RICS Level 2 Survey in Whittingham

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey gives a detailed inspection of the property’s condition, covering the main elements from roof structure and walls through to floors, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems. In Whittingham, where plenty of homes are built in the traditional brick style seen across Lancashire, our surveyors pay close attention to damp, mortar wear, and any movement that could point to subsidence issues.

Outside, we look closely at brickwork, render, and pointing, all of which are common across the local area. Gutters, downpipes, and drainage systems are checked too, which matters in Lancashire because of the climate and the annual rainfall. Roofs are inspected as well, including tiles, flashing, and chimney stacks, so any missing or damaged parts that might let water in are picked up.

Once inside, we assess walls, ceilings, and floors for cracks, damp staining, and evidence of earlier repairs. We also check how doors and windows are working, the condition of kitchen and bathroom fittings, and the basic state of plumbing and electrical installations. The report is written in plain English, with defects set out in priority and routine categories, so you can see what may need doing after completion.

Whittingham has a sizeable share of homes from the mid-to-late twentieth century, and our surveyors know the warning signs in those age groups. We often come across original roof coverings that are nearing the end of their service life, damp in solid wall construction, and dated electrical systems that may no longer comply with current regulations. Extensions and alterations are included in the assessment too, so any changes to the property are checked against building control requirements.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Window and door functionality
• Plumbing and electrical basics
• Floor and ceiling condition

The RICS traffic light system used in your RICS Level 2 report makes the condition of each inspected element easy to read. Green means no significant issues were found, amber shows defects that need attention but are not immediately urgent, and red flags serious issues that need prompt professional attention. This colour-coded approach makes it much easier to prioritise repairs and understand the overall state of the property.

Every section of the report sets out the element inspected, any defects found, and our recommendation for what should happen next. Where it helps, we include photographs to show the issues we have identified. You will also get an indication of the likely cost of repairing or dealing with any defects, which helps with budgeting after you move in. That cost information is a guide, and actual figures may vary depending on the contractors you use.

In Whittingham, our surveyors are used to the kinds of problems that turn up in the local housing stock. Roof condition is a common one, especially on homes with older tile coverings, along with damp that affects solid wall construction and the state of windows and doors in properties of different ages. We also point out maintenance items that are not defects as such, but would benefit from attention before they turn into bigger problems.

We do more than list defects. Each issue is explained in terms of what it could mean, with clear guidance on the next steps. If specialist input is needed, we point you towards the right qualified professional, whether that is a structural engineer, damp specialist, or electrician. That broader approach gives you the information you need to make sensible decisions about a property purchase in Whittingham.