RICS Level 2 Survey in Sheffield S9 2

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of the property's condition, focusing on the main elements that affect value and safety. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and all permanent fixtures and fittings. The survey includes a thorough assessment of any obvious signs of damp, rot, structural movement, or subsidence that could cost thousands to rectify. Our chartered surveyors will access the roof space where safe and accessible, checking the condition of rafters, joists, and insulation materials.

For properties in the S9 2 area, our inspectors pay particular attention to the common defects found in Sheffield's older housing stock. This includes checking for rising damp in solid wall constructions, assessing the condition of roof coverings and flashings, and evaluating outdated electrical installations that are frequently found in properties built before 1980. We also inspect the condition of pointing and gutters, which can deteriorate significantly in properties of this age. Many homes in the Darnall and Handsworth areas were built using traditional brick construction with solid external walls, which require different assessment criteria compared to modern cavity wall constructions.

The survey report includes clear condition ratings for each element: 1 (good), 2 (requiring attention), or 3 (requiring urgent repair). This traffic light system makes it easy for you to understand which issues need immediate attention and which can be monitored over time. We also provide market value and reinstatement cost assessments, which your mortgage lender will require. Each section of the report includes photographs of any defects found, so you can see exactly what our surveyor observed during the inspection.

Our RICS Level 2 Survey covers all key structural elements and building services. We inspect the foundations where visible, examine walls for cracks or signs of movement, assess the roof structure and covering materials, check all windows and doors for operation and condition, evaluate the plumbing and electrical installations visually, and inspect damp proof courses and ventilation systems. The report also includes a thorough review of any outbuildings, garages, or boundaries that form part of the property.

• Wall structure and condition
• Roof covering and chimneys
• Damp and moisture detection
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Floors, stairs, and ceilings
• External finishes and drainage
• Garage and outbuildings

The majority of properties in the S9 2 area were built using traditional brick construction methods that were standard throughout Sheffield during the mid-20th century. Many terraced and semi-detached homes feature solid external walls, which were the norm before cavity wall construction became widespread in the 1970s and 1980s. Solid wall properties require different assessment criteria for damp and thermal performance, and our surveyors understand how to identify potential issues specific to these construction types. We check for adequate damp proof courses and assess whether the original construction meets current expectations for weather resistance.

Roof construction in S9 2 properties typically consists of traditional cut timber rafters with concrete or clay tile coverings. Many roofs on properties built in the 1960s and 1970s were constructed with pre-cast concrete tiles, which can be prone to deterioration over time. Our inspectors carefully assess the condition of roof coverings, checking for cracked or slipped tiles, damaged ridge tiles, and defective mortar pointing. We also examine chimney stacks, which are common on these older properties and often require maintenance due to age and exposure to Sheffield's weather conditions.

Windows and doors in older S9 2 properties are typically timber-framed, often with single glazing that doesn't meet modern energy efficiency standards. Our survey includes assessment of the condition of joinery, checking for rot, decay, and operational issues. We also note the condition of seals around windows and assess whether replacement might be advisable for thermal efficiency. Many properties in the area have original windows that, while requiring maintenance, can often be restored rather than replaced.

Our surveyors regularly identify several common issues in Sheffield properties that buyers should be aware of. Given the area's industrial heritage and the age of much of the housing stock, damp problems are frequently found during our inspections. This includes rising damp in properties with solid wall construction, penetrating damp caused by defective roof coverings or damaged pointing, and condensation issues in properties with inadequate ventilation. In properties near the River Don corridor, we also watch for signs of past flooding or water damage that may not be immediately apparent during a viewing.

Roof conditions are another significant concern in the S9 2 area. Many properties built in the mid-20th century have original roof coverings that are now reaching the end of their lifespan. Our inspectors check for slipped tiles, defective flashings around chimneys and valleys, and signs of previous leaks that may have caused structural damage. The condition of ridge tiles and mortar pointing also requires careful assessment. We often find that original roof coverings on properties from the 1960s and 1970s are showing their age and may require replacement within the near future.

Electrical systems in older properties often don't meet current regulations and may pose safety risks. Our survey includes a visual inspection of the electrical installation, checking the consumer unit, wiring condition, and socket outlets where accessible. We note any obvious deficiencies but will always recommend a full electrical inspection by a qualified electrician before completion. Many properties in the S9 2 area still have original consumer units and wiring from the 1970s or earlier, which may not comply with current BS 7671 regulations.

The local geology in parts of Sheffield can also affect properties in S9 2. While we conduct a visual inspection only, we note any signs of subsidence, settlement, or ground movement that might be related to historical mining activity or clay shrinkage. Properties in areas with underlying coal measures may be subject to mining-related ground movement, and we always recommend that buyers obtain a mining search as part of their conveyancing. We also check for signs of trees or vegetation that might affect foundations, particularly in properties with large gardens.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile damage and slipped tiles
• Outdated electrical installations
• Defective pointing and gutters
• Signs of subsidence or movement
• Windows and door joinery deterioration