RICS Level 2 Survey in Catton

A RICS Level 2 survey suits properties in reasonable condition, and it gives a full visual inspection of all accessible areas. Our chartered surveyors in Catton look at the roof structure, walls, floors, doors, windows and joinery, along with bathrooms and kitchens. We also use a clear condition rating system, so issues are shown from "good" condition through to "urgent repairs" that need immediate attention. Across every report, the RICS traffic light system makes it easy to see which parts need work at a glance.

In the inspection itself, our surveyor checks the main structural parts of the property, from foundations and load-bearing walls to the building’s overall integrity. We look for damp, rot, insect damage, and any sign of subsidence or movement. Catton has a mix of detached and semi-detached homes, so our surveyors pay close attention to the usual weak spots, roof condition, chimney stacks, external render and brickwork. A lot of the area was built during the mid-twentieth century expansion of Norwich, so we also keep an eye on original windows that may need refurbishment and older electrical installations that may not meet current regulations.

The Level 2 survey also comes with a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost estimate, so you get a fuller view of the property’s worth. Where we find anything significant, the report explains what extra specialist checks may be needed, such as a structural engineer’s assessment or a timber and damp survey. Some matters cannot be judged properly through visual inspection alone, so we flag those clearly. If we spot signs of possible subsidence, for instance, we recommend a structural engineer before you commit to the purchase.

We cover the main building elements, including foundations where they are accessible, external walls with any render or cladding, the roof structure and covering, internal joinery such as skirting boards and door frames, and all services, gas, electric and plumbing. Outbuildings, too, such as garages and sheds, are inspected, along with boundaries, driveways and patios. Every element gets its own condition rating, so you know exactly where matters stand with each part of the property.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Condition ratings for each element
• Market valuation and rebuild cost
• Advice on further investigations needed

From years of surveying properties across Catton and the surrounding Norwich areas, we have seen the same defects turning up again and again. Many homes in Old Catton were built during the post-war period through to the 1970s, so they often still have original features that are now nearing the end of their natural lifespan. Roof coverings from this era frequently show wear, and our inspections often pick up missing or slipped tiles, deteriorating felt, and corroded valley gutters.

Damp penetration is another common issue in Catton properties, particularly where solid walls have been used instead of cavity wall construction. Norfolk’s climate leaves homes exposed to prevailing weather from the east, and older render systems can break down over time, allowing moisture into the external walls. When we find raised moisture readings, we routinely recommend damp meter surveys, because dealing with damp early can stop more serious structural problems developing later.

We also often come across wiring concerns in properties built before the 1990s. Our visual inspection cannot test the electrical installation, but we do check the consumer unit, socket outlets and visible wiring for deterioration or signs that the system does not comply with current standards. If we see older fuse boards with replaceable fuses, or wiring that looks damaged or altered, we recommend that a qualified electrician inspects it before you complete the purchase. Rewiring can be costly, so finding this sort of issue early can shape both your decision and your negotiation strategy.

The report is set out so you get a clear view of the property’s condition. Each part is given a condition rating, with Category 1 meaning no repair is currently needed, Category 2 meaning repairs are needed but not urgent, and Category 3 showing urgent repairs that need immediate attention. It makes it much easier to decide what needs doing after you move in. We also use a simple traffic light system, where green means no action is needed, amber shows issues that need attention, and red highlights serious defects that need urgent professional assessment.

Alongside the condition assessment, your report includes a current market valuation based on our surveyor’s professional judgment and a review of recent sales in the Catton area. We also give a rebuild cost for insurance purposes, which is often needed by mortgage lenders. That is especially useful for detached properties in Catton, where rebuild costs can vary a great deal depending on size and construction type. The figure we provide is based on current building costs in the Norfolk region, so your insurance cover is right from day one of ownership.

We also include a section that highlights legal matters for your conveyancing solicitor. These can cover missing building regulations approvals for extensions, boundary or access rights issues, or other concerns that need a closer look. Spotting them early helps you avoid expensive legal problems after completion. We have seen plenty of cases where missing building control sign-offs for loft conversions or conservatories caused difficulties during conveyancing, and our survey often picks them up before they become a barrier to the purchase.