RICS Level 2 Survey in Illogan

Our RICS Level 2 survey gives a detailed visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. The surveyor checks the roof structure, walls, floors, windows, doors and the condition of the foundations. In Illogan, where we often see traditional Cornish stone-built homes alongside more modern builds, our surveyors pay close attention to the construction methods used here. The report sets out the condition of each element clearly, using traffic light ratings to show where matters range from cosmetic issues to serious defects needing immediate attention.

The survey also looks closely at damp levels throughout the property, which matters in Cornwall’s climate, where moisture can work its way into older buildings over time. Our surveyors use professional moisture meters to pick up damp that may not be obvious to the untrained eye. We also inspect timber elements, checking for rot or insect infestation that could affect the building’s structural integrity. In homes with solid walls, which are common in older Illogan properties, we assess insulation quality and point out improvements that could help reduce energy costs.

We also cover the condition of the property’s services, including the electrical system, plumbing and heating. Any visible defects, or work that does not meet current regulations, will be noted, and we highlight anything that needs attention from qualified tradespeople. The report includes clear photographs of the issues we find, so it is easy to see what needs repairing or replacing. That level of detail can be very useful when negotiating the purchase price or asking the seller to deal with specific matters before completion.

Illogan properties often use traditional construction methods that are quite different from modern building practice. Many homes here were built with solid walls rather than the cavity walls seen in newer properties, which affects both thermal efficiency and moisture control. Our surveyors understand those older building techniques and know what to look for when judging a property’s condition. We check original features such as stone lintels, traditional roof timbers and period joinery, giving you a clear view of the property’s overall condition.

• Roof and loft structure
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Damp and moisture detection
• Timber condition and rot
• Electrical and heating systems
• Plumbing and drainage
• Boundary walls and outbuildings

Your RICS Level 2 report is written to be clear and straightforward, even if you have never dealt with a property survey before. Each section of the property is given a rating, green for condition is satisfactory, amber for minor defects that need attention, and red for serious issues needing immediate repair. The report also includes an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating and suggestions for improving the property’s energy efficiency, helping you understand ongoing heating and lighting costs in your new home.

For Illogan properties that have been exposed to the Cornish climate for many years, our reports often pick up issues linked to weathering and age. That can include deteriorating roof coverings, worn pointing to external walls and the gradual breakdown of damp proof courses. Our surveyors give specific recommendations for tackling these matters, including estimated timescales for when repairs may be required and guidance on priority. It helps you plan financially for work needed now and over the next few years, so you are not caught by surprise when repair bills arrive after moving in.

The report also includes a market valuation, based on the property’s current condition and recent comparable sales in the Illogan area. That valuation can be useful for mortgage purposes and for understanding how condition affects value. If we find significant defects, the valuation will take account of the repair costs, giving you solid grounds to renegotiate the purchase price with the seller. Many of our clients in Illogan have used their survey reports to secure reductions that far exceeded the survey cost.

The traffic light system in our reports gives you instant clarity on each part of the property. A green rating means the element is in satisfactory condition for its age and type. Amber marks minor defects that should be dealt with but are not urgent. Red flags serious issues that need immediate attention, and we explain these in detail with recommendations for further investigation or repair. It is a plain approach that helps you set priorities and budget properly.

From surveying properties throughout the Illogan area, we have seen certain issues turn up again and again in our reports. Because so much of the local housing stock is older, deteriorating roof coverings are among the most common findings. Tiles or slates can crack or slip over time, letting in water that may not be obvious from inside the property. Our surveyors inspect all accessible roof areas carefully, including valleys and junctions where leaks are most likely to appear.

Damp is another major issue in Illogan properties, especially in older homes with solid walls. Cornwall’s rainfall, combined with older construction methods, can lead to penetrating damp and rising damp if damp proof courses have failed or were never installed. We use professional moisture meters to gauge the extent of any damp and work out the most likely cause. That information matters to any buyer, because damp can affect the health of occupants and the building’s structural integrity if it is left untreated.

Electrical safety is a frequent concern in older Illogan properties, many of which still have original wiring that may not meet current regulations. Our surveyors identify visible electrical issues and recommend that a qualified electrician carries out a more detailed inspection before completion. Heating systems in older homes may also be inefficient or nearing the end of their useful life, so our reports flag these points and help you budget for possible replacements or upgrades after you move in.

Windows and doors in traditional Cornish homes often show clear signs of age and wear. Single glazed windows, rotting timber frames and poorly fitting doors come up often in our Illogan surveys. These may seem minor at first glance, but they can have a real effect on both comfort and energy efficiency. Our reports set out specific recommendations for dealing with them, whether through repair, renovation or replacement.