RICS Level 2 Survey in Trafford

A RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of a property. Our inspectors examine the walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows, as well as the roof space (where safe and accessible), the exterior of the building, and key fixtures like bathrooms and kitchens. The survey uses a simple traffic light system to rate each element: green for no issues, amber for defects requiring attention, and red for serious issues that need urgent repair. This system makes it easy for buyers to quickly identify which areas need immediate attention and which can be addressed over time.

In Trafford's diverse housing stock, this comprehensive approach is particularly valuable. The borough contains everything from Victorian and Edwardian terraced properties in areas like Stretford and Old Trafford to modern detached homes in Bowdon and Hale, plus numerous new build apartments from developments such as Trafford Gardens and X1 Trafford Waters. Each property type brings its own typical defects, and our surveyors know exactly what to look for in each case. For example, Victorian terraces often have older roof structures and original windows that may need attention, while newer apartments might have snagging issues specific to modern construction methods.

The Level 2 survey also includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost, which proves useful if you need to arrange buildings insurance or if the survey reveals issues that might affect the property's value. Our report gives you the information you need to negotiate with the seller, request repairs, or even reconsider the purchase if significant problems are uncovered. Many buyers in Trafford have used our survey findings to negotiate price reductions or include provisions for necessary repairs in their offer.

It is important to understand what a Level 2 survey does not cover. The survey is visual only and does not involve opening up walls, crawling into inaccessible voids, or commissioning structural calculations. If our surveyor identifies potential concerns that require deeper investigation, we will recommend a follow-up RICS Level 3 Building Survey or consultation with a structural engineer. This honesty and transparency is part of our commitment to providing you with genuinely useful information.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Traffic light ratings for condition
• Market valuation and rebuild cost
• Advice on repairs and maintenance

Trafford is experiencing significant residential growth, with several major developments adding new homes to the borough. The Trafford Gardens development on Talbot Road in Stretford offers 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments from the Linear Group, while the joint venture between Trafford Council and L&Q at Bold Street in Old Trafford is delivering 147 new homes, with half designated as affordable housing. These developments are transforming the borough and providing homes for the thousands of workers employed by the major companies based in the area.

Further developments include Latimer by Clarion Housing Group at Brian Statham Way in Old Trafford, offering properties ranging from 1 to 4 bedrooms, and X1 Trafford Waters near the Trafford Centre, which provides 1 and 2-bedroom apartments. The Trafford Council development arm is also delivering new homes through projects including Williams Row, The Courts, Lacy Street, and Ortus Gardens across the borough. For buyers considering these new build properties, understanding the specific construction details and build quality becomes essential.

Looking to the future, the Trafford Wharfside masterplan envisions up to 5,000 new homes in the area, which could generate 92,000 new jobs and contribute significantly to the UK economy. This ambitious development will further transform the borough and make it an even more attractive location for property buyers. Our surveyors can assess these modern developments and identify any issues that may not be immediately apparent to the untrained eye, ensuring your investment in one of Trafford's new communities is sound.

When surveying new build properties, our inspectors pay particular attention to window seals, balcony constructions, waterproofing in wet rooms, and the quality of finishings that may not be covered by building regulations inspections. We have found that even brand new properties can have defects that builders should rectify before the warranty period expires. Our detailed reports give you the evidence you need to request corrections from the developer.