Professional Home Buyer Survey from Chartered Surveyors








Purchasing a property in St Ishmael's, a beautiful coastal village in Pembrokeshire, is an exciting step. Our chartered surveyors provide thorough RICS Level 2 surveys to help you understand exactly what you're buying before you commit. This survey type, previously known as the HomeBuyer Report, gives you a detailed assessment of the property's condition with clear ratings so you can make an informed decision. Whether you've found a detached home near the village centre, a period property along the coast road, or a modern house in a small development, our inspectors bring local knowledge and technical expertise to every inspection.
We examine the property from roof to foundations, identifying defects that might not be visible during a casual viewing. Our team has surveyed hundreds of properties throughout Pembrokeshire, giving us insight into the common issues affecting homes in this coastal area. From detecting early signs of damp in period cottages to identifying roof repairs needed on exposed detached properties, we help you avoid costly surprises after completion.

£268,917
Average House Price
18
Properties Sold (12 months)
£400,000
Most Expensive Sold
+2%
Price Change (12 months)
The RICS Level 2 survey is specifically designed for properties in conventional condition. Our inspectors conduct a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, examining the walls, floors, ceilings, roof space, and permanent fixtures. We assess the condition of each element and rate them using a clear traffic light system - red for urgent repairs needed, amber for defects requiring attention, and green for satisfactory condition. This systematic approach makes it simple to prioritise any work needed after moving in.
In addition to the structural elements, we check the condition of critical systems including the electrical installation, heating system, and plumbing where visible. Our surveyors will lift accessible trapdoors to inspect roof voids, examine the exterior walls for signs of movement or deterioration, and assess outbuildings and boundaries. The report includes clear photographs and descriptions of all findings, making it easy for you to understand exactly what condition the property is in. We also check the condition of windows, doors, chimneys, and any integrated furniture.
For properties in St Ishmael's, where detached houses make up around 63% of transactions, the survey provides valuable insight into the condition of these often larger homes. The Level 2 survey is particularly useful for properties over 50 years old, where age-related issues such as deteriorating roof coverings, outdated electrical systems, or worn-out windows are more likely to be present. Our inspectors are familiar with the types of properties common in this area and know what to look for.
The report also includes an Estimated Costs Summary, giving you a rough idea of what repairs might cost. This is invaluable for budgeting purposes and for negotiating with the seller. Whether it's budgeting for a new boiler, accounting for re-pointing work, or planning for window replacements, having these cost estimates upfront helps you make informed financial decisions about your purchase.
Based on last 12 months sales data
Choose your preferred date and time for the survey through our online booking system or by calling our team directly. We'll confirm the appointment within hours and send you detailed preparation instructions to help you get ready for the inspection. This includes advice on ensuring access to all areas of the property and suggestions for what to have ready for the surveyor.
Our chartered surveyor visits the property and conducts a thorough visual inspection following RICS guidelines. This typically takes 2-4 hours depending on the property size and complexity. For a typical three-bedroom detached house in St Ishmael's, the inspection usually takes around 2-3 hours. You can accompany the inspector if you wish and ask questions during the visit - we encourage buyers to attend as it helps you understand the property better.
Your detailed RICS Level 2 report arrives within 5 working days of the inspection. The report includes clear condition ratings, colour-coded photos, and practical recommendations for any issues found. We also provide an estimated costs summary to help with budgeting and negotiation. Should you have any questions about your report, our team is here to help explain any technical findings.
The St Ishmael's property market has seen steady growth, with prices increasing by around 2% in the SA62 3SR postcode area over the past year. With an average sale price approaching £270,000 and detached properties averaging over £290,000, getting a professional survey is a smart investment in protecting your significant financial commitment. When you're spending this much on a property, understanding its true condition is essential.
Our Level 2 surveys help you avoid costly surprises after completion. Whether you've agreed to pay £150,000 for a terraced cottage or £400,000 for a premium detached house, understanding the true condition of the property allows you to negotiate with confidence. Many buyers in St Ishmael's have used our survey findings to secure repairs or price reductions from sellers. The cost of a survey is small relative to the potential savings it can unlock.
The coastal location of St Ishmael's means properties here face unique considerations. Exposed positions can lead to accelerated weathering of external finishes, while the salt air can accelerate corrosion of metal elements. Our surveyors know to check for these area-specific issues, giving you a more thorough assessment than a generic survey would provide.

If you're purchasing a property in St Ishmael's that is either very old, appears to be in poor condition, has been extensively renovated, or is a non-standard construction, we may recommend a RICS Level 3 Survey instead. This more comprehensive survey provides additional detail for complex properties and includes opening up areas where necessary to assess hidden defects.
Your RICS Level 2 report is structured to give you all the information you need in a clear, easy-to-understand format. The report begins with a property summary including details about the construction, age, and type, followed by the surveyor's overall opinion of the property. The main body of the report is organised by element - from the roof down to the foundations - with each section given a condition rating. This logical structure makes it easy to find the information you need quickly.
The traffic light rating system makes it simple to prioritise any work needed. A red rating indicates serious issues that require urgent attention, while amber highlights defects that should be attended to eventually. Green ratings mean the element is in satisfactory condition. Our reports also include an Estimated Costs Summary, giving you a rough idea of what repairs might cost, which is invaluable for budgeting and negotiation purposes. This helps you plan for future expenditure and negotiate with sellers if issues are identified.
Should you have any questions about your report, our team is here to help. We can explain any technical terms, discuss the implications of our findings, and advise on the next steps. For properties in St Ishmael's, where the housing stock includes a mix of older and newer builds, this post-report support is particularly valuable in helping you understand what you're taking on. Whether you need advice on chasing up issues with the seller or guidance on who to contact for specialist repairs, we're here to help.
All our surveyors are fully qualified members of RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) and have extensive experience inspecting properties throughout Pembrokeshire, including St Ishmael's and the surrounding villages. They understand the local housing market and the types of issues commonly found in properties in this area. Our team has built up detailed knowledge of the various property types and construction methods used in coastal Pembrokeshire.
Our team combines technical expertise with practical, plain-English reporting. We believe you should be able to understand your survey report without needing a degree in construction. When you book your survey with Homemove, you're getting the expertise of seasoned professionals who take pride in delivering reports that truly help buyers make informed decisions. We know that buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll make, and we're committed to helping you make it with confidence.

