RICS Level 2 Survey in Aldington

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the main structural elements including walls, roof, floors, and foundations, looking for signs of movement, damp, rot, or other defects that could impact the building's integrity. In Aldington's older properties, this is particularly important given the significant number of homes with pre-1919 construction, many of which feature traditional solid wall construction rather than modern cavity walls. Our inspectors will tap walls to check for soundness, examine pointing condition on exposed brickwork, and assess the overall structural integrity of both load-bearing and non-load-bearing elements.

The survey includes assessment of all major installations such as plumbing, electrical systems, heating, and drainage. Our inspectors will note any outdated electrics common in properties that have not been updated since the 1980s, and identify potential safety concerns with older heating systems or inadequate insulation. We check both the interior and exterior of the property, including any outbuildings, garages, and the general condition of boundaries. In Aldington, where many properties have large gardens and outbuildings, we ensure these secondary structures are also assessed for condition and any potential issues that might affect the overall property value.

One area that requires particular attention in Aldington is the local geology. The Wychavon district sits on clay deposits that can cause shrink-swell movement in soils, leading to subsidence or heave in properties with shallow foundations. Our inspectors are experienced in identifying the signs of such movement, including cracking patterns and door/window alignment issues, and will flag any concerns for further investigation. We pay particular attention to properties with large mature trees nearby, as tree roots can draw moisture from clay soils and cause ground movement that affects foundations, particularly in the summer months.

We also assess the property's energy efficiency and flag any obvious areas of heat loss, which is especially relevant for older properties that may lack modern insulation standards. The resulting report includes clear condition ratings for each element, from the roof down to the foundations, with an executive summary highlighting the most important issues discovered during the inspection. We provide practical recommendations, prioritising any urgent defects that need immediate attention from those that can be scheduled for future maintenance.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Plumbing and drainage systems
• Electrical installations
• Heating systems
• External areas and boundaries

Aldington's position near the River Avon brings specific considerations for property buyers. Properties in low-lying areas adjacent to the river may be at risk of flooding, and our surveyors will note any signs of previous flood damage or potential flood risks during the inspection. We look for water marks on walls, tide lines in lower floors, and any evidence of flood resilience measures that may have been installed. Surface water flooding can also occur in areas where drainage systems are overwhelmed during heavy rainfall, which is particularly relevant given the local clay geology that can affect water run-off and create standing water in gardens and driveways.

The predominant construction materials in Aldington reflect its rural Worcestershire setting. Red brick in Flemish or English bond is common, with some properties featuring traditional timber framing and rendered exteriors. Roofs typically use clay tiles or slate, and our inspectors assess the condition of these materials carefully, noting any slipped tiles, deteriorated pointing, or issues with lead flashing that could lead to leaks. We also check the condition of roof timbers for any signs of rot or woodworm infestation, which can be particularly problematic in older properties with original timber structures.

Given that a significant proportion of Aldington's housing stock predates 1945, issues such as outdated electrical wiring, old plumbing systems, and lack of modern insulation are frequently encountered. Properties built before modern building regulations may have foundations that are shallower than current standards, making them more susceptible to movement in the local clay soils, particularly where large trees are present near the building. Our surveyors will identify any outdated consumer units, verify the presence of adequate earthing, and check whether the electrical installation has been tested and certified within the last ten years.

The village's conservation status means that any significant alterations or repairs to properties may require planning permission from Wychavon District Council. Our survey reports flag any conservation considerations and advise on the potential implications for future maintenance and renovation work. We note the condition of any original features that contribute to the character of the property, such as period fireplaces, original windows, or decorative brickwork, and highlight where any changes might require listed building consent.

Many properties in Aldington also have large gardens and agricultural outbuildings that may have been converted or used for various purposes over the years. We inspect these structures and note their condition, any potential issues with boundaries, and any rights of access that might affect the property. This is particularly relevant for larger detached properties that may have historic ties to agricultural land or buildings.