RICS Level 2 Survey in Tenby

The RICS Level 2 HomeBuyers Survey is designed for properties in reasonable condition, including houses, bungalows, and flats. Our inspectors examine the accessible parts of the property visually, identifying defects that may affect value or require attention. We assess the main structural elements including walls, roofs, foundations, and floors, looking for signs of movement, deterioration, or potential problems that might require specialist investigation. The survey follows RICS standards and provides a consistent approach that allows comparison across different property types.

In Tenby's older properties, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues such as rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation problems that frequently affect Georgian and Victorian buildings. With many properties in the town dating back to the 13th century medieval period and later Georgian era, these buildings often have solid walls without cavity insulation, making them more susceptible to damp penetration. We use our expertise to identify the type and cause of any dampness, whether it's rising damp from the ground, penetrating damp from damaged roof coverings or render, or condensation from inadequate ventilation.

We check roof conditions thoroughly, examining tiles, flashing, and gutters for damage or wear. For properties in Tenby, this includes assessing the condition of slate and tile roofs common on period buildings, checking for missing or cracked tiles that could lead to leaks, and examining flat roofs on extensions and modern apartments. Our inspection covers windows and doors, stairs and railings, chimneys and flues, and damp proof courses where visible. We also assess the condition of services including plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating systems, noting any areas that require updating or professional attention from qualified tradespersons.

The survey includes a clear traffic light rating system that highlights defects by severity. Red rated issues require urgent attention, amber items should be investigated further, and green ratings indicate areas in satisfactory condition. We provide practical advice on remediation options and estimated costs, helping you negotiate with sellers or plan for future maintenance. Our report also includes a thorough review of the property's energy efficiency and environmental considerations relevant to Tenby's coastal location, including observations on insulation levels and potential for improvement.

• Structural assessment
• Roof and chimney inspection
• Damp and timber analysis
• Electrical and plumbing review
• Energy efficiency rating
• Flood risk evaluation

Tenby's housing stock is remarkably diverse, ranging from medieval properties within the historic town walls to modern apartments and new build lodges. This variety means every property presents unique considerations. The town's Georgian townhouses, while visually stunning, often conceal age-related issues such as outdated electrical systems, original plumbing that may need replacement, and damp problems resulting from traditional solid-wall construction methods. Our Level 2 survey identifies these issues before they become expensive surprises, giving you leverage in negotiations or helping you walk away from a problematic purchase.

The coastal environment poses specific challenges for property owners in Tenby. Salt air can accelerate corrosion of metalwork and deterioration of certain building materials. Properties near the seafront may show signs of coastal erosion affecting foundations or structural integrity over time. Our surveyors know to look for these area-specific issues and can recommend appropriate specialist assessments when necessary. With the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park surrounding the town, many properties also fall within conservation areas, adding another layer of consideration for potential buyers.

Recent market activity shows 111 residential property sales in the SA70 postcode over the past year, with prices showing modest growth of around 0.45-0.66%. The average price paid sits around £278,000, though this varies significantly by property type. Given these investments, a thorough survey provides essential protection for buyers. Properties at developments like the new Brynhir housing development will have different considerations compared to period properties in the old town, and our local knowledge helps identify the right issues for each property type. The Brynhir development, delivering 125 new homes from late 2025, represents the newest addition to Tenby's housing stock.

Tenby's tourism-driven economy means many properties are used as holiday lets or second homes. This can affect maintenance standards and may introduce specific issues our surveyors are trained to identify. We assess properties with this in mind, noting where rental usage might have impacted condition or where future letting considerations might affect your plans. Our detailed report helps you understand the true condition of whatever property you're considering, whether it's a permanent home, holiday retreat, or investment property. Properties that have been subject to heavy rental use may show accelerated wear on fixtures, fittings, and decorative finishes.

With a significant proportion of Tenby's properties built before 1919, including medieval and Georgian buildings, the need for professional surveys is particularly important. These older properties often have traditional construction methods that differ significantly from modern buildings, and our surveyors understand the specific issues that affect them. From solid brick walls without damp proof courses to original timber frame elements hidden behind modern finishes, we know what to look for and can advise on appropriate next steps when concerns are identified.