RICS Level 2 Survey in Cardigan SA43

The RICS Level 2 Survey is specifically designed for properties in reasonable condition, including conventional houses, flats, and bungalows built with standard materials. Our inspectors examine the accessible parts of the property, from the roof down to the foundations, assessing the overall condition and identifying any defects that require attention. The survey covers the main structural elements, including walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, and the integrity of the building's envelope.

In Cardigan and the surrounding SA43 area, properties range from historic Georgian farmhouses dating back to the 1800s to contemporary new builds at developments like Longshore in Aberporth. Our surveyors understand the different construction methods used across this varied housing stock, from traditional Welsh slate-fronted farmhouses to modern sustainable homes. This local expertise allows us to identify issues that are particularly relevant to properties in this coastal region of Ceredigion.

The Level 2 Survey uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element inspected. Red ratings highlight serious issues requiring urgent attention, amber ratings flag defects that need repairing or replacing soon, and green ratings indicate satisfactory condition. This clear format helps you prioritises any remedial work needed and provides valuable ammunition for price negotiations with the seller.

Our reports go beyond simple defect identification. We provide context about how local factors in the SA43 area affect properties, explaining why certain issues occur and what they might lead to if left untreated. This practical guidance helps you understand the true implications of our findings and make informed decisions about your potential purchase.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, damp proof course, and insulation
• Floors, ceilings, and stairs
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Garages and outbuildings
• External areas and boundaries

The SA43 postcode area boasts a diverse range of property types, each with their own characteristics and potential issues. Detached properties, which dominate the local market with an average price of £322,279, offer spacious accommodation but often come with larger roofs and more external walls that require maintenance. Semi-detached homes, averaging £212,074, share structural walls with neighbouring properties, which can introduce specific considerations such as shared damp proof courses or drainage systems.

Terraced properties in Cardigan, with typical values around £186,288, represent a significant portion of the housing stock. These older properties, some dating back to the Victorian or Edwardian periods, often feature traditional construction methods including solid walls rather than cavity walls. This can affect insulation properties and may require specific advice on energy efficiency improvements. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing these traditional buildings and can identify issues such as rising damp, which is a common problem in older terraced houses.

New build properties are also available in SA43, with developments such as Longshore in Aberporth offering contemporary homes with modern construction methods. While new builds typically have fewer issues than older properties, a Level 2 Survey can still identify any construction defects or finish issues that builders should rectify under their warranty obligations. Even newly constructed homes benefit from an independent inspection to ensure everything meets expected standards.

The area also includes several older properties dating from the Georgian period, such as properties around St. Mary's Church in Cardigan and along the river in Llechryd. These historic homes require particular attention to their structural integrity and any modifications that may have been made over the years. Our surveyors understand traditional construction methods and can assess these older buildings appropriately.

Properties in the SA43 area benefit from their coastal location near Cardigan Bay, but this environment brings specific considerations for homeowners. The proximity to the sea means that salt-laden air can accelerate the deterioration of external finishes, particularly on metal components such as railings, gutters, and window frames. Our surveyors pay particular attention to the condition of external timber and metalwork when inspecting properties in Aberporth, Tresaith, and other coastal villages.

While specific flood risk data for SA43 was not identified in our research, properties near the coast or close to rivers should be carefully assessed for potential flood risk. Our survey includes visual inspection of the property's position relative to watercourses and notes any signs of previous flooding or water damage. We can recommend further investigations if necessary, including specialist flood risk assessments for properties in vulnerable locations.

Traditional coastal cottages in the area often feature solid stone walls, which were built before modern building regulations introduced cavity wall construction. These properties can be more susceptible to damp penetration and may have limited insulation. A RICS Level 2 Survey identifies these issues and provides practical recommendations for improving the property's performance while respecting its traditional character.

Properties in coastal locations also face potential issues with coastal erosion over time, particularly those close to cliff edges or unstable ground. Our surveyors note the proximity of properties to the coastline and any visible signs of ground movement or erosion that might affect the long-term stability of the building.

Through our years of surveying properties across Cardigan and the surrounding SA43 area, we have identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems feature prominently, particularly in older properties with solid walls where the original damp proof course may have failed or never been installed. The coastal climate exacerbates these issues, with moisture-laden air penetrating porous external finishes more readily than in drier inland areas.

Roof conditions are another common finding in our surveys, especially on period properties with original slate roofs that may be approaching the end of their lifespan. We frequently identify slipped or broken tiles, deteriorated pointing to ridge tiles, and issues with flashing around chimneys and roof windows. For properties in the Cardigan town centre, we often see roofs that have been partially repaired with mismatched materials over the years.

Electrical systems in older properties frequently require attention, with many homes in SA43 still containing outdated consumer units, insufficient socket outlets, and older wiring that does not meet current regulations. Our survey includes a visual inspection of the electrical installation and will recommend a registered electrician to conduct a more thorough Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) if concerns are identified.

Single glazing remains common in older properties throughout the SA43 area, particularly in Victorian and Georgian terraced houses and period cottages. While not a defect as such, this significantly affects energy efficiency and heating costs. Our survey reports flag this issue and provide guidance on the options available for upgrading to double or triple glazing without compromising the character of traditional buildings.