RICS Level 2 Survey in WN6 9

A RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey is specifically designed for properties in reasonable condition that are built with standard construction methods. This includes the many semi-detached and terraced houses found throughout the WN6 9 area. Our survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, examining the condition of the roof, walls, floors, doors, windows, and important fixtures like bathrooms and kitchens. We also check the integrity of the property's structure, looking for signs of movement, subsidence, or structural weakness that could affect the building's long-term stability.

The survey report we produce for your WN6 9 property will highlight any defects or potential problems that could affect the value or safety of the home. This includes checking for signs of damp, structural movement, issues with the foundations, and the condition of the electrical and plumbing systems where visible. Our inspectors pay particular attention to areas that are prone to problems in local properties, such as the condition of slate roofs on period homes and the state of render on older brickwork. We also assess the condition of outbuildings, boundaries, and the general maintenance of the property.

One of the key benefits of choosing a RICS Level 2 survey is the traffic light rating system we use in our reports. Each element of the property is rated as either green (no action needed), amber (repairs or monitoring required), or red (urgent attention needed). This makes it easy for you to understand which issues are most critical and to prioritise any negotiations with the seller accordingly. The report also includes an overall opinion of the property's condition and a market valuation if required, giving you a complete picture before you commit to your purchase.

Our surveyors will inspect the roof from both inside and outside where accessible, checking the condition of tiles or slates, flashings, and the overall structure. We examine walls for cracks, signs of damp, and the condition of any render or pointing. Windows and doors are checked for operation and condition, including double glazing seals. We also inspect the condition of the property's services, looking at the electrical consumer unit, plumbing connections, and heating system where visible.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Damp and timber assessment
• Electrical and plumbing visible work
• Outbuildings and boundaries
• Services and utilities

The housing stock in WN6 9 reflects the area's industrial heritage and subsequent development phases. Many of the older properties, particularly those in areas like Wigan town centre and the surrounding terraced streets, were constructed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries using traditional red brick with sandstone decorative features. These properties often feature solid walls rather than cavity walls, which can be more susceptible to damp penetration if not properly maintained. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing these traditional construction methods and understanding the specific issues that can affect them.

Slate roofs are common on period properties throughout the WN6 9 area, and while slate is a durable material, roofs of this age will inevitably require attention over time. We regularly find slipped or broken slates, deteriorating mortar ridges, and issues with lead flashings on these older properties. The condition of the roof is one of the most important factors we assess, as roof repairs can be costly and water penetration can lead to significant internal damage if not addressed promptly.

More recent construction in the area, including developments from the latter half of the 20th century, typically uses cavity wall construction with concrete tiles. These properties generally require different inspection approaches, and our surveyors understand how to assess the condition of modern building materials and construction techniques. Whether your property is a Victorian terrace on Almond Street or a 1970s semi-detached house on Preston Road, we have the expertise to provide a thorough and accurate assessment.

When you receive your RICS Level 2 survey report for your WN6 9 property, you'll find it structured in a clear, easy-to-understand format. The report begins with an executive summary that highlights the most important findings, followed by detailed sections covering each area of the property. We include photographs to illustrate key defects and provide clear recommendations for any necessary remedial work. The summary is particularly useful if you need to quickly communicate the main findings to family members or partners who may be involved in the purchase decision.

For properties in the WN6 9 area that are over 50 years old, which represents a significant portion of the local housing stock, the survey is particularly valuable. Older properties often have hidden issues that aren't apparent during a casual viewing, such as older electrical wiring, aging roof structures, or potential issues with damp penetration. Our survey will bring these to light before you complete your purchase, giving you the opportunity to address them with the seller or decide whether the property is right for you. We have found everything from outdated electrical installations in properties dating back to the 1960s to significant structural issues in older Victorian properties.

The cost of a RICS Level 2 survey in the WN6 9 area typically ranges from £450 to £800 depending on the property type, size, and value. While this represents an upfront cost, it can save you thousands of pounds in unexpected repair bills or provide valuable leverage in price negotiations with sellers. Given that the average property price in WN6 9 is over £290,000, the survey cost is a small percentage of the overall investment that can provide significant protection and . Many buyers have found that survey discoveries have saved them substantial sums in renegotiated purchase prices.

If you're purchasing a property that is a listed building or falls within a conservation area, that these may require additional specialist attention. While a Level 2 survey can still be appropriate, our surveyors will advise if a more comprehensive RICS Level 3 Building Survey might be more suitable for older or more complex properties. The wider Wigan borough contains 286 listed buildings, with 31 at Grade II*, and the nearby areas of Shevington and Standish also have several listed properties. If your target property has listed status, let us know when booking so we can ensure the right survey type is provided.

Based on our extensive experience surveying properties throughout the WN6 9 area, we have identified several recurring defect patterns that buyers should be aware of. Damp issues are particularly common in the older solid-wall properties found throughout this postcode sector, where rising damp and penetrating damp can affect walls if proper damp proof courses are missing or have failed. We often find evidence of past damp treatment that may not have been properly maintained or may have been applied incorrectly.

Roof defects are another frequent finding in our WN6 9 surveys. Many properties in this area have aging slate roofs that will have endured decades of Manchester weather. We commonly find broken or slipped slates, deteriorating mortar pointing, and issues with lead flashings around chimneys and valleys. These defects can allow water penetration that leads to internal damage and timber decay if not addressed. Our surveyors are experienced at assessing the remaining lifespan of slate roofs and can advise on likely maintenance requirements.

Structural movement, particularly in the form of settlement cracks, is also seen in some WN6 9 properties. While some minor cracking is common in older properties and may be historic, our surveyors are trained to distinguish between harmless settlement and more serious structural issues that might require further investigation. We will carefully examine walls, especially around door and window openings, to assess the nature and cause of any cracking observed.