RICS Level 2 Survey in WD6

Our RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our surveyors examine the walls, roof, floors, doors and windows, checking for signs of defects, decay or damage that could affect the value or safety of the property. The survey includes an assessment of the property's overall condition and highlights any areas requiring immediate attention or further investigation by specialists. Each report includes clear ratings for each section of the property, making it easy to understand the severity of any issues found.

In WD6, where approximately 80% of properties were built before 1980, our inspectors pay particular attention to common age-related defects. The survey covers structural elements including foundations, walls, floors and the roof structure. We inspect for signs of subsidence or movement, which is particularly relevant given the London Clay geology prevalent in this area. Our surveyors also assess the condition of joinery, finishes and fittings, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the property's current state. We have found that properties in Borehamwood's older residential streets often share similar construction methods and defect patterns, allowing us to provide highly accurate assessments.

The Level 2 survey includes an Energy Efficiency Rating assessment, giving you insight into the property's likely running costs and environmental impact. We check the type and condition of insulation, heating systems and windows, flagging any areas where improvements could be made. For properties in WD6, where many homes were built before modern energy efficiency standards were introduced, this section often reveals opportunities to upgrade the property and reduce future energy bills. Properties with solid wall construction, common in buildings pre-1930s, typically score lower on energy efficiency and our surveyors can advise on potential improvement options.

Our surveyors also provide an overview of services, examining the condition of electrical wiring, plumbing and heating systems visible during the inspection. We cannot test hidden pipework or wiring, but we can identify obvious defects, outdated installations and potential safety concerns. In WD6, where a significant proportion of housing dates from the mid-20th century, we frequently encounter electrical installations and plumbing that would benefit from upgrading to meet current regulations.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and coverings
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Energy efficiency rating

The geology of WD6 presents specific challenges that our surveyors are trained to identify. The predominant London Clay soil creates shrink-swell potential, meaning properties can be susceptible to subsidence or heave during periods of extreme wet or dry weather. Our inspectors look for signs of ground movement, including cracks in walls, doors that stick and uneven floors. Properties in areas close to the River Colne and its tributaries may also have a higher risk of fluvial flooding, while certain low-lying areas face surface water flooding risks during heavy rainfall. The Borough of Hertsmere has identified several areas within WD6 where surface water flooding poses a particular risk during heavy storms.

Damp problems are frequently encountered in WD6 properties, particularly those built before modern building regulations. Rising damp affects many older properties where the original damp-proof course has failed or was never installed. Penetrating damp often occurs where external brickwork has deteriorated or where pointing has failed. Our surveyors use visual inspection techniques to identify damp stains, salt efflorescence and mould growth that indicate moisture problems. In properties with solid wall construction, common in buildings pre-1930s, damp can be a particular issue due to the lack of a cavity to prevent moisture penetration. Many properties in Elstree Village and the older parts of Borehamwood fall into this category, and our surveyors know exactly what to look for.

Roof condition is another key area of focus for our inspectors in WD6. Many properties in this area feature traditional pitched roofs with slate or tile coverings that, while durable, require regular maintenance. Our surveyors check for slipped tiles, damaged ridges, failed leadwork around chimneys and deteriorating flat roof coverings. In older properties, the roof structure itself may show signs of rot or insect damage to timber rafters and purlins. Given that approximately 40% of WD6 housing was built between 1945 and 1980, roof coverings on these properties are now reaching an age where replacement or significant repair may be needed. We have inspected numerous properties on roads such as Shenley Road, Bullpond Lane and Stapleton Road where roof work has become a pressing concern.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older WD6 properties often require upgrading to meet current safety standards. Properties built before the 1980s frequently have electrical installations that do not comply with modern requirements, including older fuse boards with rewireable fuses, lack of earthing and insufficient socket outlets. Similarly, lead or galvanised steel pipes, common in properties built before the 1970s, may be reaching the end of their service life and could affect water quality. Our surveyors note these issues and recommend further investigation by qualified electricians and plumbers where necessary. We have found that properties in the 1930s semi-detached developments around Furzehill Road and Croxdale Road frequently have original electrical systems that would benefit from complete rewiring.

The housing stock in WD6 reflects its development history, with detached properties comprising approximately 30% of the housing, semi-detached at 35%, terraced at 20% and flats at 15%. This mix creates varied survey requirements, as each property type presents different potential issues. Detached properties often have more complex roof structures and external walls, while flats share structural elements with neighbouring properties. Our surveyors understand these differences and tailor their inspection approach accordingly. We have extensive experience surveying the different property types across Borehamwood, from the Victorian and Edwardian terraces near the railway station to the 1960s flat developments near The Bull pub.