RICS Level 2 Survey in Milford on Sea SO41 0

The RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. Our surveyors examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, and windows, assessing the overall condition and identifying any defects that meet the RICS criteria for reporting. The survey covers both the interior and exterior of the property, giving you a complete picture of its current state. Unlike a basic mortgage valuation, this survey focuses specifically on the condition of the building and what repairs or maintenance might be needed now or in the near future. We check behind furniture where accessible and look inside cupboards, but we won't move heavy items or disturb stored belongings.

During the inspection, our surveyor will open accessible hatches and look inside cupboards where safe to do so. They will assess the condition of the services (gas, electric, water, and drainage) but won't carry out invasive testing. The resulting report includes a clear condition rating system: Condition Rating 1 (no repair needed), Condition Rating 2 (repairs needed but not urgent), and Condition Rating 3 (urgent repairs required). This straightforward system makes it easy to prioritises any work that needs doing. Each section of the report includes colour-coded ratings so you can quickly see which areas require attention.

For properties in SO41 0, our inspectors pay particular attention to issues that commonly affect homes in this coastal area. The proximity to the sea means salt exposure can accelerate wear on external finishes, and the New Forest geology can influence foundation conditions. We also check for signs of damp, which is a frequent concern in older properties throughout the Milford on Sea area, particularly in properties that may have solid floors rather than modern damp-proof courses. Our surveyors are experienced in identifying both obvious signs of damp and subtle indicators that might suggest underlying moisture issues, such as discoloured paintwork, peeling wallpaper, or musty odours.

• External walls, foundations, and damp proof course
• Roof structure, coverings, and chimney condition
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Floor structures and screeds
• Bathrooms and kitchen fittings
• Building services (visual inspection)
• Ventilation and insulation
• Boundaries and outbuildings

Our experience surveying properties throughout the Milford on Sea area means we know which issues are most frequently encountered. Properties in SO41 0 often show signs of damp, particularly in older homes with solid walls rather than cavity wall construction. The coastal humidity and proximity to groundwater in parts of the area can exacerbate damp problems. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify both obvious signs of damp and less apparent indicators that might suggest underlying moisture issues. We've found that properties in low-lying areas near the sea are particularly susceptible to rising damp, especially where the original damp proof course has failed or was never installed.

Roof condition is another common finding in our SO41 0 surveys. Many properties in the area have older roof coverings that may be reaching the end of their serviceable life. We inspect the roof structure, check for missing or damaged tiles, and assess the condition of flat roof sections where applicable. Given the exposure to coastal weather, lead flashing and mortar on properties in SO41 0 can deteriorate faster than in more sheltered locations, leading to potential water ingress. We often find that tiles on south-facing roof slopes have suffered from salt erosion, making them more brittle and prone to cracking.

Electrical safety is also a key consideration. Properties built before the 1990s may have outdated electrical installations that don't meet current regulations. Our survey includes a visual inspection of the consumer unit, wiring visible in accessible areas, and switches and sockets. While we don't carry out invasive electrical testing, we will recommend a qualified electrician if we observe anything that gives cause for concern. The same applies to gas safety - we visually check the gas meter and pipework but always recommend a Gas Safe registered engineer for a full safety check. Many older properties in SO41 0 still have original consumer units with older-style fuses rather than modern RCBO protection.

The New Forest geology, which underlies much of the SO41 0 area, can sometimes present challenges for property foundations. While not as severe as in some other parts of the country, areas with clay soils can be prone to shrink-swell movement, particularly during periods of extreme weather. Our surveyors are trained to look for signs of subsidence or movement, such as cracks in walls, sticking doors or windows, and uneven floor levels. If we identify any concerns, we'll recommend further investigation by a structural engineer before you proceed with your purchase.