RICS Level 2 Survey in Saundersfoot

The RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of your Saundersfoot property. Our chartered surveyors examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and integral fixtures, assessing each element for condition, defects, and maintenance requirements. The survey includes a detailed evaluation of the property's overall condition and highlights any areas requiring immediate attention or future maintenance planning.

Given Saundersfoot's coastal location, our inspectors pay particular attention to issues commonly affecting properties in this area. The proximity to the sea means damp penetration, salt erosion, and weathering are frequent concerns, especially in older properties constructed with solid walls. We examine roof conditions thoroughly, checking for slipped or broken slates, deteriorated leadwork, and flashing around chimneys that can allow water ingress during Pembrokeshire's wet winter months. Our surveyors are experienced with the various roof types found locally, from traditional Welsh slate to modern concrete tiles.

Our survey report uses a clear traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each element: red for urgent defects requiring attention, amber for issues requiring future investigation or maintenance, and green for satisfactory condition. This straightforward approach helps you understand exactly what you're purchasing and enables you to request repairs or price reductions from the vendor based on our findings.

• External walls and fabric
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp-proof course and dampness
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and electrical visible items
• Floors and stairs
• Garages and outbuildings
• Thermal efficiency observations

Saundersfoot's housing mix reflects its development as a historic fishing port and Victorian seaside resort. According to ONS Census 2021 data, the village has a relatively even split between property types, with detached homes comprising 35.8% of the housing stock, semi-detached properties at 26.6%, terraced houses at 20.3%, and flats or maisonettes at 16.7%. This diversity means buyers need surveyors who understand everything from traditional stone-built harbour cottages to modern detached houses in The Ridgeway and The Coppins developments.

The age distribution of properties in Saundersfoot shows that 18% of homes were built before 1919, with a further 10% constructed between 1919 and 1945. The largest proportion, 36%, was built between 1945 and 1980, while the remaining 36% are post-1980 constructions. This means the majority of properties in Saundersfoot will benefit significantly from a RICS Level 2 Survey, as older properties are more likely to have hidden defects, outdated building systems, and age-related issues that our inspectors can identify during their visual assessment.

Our surveyors understand the construction methods typical of each era in this area. Pre-1919 properties often feature solid wall construction using local Old Red Sandstone, with traditional lime mortar pointing that requires specific maintenance approaches. Properties from the interwar period may incorporate early cavity wall construction, while post-war homes typically feature more standard cavity wall building techniques. The newer developments at The Ridgeway and The Coppins use contemporary construction methods but may still present defects that our inspectors can identify.

Our experience surveying properties across Saundersfoot and the wider Pembrokeshire coast reveals several recurring defect patterns that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems feature prominently in our findings, particularly in older properties with solid wall construction. The coastal climate, with its high humidity and salt-laden air, accelerates moisture penetration through walls that may have inadequate damp-proof courses. Rising damp and penetrating damp are frequently identified in period properties, especially those that have been vacant or poorly maintained.

Roof condition issues represent another common finding in Saundersfoot surveys. Many properties feature traditional slate roofing, and while slate is durable, age and exposure to coastal weather conditions lead to deterioration. We regularly identify slipped or broken slates, degraded pointing, damaged flashing around valleys and chimneys, and corroded leadwork. These defects can allow water penetration that leads to internal damage, timber decay, and potentially costly repairs if not addressed.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older Saundersfoot properties often require attention. Properties built before the 1970s may have rubber-insulated wiring, obsolete fuse boxes, and insufficient socket outlets for modern needs. Similarly, lead pipes or galvanised steel plumbing, common in older homes, may still be in service despite being well beyond their expected lifespan. Our survey highlights these issues and recommends they be investigated by qualified electricians and plumbers.

Timber defects including woodworm infestation and both wet and dry rot affect many older properties in the area. Ground floor timbers, particularly in properties with suspended timber floors or solid floors with damp proof course failures, are vulnerable. Roof timbers can also be affected where ventilation is poor or where roof coverings have allowed water ingress. We identify these issues during our inspection and advise on appropriate remediation.

Saundersfoot's coastal position brings specific environmental considerations that our surveyors incorporate into every inspection. The village faces multiple flood risk sources, including tidal flooding from Carmarthen Bay, fluvial flooding from the Saundersfoot Stream that runs through the village, and surface water flooding during periods of intense rainfall. Properties in low-lying areas near the harbour and along the stream corridor are particularly vulnerable, and our survey notes any evidence of previous flooding or water damage where visible.

The geology of the Saundersfoot area includes Old Red Sandstone, Carboniferous Limestone, and Coal Measures deposits. While significant mining-related subsidence is less common in this coastal area compared to inland South Wales, our surveyors remain alert to signs of ground movement, particularly in properties on slopes or those with visible cracking. We also note the potential for shrink-swell movement in clay soils derived from shale deposits, which can affect foundations, particularly during periods of drought followed by wet weather.

Coastal erosion is another environmental factor affecting some properties very close to the shoreline. While most Saundersfoot properties are set back from the cliff edges, those in exposed positions may show signs of erosion impact or may have had remedial works undertaken. Our survey includes observations on the property's proximity to the coast and any visible signs of erosion-related issues. We will note if the property falls within any designated flood zones and advise on appropriate investigations.