RICS Level 2 Survey in St. Fagans

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property you are considering buying in St. Fagans. The surveyor will examine the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows, as well as the roof space and visible foundations. We check the condition of the building's structure, looking for signs of subsidence, damp penetration, or structural movement that could indicate underlying problems. In St. Fagans, where we see a mix of modern Barratt Homes properties on Llantrisant Road alongside older residential stock, this visual inspection is particularly valuable for identifying issues that may not be apparent during a casual viewing.

The RICS Level 2 survey also includes assessments of the property's services, including the electrical system, gas supply (if applicable), and plumbing. Our inspectors test a sample of switches and sockets, check the condition of the consumer unit, and note any obvious signs of outdated wiring that might require attention from a qualified electrician. Many properties in St. Fagans were constructed during different periods of housing development, meaning the electrical systems may range from modern installations in new builds to older wiring in properties that have not been updated for decades. Understanding the condition of these essential services is crucial for budgeting any necessary upgrades or repairs after you move in.

We also evaluate the condition of the roof, including its covering, flashing, and any chimneys or vent pipes. For properties in St. Fagans with pitched roofs, our surveyor will attempt to access the roof space where it is safe to do so, checking for signs of water ingress, missing tiles, or deteriorated insulation. Flat roofs, where present, receive particular attention as these are common sources of leaks in both modern and older properties. The survey will clearly flag any areas of concern, categorising issues by their severity so you understand exactly what work might be needed. In the CF5 6 area, where semi-detached and terraced properties are common, roof condition is particularly important as shared roof structures can affect multiple properties.

Our inspection extends to the external areas of the property, including boundaries, garages, and any outbuildings. We note the condition of fences, gates, and retaining walls, which are particularly relevant for properties in St. Fagans with larger gardens. We also check the condition of driveways and paths, looking for signs of subsidence or drainage issues that could indicate underlying problems with the ground conditions.

• Wall condition and structural integrity
• Roof condition and insulation
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical and gas services
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Foundations and ground floor condition
• Boundary walls and outbuildings

Your RICS Level 2 survey report follows a standardised format that makes it easy to understand the condition of the property you are buying in St. Fagans. The report is divided into clear sections covering each major element of the property, from the roof and walls to the plumbing and electrical systems. Each section receives a condition rating from one to three, with one being the best condition and three indicating serious defects that require urgent attention. This rating system was introduced by RICS to help buyers quickly identify the most significant issues and prioritise any remedial work needed.

The report also includes an Overall Opinion section where our surveyor provides a summary of the property's condition and notes any particular concerns that might affect your decision to proceed with the purchase. For properties in the CF5 6DW postcode area, where average values exceed £660,000, this overall assessment helps high-value purchases proceed with confidence. The report will clearly state whether our surveyor recommends any further specialist investigations, such as a structural engineer's inspection or testing for Japanese knotweed. This recommendation system ensures you are aware of any issues that require expert attention beyond the visual inspection.

One of the key benefits of the RICS Level 2 survey is the Market Value section, which provides an independent valuation of the property alongside the condition assessment. This valuation is particularly useful if you require a mortgage, as lenders often want assurance that the property represents suitable security for the loan. Our surveyor will compare the property against recent sales in the St. Fagans area, including data from the CF5 6 postcode where around 114-115 properties sold in the last twelve months, to arrive at an accurate market value. This comparative analysis takes into account the local market conditions and recent price trends in the area.

The report also includes a section on legal considerations that your solicitor should be aware of, including any potential issues with boundaries, rights of way, or planning permissions. While our surveyors are not legal experts, we flag any observations that may require further investigation by your legal representative. This holistic approach ensures you have a complete picture of the property before committing to your purchase in St. Fagans.

Our experience surveying properties in St. Fagans means we know what to look for in the local housing stock. Modern properties on developments like Afon Las typically have fewer structural issues but may have minor defects related to build quality and finish. These can include poorly sealed windows, minor cracks in plasterwork, or issues with bathroom fittings that fall under the snagging category. Our survey will identify these issues so you can request the developer addresses them before your warranty period expires.

For older properties in St. Fagans, particularly those built before the 1970s, we frequently encounter issues related to outdated electrical systems. Many older homes still have original wiring that may not meet current regulations and could require complete rewire. We also commonly find damp issues, particularly in properties with solid walls or those lacking adequate ventilation. Roof conditions are another frequent concern, with older properties often requiring tile replacement or repair to flashing around chimneys.

In the CF5 6 area, we also see properties with concrete foundations or those built on ground that may be susceptible to movement. While significant subsidence is not common in this area, our surveyors are trained to identify early signs of foundation movement, including cracks in walls and doors that stick or do not close properly. Identifying these issues early can prevent more serious problems down the line and give you negotiating power when completing your purchase.