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Survey details

1920s Property

Level 2 Survey Cardiff

Purchasing a Victorian property in Cardiff, the buyer wanted a clear overview of the building’s general condition and any visible issues that could impact future costs.

Archwise carried out a Level 2 Home Survey, noting signs of historic movement, areas of damp ingress and several elements that would benefit from planned maintenance to prevent further deterioration.

The report provided a clear summary of the findings, allowing the buyer to approach the purchase with confidence and make sensible provisions for upcoming works.

  • Project: Level 2 Survey
  • Project Date: May 16, 2025

Doorframes flush

The internal door frames were noted to be sitting flush and operating correctly, with no signs of racking or distortion. Checks of door openings form a useful indicator of structural movement, as frames are often one of the first elements to show misalignment where significant movement has occurred.

No such distortion was observed in this case, and the openings appeared square and true, providing further reassurance that no notable structural shift has affected these areas.

Past leak to chimney

Evidence of a past leak was noted around the chimney breast, visible as historic soot staining that had once run down the surface. However, during inspection it was raining heavily and no active moisture ingress was detected, suggesting that the previous issue has been successfully repaired.

It is sensible to continue monitoring the area over time, but further roofing work does not currently appear necessary, and care should be taken not to instruct additional repairs where no active defect is present.

Damp to sitting room

Damp staining was noted to the sitting room wall and floor junction. Inspection of the exterior revealed that several air bricks serving the subfloor void had been blocked, restricting airflow beneath the suspended floor. Reduced ventilation in this area is likely to have contributed to elevated moisture levels and the damp noted internally.

Reinstating clear airflow by reopening or replacing the air bricks should help the subfloor void dry out and prevent recurrence. This is a relatively simple improvement that forms part of routine maintenance for suspended timber floors.

Load bearing modification

A loadbearing wall has been removed and an RSJ installed to support the opening. The beam appeared level and the adjacent walls are carrying the load without visible distortion, indicating the installation is performing adequately from a visual standpoint.

However, structural alterations of this nature require formal Building Control approval, and confirmation of compliance should be obtained. Ensuring the correct certification and documentation is in place will help avoid delays during the conveyancing process and provide assurance that the works meet the required standards.

Single roof leak noted

A localised roof leak was noted during a period of heavy rainfall, with minor moisture staining visible beneath the affected section. The issue appears limited in extent, likely resulting from a small defect to a tile or flashing detail.

This should be straightforward to address through a minor repair, and early attention will help prevent further moisture ingress and maintain the condition of the internal finishes.

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Testimonial

Amanda Jones
Stokes Croft, Bristol

" Archwise provided a thorough and professional survey that gave us complete peace of mind when buying our first home. Their clear explanations, attention to detail and practical advice made the whole process stress-free. "