditional brick methods with slate or tile roofs, typical of South Yorkshire's housing stock. We also check the condition of plumbing and electrical installations where visible, though we note that a full electrical or gas safety check requires separate qualified specialists.

The Level 2 survey includes a market valuation based on the property type and location. For properties in S63 5, our valuers use local sales data and current market conditions to provide an accurate assessment. We draw on recent transaction data, including the 106 sales in the £110,000-£150,000 range and the 90 sales in the £150,000-£190,000 bracket that dominated the market last year. If we identify significant defects, we flag these as "Category 3" issues requiring urgent attention, giving you clear information to either renegotiate the purchase price or request repairs before completion.

Our inspection covers eight key areas that our surveyors examine systematically during every property visit. Each element receives a condition rating that reflects its current state and helps you prioritise any work needed after moving in.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall condition and pointing
• Damp and timber decay
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and drainage
• Electrical conditions
• Floors and stairs
• Foundations and substructure

The S63 property market has seen considerable activity, with 429 residential sales in the last year alone. While this represents a decrease of 44% relative to the previous year, the market remains active with properties regularly changing hands. The majority of these sales fell in the £110,000-£190,000 brackets, representing significant financial commitments for buyers. A RICS Level 2 Survey provides essential protection by revealing defects that might not be apparent during a viewing.

Properties in the wider S63 area include a mix of housing types from different eras. Many semi-detached and terraced properties date from the mid-20th century, meaning they may have outdated electrical systems, original windows requiring replacement, or roofs nearing the end of their lifespan. The prevalence of older housing stock makes surveys particularly valuable, as properties over 50 years old are more likely to have hidden defects that only a professional inspection can uncover. Our survey identifies these issues before you commit your funds.

The 3.2% price increase over the past year shows continued demand in the area, making it even more important that buyers secure properties in good condition. A survey can reveal problems that justify renegotiation, potentially saving you thousands of pounds in repair costs or providing leverage to reduce the asking price. With average property values at £165,000, even a 5% reduction in price through negotiation represents over £8,000 saved.

New build properties in the S63 area, while generally in better condition than older homes, can still benefit from a Level 2 Survey. Our inspection can identify construction defects, snagging issues, or problems with fittings and finishes that builders should address before the warranty period expires. Many buyers on new build developments have found our surveys valuable for ensuring developers complete work to an acceptable standard.

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout the S63 region, we frequently identify several recurring issues. Roof problems rank highly among our findings, with missing or damaged tiles, deteriorated flashing, and sagging rooflines common in older properties. Given the typical weather in South Yorkshire, with its frequent rainfall and occasional severe storms, roof condition is particularly important as persistent rain can exacerbate minor defects. Many properties in the S63 area have original roofs that are now 50-70 years old and approaching the end of their serviceable life.

Damp appears regularly in our surveys, particularly in properties without modern damp-proof courses or with solid walls that lack cavity insulation. Rising damp and penetrating damp can cause significant damage to plasterwork and timber if left untreated. The clay-rich soils found in parts of South Yorkshire can also contribute to moisture-related issues, especially where drainage around foundations is poor. Our inspectors check for visible signs of damp using moisture meters and note any areas of concern in the report.

Outdated electrical installations are another common finding, especially in properties that have not been updated for 20 years or more. We cannot conduct a full electrical inspection as this requires a registered electrician, but we flag any obvious concerns with consumer units, wiring, or socket locations that should be checked by a qualified professional. Many properties in the S63 area still have original electrical systems from the 1960s or 1970s that would not meet current regulations.

Window condition varies significantly depending on the property age. Original wooden windows in older properties may have rot or fail to close properly, while uPVC windows from previous renovations may be of varying quality. We assess all windows visually and note any defects that affect security or weather tightness. Additionally, we check for signs of condensation between double-glazed units, which indicates seal failure and reduces the window's thermal efficiency.

Structural movement, while not ubiquitous, appears often enough that our surveyors know what to look for. Properties in former mining areas can show signs of subsidence, while older properties may have experienced movement due to ground conditions or inadequate foundations. We examine walls for cracking, check door and window operation for signs of movement, and assess the overall structural integrity of the property.