RICS Level 2 Survey in Simonswood

A RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and identifying any defects or areas that require attention. The survey includes a detailed examination of the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and fixtures, as well as the property's services such as plumbing, electrical, and heating systems. Our surveyor will also check for any signs of damp, rot, structural movement, or other issues that could impact the property's value or require costly repairs in the future.

In Simonswood, where the majority of properties sold are semi-detached homes, our inspectors have extensive experience with the common issues affecting these property types. The survey follows RICS standards and uses a clear traffic light rating system to indicate the condition of each element - red for urgent issues requiring immediate attention, amber for defects that need rectifying, and green for satisfactory condition. This makes it easy for you to understand the severity of any problems identified.

The Level 2 survey also includes a market valuation and insurance reconstruction value, giving you a clear picture of the property's worth in the current Simonswood market. With detached properties averaging £430,000 and semi-detached properties at £209,750, having an accurate valuation alongside the condition assessment helps you make an informed decision about your investment. Our surveyors cross-reference property values with recent sales data from the local area to ensure the valuation reflects current market conditions.

We inspect all accessible parts of the property, including the roof space where safely accessible, sub-floor areas, and the external fabric of the building. Our visual assessment covers the condition of fascias and soffits, gutters and downpipes, and the general external appearance. We also note any visible evidence of Japanese knotweed or other invasive species that could affect the property or its boundaries.

• Structural assessment
• Damp and rot detection
• Roof and chimney inspection
• Electrical and plumbing checks
• Thermal efficiency comments
• Market valuation
• Traffic light rating system
• Insurance reinstatement value

Properties in the Simonswood area, like others throughout West Lancashire, can present specific challenges that our surveyors know to look for during the inspection process. While Simonswood itself does not fall within a high-risk flood zone, our surveyors always check for signs of previous water ingress or damp penetration that can affect properties in the region. The proximity to surrounding farmland and green spaces can sometimes lead to drainage issues that manifest as damp walls or subsidence indicators.

Many properties in the L33 area were built during the post-war period through to the 1980s, meaning they may contain original plumbing, electrical systems, or roofing that is now approaching or has exceeded its expected lifespan. Our inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of roof coverings, pointing to chimney stacks, and the state of lead flashing - all common areas where defects can develop in properties of this age. We also check for evidence of structural movement, which can manifest as cracks in walls or doors that no longer close properly.

Given the lack of new-build developments specifically within Simonswood (L33), most properties available on the market will be existing homes of varying ages. This makes the Level 2 survey particularly valuable, as it provides you with an independent assessment of the property's current condition against its age and style. Our surveyors understand that older properties often have character features that require specific knowledge to assess properly, and we provide detailed advice on any maintenance or repair work needed to preserve these elements.

Windows and doors in properties throughout West Lancashire often show signs of deterioration, particularly in timber-framed units where paintwork has failed or seals have broken down. Our inspection includes testing the operation of windows and doors, checking for draughts, and assessing the condition of locks and hardware. Any rot in timber frames or sills is identified and rated according to its severity using our traffic light system.

Your RICS Level 2 survey report is divided into clear sections covering each major element of the property. Each section receives a rating of satisfactory, requiring attention, or requires urgent attention. The report also includes a clear summary at the front, highlighting the most important issues that you need to be aware of before proceeding with your purchase in Simonswood. This summary is particularly useful for quickly understanding the overall condition of the property and prioritising any follow-up actions.

For properties in the Simonswood area, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues affecting local housing stock. While we do not have specific data on predominant construction materials in L33, our experience in West Lancashire means we check thoroughly for issues typical of properties in this region, including roof condition, damp penetration, and the condition of windows and doors. We also assess the effectiveness of existing damp-proof courses and ventilation, which are crucial for preventing condensation and mould in properties throughout the area.

The report also includes a reinstatement value for insurance purposes, which your mortgage lender will require. This is calculated based on the property type, size, and construction, and ensures you have adequate buildings insurance cover in place once you complete the purchase. Our valuation takes into account current building costs in the West Lancashire area, giving you an accurate figure for insurance purposes. This is separate from the market valuation provided in the report, which reflects what the property might sell for in the current Simonswood market.

If the survey identifies any issues that require specialist investigation, such as suspected subsidence, Japanese knotweed, or significant structural defects, we will clearly flag this in the report and recommend engaging an appropriate specialist. We never overstate issues to create unnecessary concern, but we also ensure you are fully informed about any matters that could affect your investment. Our goal is to provide you with a balanced, accurate assessment that helps you make the right decision about your Simonswood property.