RICS Level 2 Survey in Kilgetty SA68

Our RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows, checking for signs of damp, rot, structural movement, and general wear and tear. Our surveyors inspect the roof space where safe access permits, examining rafters, joists, insulation, and any signs of timber decay or pest infestation. We also assess the condition of the property's exterior, including gutters, fascias, and brickwork pointing. Every inspection follows the rigorous RICS standards that you can trust to provide an accurate assessment of the property's condition.

In the SA68 area, where many properties have historical roots going back decades or even longer, our inspectors pay particular attention to common defect patterns. We check for signs of damp penetration, which can be prevalent in older solid-wall constructions common to the region. Roof conditions receive careful scrutiny, given Pembrokeshire's exposure to coastal weather patterns that can accelerate wear on roofing materials. We examine the condition of window frames, doors, and their fittings, noting any decay or operational issues that might require attention. The proximity to the coast means salt-laden air can affect external surfaces and metal fixtures, so we assess render, brickwork, and metal elements with this exposure in mind.

Our survey includes a comprehensive assessment of the property's services, covering electrical systems, plumbing, and drainage. We identify any obvious safety hazards or systems that fall below current regulations. The survey also evaluates the property's energy efficiency, highlighting areas where improvements could be made. Given the age profile of many properties in the SA68 area, we pay particular attention to outdated electrical systems that may not meet modern standards, as well as insulation levels that could be improved to reduce energy costs. Every element we inspect is clearly reported in our final document, with issues categorised by their severity and recommended action.

We understand that buying a property in the SA68 area comes with specific considerations that differ from other parts of Wales or the UK. Our local experience means we know what to look for in properties ranging from Victorian terraces near the village centre to modern executive homes in new developments. We tailor our inspection approach based on the property type, age, and construction method, ensuring a relevant and thorough assessment. The report we provide uses the RICS traffic-light coding system, making it easy to see at a glance which issues require immediate attention and which are worth monitoring over time.

• Structural elements (walls, floors, ceilings)
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and timber condition assessment
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Services (electrics, plumbing, heating)
• Drainage and gutters
• Insulation and energy efficiency
• External finishes and boundaries

The SA68 postcode area, primarily encompassing Kilgetty, has seen property prices increase by 1.67% over the last 12 months, with historical sold prices being 8% up on the previous year and similar to the 2022 peak of £295,905. The majority of properties sold in SA68 over the last year were detached properties, with current asking price data showing 49 detached properties, 8 semi-detached properties, 3 terraced properties, and 2 flats available. This housing mix means that most buyers in the area are purchasing larger family homes, where a thorough survey can identify issues that might not be visible during a casual viewing.

The area's proximity to the coast means properties may be exposed to salt-laden air, which can accelerate weathering of external surfaces and metal fixtures. Our surveyors assess the condition of external render, brickwork, and metal elements with this coastal exposure in mind. We also note the effects of Pembrokeshire's weather patterns on property conditions, including the impact of wet and windy conditions on roofing materials and external joinery. Properties within close proximity to the coast may require more frequent maintenance to keep external elements in good condition, and our report will highlight any areas where this maintenance has been neglected.

Many properties in the SA68 area will have been built using conventional construction methods, typically brick or concrete block with tile or slate roofing. However, older properties may feature solid wall construction, original timber frame elements, or traditional local building materials. These older properties often require more careful assessment, and our surveyors are trained to identify the specific issues that affect historic buildings in the Pembrokeshire region. Common issues we find in older properties include dampness, roof problems, timber defects such as rot and woodworm, outdated electrical and plumbing systems, and structural movement. Our detailed assessment ensures you have a complete picture of any remedial work that may be needed.

Properties in the SA68 area may also have been subject to alterations and extensions over the years, and our surveyors check whether these changes were carried out with appropriate building regulations approval. We assess the structural integrity of any additions and note any concerns about the quality of work or potential compliance issues. This is particularly important for older properties where multiple owners may have made changes over the years without always obtaining the necessary permissions or using qualified contractors.