RICS Level 2 Survey Wigan

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's accessible areas, focusing on visible defects and issues that could impact the property's value or require future investment. We examine the roof structure, walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, as well as the condition of plumbing, electrical installations, and damp-proofing measures. Each survey includes a detailed assessment of any urgent defects that require immediate attention, along with recommendations for further investigations where necessary.

The survey report uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element inspected. Green indicates no issues requiring attention, amber highlights defects that need repairing but are not urgent, and red flags issues that are serious or require urgent attention. This straightforward approach helps you understand exactly what you're purchasing and enables you to make informed decisions about proceeding with the transaction or negotiating repairs with the seller.

Given Wigan's substantial housing stock from the Victorian and Edwardian periods, our inspectors pay particular attention to common issues found in older properties. This includes assessing the condition of original features, checking for signs of damp penetration in solid-wall construction, and evaluating outdated electrical wiring that may not meet current regulations. We also examine roofing conditions, as many older properties still retain their original slate or tile roofs, which may require maintenance or replacement.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and timber decay
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing and drainage
• Windows and doors
• Floors and ceilings

Wigan continues to expand with several new housing developments across the borough. The Avenue development by Bellway off Warrington Road in Goose Green offers 3 and 4-bedroom homes from approximately £219,995. David Wilson Homes is building at Winstanley Park on Winstanley Road, with 3, 4, and 5-bedroom properties available from around £289,995. Keepmoat Homes' Hawksley Place development offers more affordable options with 2, 3, and 4-bedroom homes from just £179,995. These developments reflect Wigan's growing appeal as a place to buy, particularly for families seeking modern homes with good transport links to Manchester and Liverpool.

Even new build properties benefit from a Level 2 Survey. While brand new homes may have fewer structural issues, our inspection can identify defects in finishes, snagging issues, and ensure that building regulations have been properly met. Our surveyors check the quality of construction, fixtures, and fittings, giving you confidence in your new home purchase. For newly built properties, we pay particular attention to windows, doors, damp-proofing membranes, and the integrity of recently installed roofing. The 5-year warranty provided by NHBC or other providers does not replace the need for an independent survey, as warranty inspectors may not identify all defects.

Wigan's regeneration projects are also bringing new apartments and townhouses to the town centre area. If you're considering a new build flat or apartment, our survey can assess the condition of shared areas, the building's external envelope, and any potential issues with sound insulation or fire safety that may not be immediately apparent to buyers.

Our experience surveying properties across Wigan means we know exactly what to look for. Damp issues are particularly prevalent in the borough's older housing stock. Victorian and Edwardian properties often lack modern damp-proof courses, and the solid wall construction common in these homes can allow moisture to penetrate. Our inspectors check for rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation, identifying affected areas and recommending appropriate remediation. Properties in areas like Swinley, Whitley, and the historic town centre are particularly susceptible due to the age of the housing stock and the prevalence of solid-wall construction.

Roofing problems feature prominently in our survey findings. Many Wigan properties retain their original slate or tile roofs, which, while durable, eventually require attention. We inspect for broken or slipped tiles, deteriorated pointing, damaged flashing, and issues with gutters and downpipes. In properties over 50 years old, we pay extra attention to the condition of roof timbers, looking for signs of woodworm or rot that can compromise structural integrity. The mix of Victorian-era slate roofs and post-war concrete tiles means our surveyors must be familiar with multiple roofing systems common in the area.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older Wigan properties frequently require updating. Homes built before the 1980s may have rubber or lead-sheathed electrical cables that no longer meet current safety standards. Similarly, galvanised steel or lead pipework is common in older properties and may need replacement. Our survey reports highlight these concerns and recommend that a qualified electrician or plumber inspect these systems before completion. This is particularly important for buyers in the 30.2% of Wigan's housing stock that consists of terraced houses, many of which date from the Victorian period.

Wigan's position near the River Douglas also means that flood risk is a consideration for some properties. While not as prevalent as in coastal areas, properties in low-lying parts of the borough near watercourses can be at risk of surface water flooding during heavy rainfall. Our surveyors note any signs of previous flooding or water damage and can advise on appropriate investigations or insurance considerations for affected properties.

Understanding Wigan's housing landscape helps explain why surveys are so valuable in this area. With a population of 329,300 across 139,300 households, Wigan is one of the largest boroughs in Greater Manchester. The housing mix reflects its industrial heritage, with terraced houses comprising 30.2% of properties, semi-detached homes at 36.3%, detached houses at 20.3%, and flats at 12.8%. This means the majority of properties in Wigan are over 50 years old, with substantial numbers built during the Victorian and Edwardian periods when the borough was a major centre of coal mining and textile manufacturing.

The local economy plays a significant role in the housing market. Wigan serves as a logistics hub due to its strategic motorway links, with major distribution centres employing thousands of residents. Manufacturing, retail, and public sector employment (including the NHS and local government) are also major employers. Ongoing regeneration projects in the town centre aim to boost economic growth and attract investment, which could influence property values and demand in coming years. Buyers should be aware of these local economic factors when purchasing property in Wigan.

Wigan contains several conservation areas, including the Wigan Town Centre Conservation Area, which protects the historic character of the town centre. The borough also has numerous listed buildings, ranging from Grade I to Grade II listed status, including historic churches, civic buildings, and residential properties. If you're purchasing a property within a conservation area or a listed building, a standard Level 2 Survey may not be sufficient to identify all potential issues. The additional restrictions on alterations and the unique construction methods used in historic properties require specialist knowledge that a Level 3 Building Survey can provide.

Older properties in Wigan's conservation areas often have traditional construction methods that require specialist knowledge to assess properly. Original features such as sash windows, decorative plasterwork, and traditional brickwork all require specific expertise to evaluate. Our team understands the requirements for heritage properties and can advise whether a Level 3 Building Survey or a specialist heritage survey would be more appropriate for your purchase. We can also identify any conservation area restrictions that may affect your plans for the property after purchase.