RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey in SO40

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. The surveyor examines the main structural elements including walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, and foundations. We check the condition of joinery such as doors and windows, assess the state of damp-proof courses, and inspect plumbing, heating, and electrical installations where visible. In SO40, where properties range from new builds at Hill Street in Totton to older properties in Ashurst built with traditional brick and render, our surveyors know what to look for and can identify issues that might concern a buyer. We also examine the condition of any extensions or modifications, checking whether the work appears to have been carried out with appropriate building regulation approval, which is particularly important in the SO40 area where many properties have been extended over the years to accommodate growing families.

The survey report uses the RICS traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element. Green ratings mean no significant issues were found, amber indicates defects that require attention but are not serious, and red highlights serious issues that need immediate attention. Each section of the report includes practical advice on repairs and estimated costs, helping you negotiate with the seller or budget for necessary works. For properties near the River Test or in low-lying areas of Marchwood, we also highlight any flood risk considerations that may affect the property. Our reports include photographs of key defects and clear explanations so you can understand exactly what work may be needed, whether it is a simple damp treatment or more extensive structural repairs.

We examine the roof structure, checking for missing or damaged tiles, signs of leakage, and the condition of chimneys and flashings. In older properties in SO40, particularly those in conservation areas near the New Forest, roofs may be older and require more attention. Our surveyors also inspect gutters and downpipes, as these are common problem areas that can lead to damp issues if not properly maintained. Given the age of many properties in this area, including Victorian and Edwardian homes dating from the mid-to-late 1800s, we pay particular attention to the condition of original roof structures, any historical repairs, and the integrity of older tiling. The report includes photographs of key defects and clear explanations so you can understand exactly what work may be needed.

The survey also includes an energy efficiency assessment, which looks at the property's insulation, heating systems, and overall energy performance. With rising energy costs, this information is valuable for understanding future running costs. Many older properties in SO40, particularly those in villages like Cadnam and Bartley, may have poor insulation or outdated heating systems that significantly impact energy efficiency. Our surveyors can identify these issues and recommend improvements that could reduce your energy bills.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp proof course and membranes
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and heating systems
• Electrical installations
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Energy efficiency assessment

Based on our experience surveying properties across Totton, Marchwood, Ashurst and the surrounding areas, several common issues regularly appear in our reports. Damp is one of the most frequent problems, particularly in older properties where the damp proof course may be damaged or non-existent. Rising damp affects ground floor walls, while penetrating damp often occurs where roof tiles are damaged or mortar between bricks has deteriorated. In properties near the River Test or in low-lying areas, we also check for signs of past flooding or water ingress. Many properties in SO40, particularly those built before 1900, were constructed without modern damp proof courses, making them more susceptible to moisture penetration over time.

Roof conditions are another major area of concern in SO40. Many properties in the area have roofs that are decades old, and while tiled roofs in this region generally last well, age can lead to cracked tiles, slipped tiles, and deteriorating ridge tiles. Our surveyors inspect roof spaces where accessible, checking for signs of leakage, inadequate insulation, and timber decay. In properties with flat roofs, we pay particular attention to the condition of the covering and any signs of ponding water. Given the number of period properties in the area, including Victorian and Edwardian homes, we often find that original roof structures have been subject to multiple repairs over the years, and our survey can assess whether these repairs are adequate and whether the roof will require further attention in the near future.

Electrical safety is also a key focus, as many older properties in the area still have original wiring that may not meet current standards or cope with modern electrical demands. We inspect the consumer unit, wiring condition where visible, and socket outlets, noting any areas of concern. Many properties in SO40, particularly those that have not been updated in recent years, may have older fuse boxes rather than modern consumer units with RCD protection, which is an important safety consideration. Our report will highlight any electrical issues that require attention from a qualified electrician and recommend further investigation where necessary.

Structural issues, while less common, do appear in our surveys. This can include cracking in walls caused by settlement or ground movement, uneven floors indicating possible subsidence or beam deterioration, and issues with door and window frames that no longer close properly. In properties with extensions or modifications, we check whether the work appears to have been carried out with appropriate building regulation approval. The report highlights any concerns and recommends further investigation by a structural engineer where necessary, giving you the information needed to proceed with confidence or renegotiate the purchase price. Properties in parts of SO40 with clay soils may be more susceptible to subsidence and movement, and our surveyors are alert to the signs of this type of structural concern.