Properties in St Ishmael's and the wider Pembrokeshire area face several common issues that our surveyors are trained to identify. The coastal environment means that properties can be exposed to salt-laden air, which can accelerate the corrosion of metal fixtures including external pipework, gutter brackets, and structural fixings. Our inspectors pay particular attention to these elements when surveying properties in exposed positions near the coast.
Many properties in the area are of traditional construction, with solid walls rather than modern cavity wall insulation. These older properties can be more susceptible to damp penetration, particularly if the original external finishes have deteriorated. Our surveyors check thoroughly for signs of damp using visual inspection and moisture meters, identifying properties where remedial work may be needed to address ventilation or drainage issues.
Roof conditions are a common finding in our surveys across Pembrokeshire. Whether it's slipped or missing tiles following winter storms, deteriorated ridge pointing, or blocked gutters, these issues can lead to water ingress if not addressed. For detached properties with larger roof areas, the inspection carefully examines all aspects including valleys, chimneys, and flat roof sections where applicable.
When our inspector arrives at your St Ishmael's property, they begin with a systematic inspection following RICS guidelines. The inspection covers the exterior of the building first, examining walls, roof coverings, gutters, and windows. The surveyor will use a ladder where safe and accessible to get a closer look at the roof and chimney. They will also inspect boundaries, outbuildings, and any integrated garages.
Inside the property, the inspector checks all rooms, measuring the size of each space and noting the construction of floors and ceilings. They will access the roof void if there is a suitable access hatch and if it is safe to do so. The condition of kitchen units, bathroom fittings, and other integrated furniture is also noted. Throughout the inspection, the surveyor takes photographs to include in your final report, ensuring you have a clear visual record of any issues identified.
Our inspectors inspect on a "best endeavours" basis, which means we inspect what is accessible and visible without moving furniture or removing fitted carpets. While we cannot lift floorboards or dismantle walls, our experienced surveyors know where to look and what signs of problems to spot. This visual inspection method is highly effective for identifying the vast majority of issues that would concern a buyer. If we identify areas requiring more detailed investigation, we will recommend appropriate specialists in our report.

A RICS Level 2 survey includes a thorough visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property including the roof, walls, floors, windows, doors, chimneys, and boundaries. We check for signs of damp, rot, structural movement, and general wear and tear. The report includes condition ratings for each element and highlights any urgent repairs needed. We also inspect outbuildings, garages, and assess the overall condition of the property's boundaries.
Most Level 2 surveys in St Ishmael's take between 2 and 4 hours depending on the property size and complexity. A typical three-bedroom detached house will take around 2-3 hours, while larger properties may require a full morning or afternoon. Properties with larger roof areas or multiple outbuildings will take longer to inspect thoroughly.
Even new build properties can benefit from a Level 2 survey. While major structural issues are unlikely, the survey can identify snagging issues, workmanship concerns, and ensure everything has been installed correctly. Our inspectors have surveyed new properties throughout Pembrokeshire and know what to look for in recently constructed homes. This can be particularly valuable for identifying defects before they become bigger problems.
Yes, we encourage buyers to attend the survey inspection. This gives you the opportunity to see any issues firsthand and ask the surveyor questions. Many clients find it helpful to walk around the property with the inspector while the survey is being carried out. You'll gain a better understanding of the property's condition and can ask about any concerns as they arise.
If our surveyor identifies serious issues, these will be clearly flagged in your report with a red condition rating. We provide recommendations for further investigation by specialists where needed, such as structural engineers or damp specialists. You can then use this information to negotiate with the seller, either for repairs to be completed before completion or for a reduction in the purchase price to account for the cost of remedial work.
RICS Level 2 survey fees in St Ishmael's typically start from around £350 for smaller properties, with the exact cost depending on the property size and type. Detached houses will be priced higher than terraced properties due to the additional time required for inspection. Request a quote for your specific property to get an accurate price. The investment is small relative to the protection it provides for your property purchase.
A RICS Level 2 survey is designed for conventional properties in reasonable condition and provides a visual inspection with condition ratings. A Level 3 survey is more comprehensive and includes opening up areas where necessary to assess hidden defects - it's better suited for older properties, large homes, or buildings with non-standard construction. For most properties in St Ishmael's, the Level 2 provides sufficient detail, but we can advise if a Level 3 would be more appropriate.
Yes, our surveyors regularly inspect properties throughout Pembrokeshire including St Ishmael's. They understand the local housing stock and the types of issues commonly found in this area, from coastal weathering to the typical defects seen in period properties. This local knowledge helps provide a more relevant and useful survey report for buyers in this area.
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Professional Home Buyer Survey from Chartered Surveyors
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Homemove is a trading name of HM Haus Group Ltd (Company No. 13873779, registered in England & Wales). Homemove Mortgages Ltd (Company No. 15947693) is an Appointed Representative of TMG Direct Limited, trading as TMG Mortgage Network, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 786245). Homemove Mortgages Ltd is entered on the FCA Register as an Appointed Representative (FRN 1022429). You can check registrations at NewRegister or by calling 0800 111 6768.