RICS Level 2 Survey in Ambleston

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the roof structure, walls, windows, doors, dampness, timber conditions, and services. For Ambleston properties, this is particularly valuable given the age of the housing stock. Many homes in this area were built before 1919 using traditional solid wall construction with local Pembrokeshire stone, and these older properties often require expert assessment to identify potential issues that might not be visible during a casual viewing. Our surveyors are trained to recognise the subtle signs of problems that affect traditional Welsh construction, from the particular way moisture behaves in solid stone walls to the specific defects that appear in heritage joinery.

The survey includes a thorough inspection of the roof, where we check for slate deterioration, leadwork condition, and timber rafter integrity. In Ambleston, slate roofs are common, and our surveyors are experienced in identifying the specific defects that affect these traditional roofing materials in the Welsh climate. We examine every accessible roof space, checking the condition of rafters, purlins, and any structural timber elements. Given the coastal climate of Pembrokeshire, we pay particular attention to signs of salt corrosion on metal components and the effects of wind exposure on roof coverings. The inspection also covers chimneys, which are a common feature on older Ambleston properties and can present issues with flashings, mortar deterioration, and structural integrity.

We also examine the property's drainage systems, looking at gutters, downpipes, and surface water management, which is especially important given the local geology that includes clay-rich soils with shrink-swell potential. Poor drainage can exacerbate ground movement in these conditions, leading to subsidence issues that our surveyors know exactly how to spot. The report we produce categorises defects by urgency using traffic light ratings, meaning you can immediately understand which issues require immediate attention versus those worth monitoring. Each finding is supported by clear photographs and practical recommendations that are specific to your property rather than generic boilerplate comments.

Our inspectors also assess the property's energy efficiency and provide basic advice on insulation, which is particularly relevant for older solid-wall properties that may have poor thermal performance. Pembrokeshire properties built before modern building regulations often lack adequate insulation, and our survey highlights areas where improvements could be made to reduce your energy bills. We also check for potential radon exposure, as Pembrokeshire is identified as an area where radon gas levels can exceed national averages in some properties. This is a particular concern in properties with solid floors or those built on certain geological formations that are present in the Ambleston area.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and timber assessment
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Drainage and gutters
• Electrical and heating visible elements
• Foundation and structural overview
• Energy performance indicators

Given the rural nature of Ambleston and the age of its housing stock, our surveyors frequently encounter several recurring issues. Damp is perhaps the most common problem, particularly in older properties with solid walls where moisture can penetrate more easily than in modern cavity wall constructions. Properties in Ambleston often feature traditional Pembrokeshire stone walls, which while aesthetically pleasing, can be susceptible to damp penetration if pointing has deteriorated or if there's inadequate ventilation. We see rising damp particularly in properties where the ground levels have been raised over the years, bridging the damp-proof course, or where external paving has been laid against the walls.

Roof condition is another significant area of concern. Many homes in the area have slate roofs that, while durable, require regular maintenance. Our inspectors regularly identify slipped or broken slates, deteriorated leadwork around chimneys and valleys, and in some cases, timber rot affecting rafters or purlins. The local climate, with its mix of rain and coastal weather, accelerates wear on roofing materials, making regular inspection essential. We often find that ridge tiles have become loose over time, and mortar pointing to slate hanging walls has deteriorated significantly. In properties where the roof space has been converted or used for storage, we also check for adequate ventilation to prevent condensation and timber decay.

Subsidence and heave represent particular risks in Ambleston due to the underlying clay-rich soils, including glacial till (boulder clay). These soils expand and contract with moisture changes, potentially causing movement in foundations. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of subsidence, including characteristic cracking patterns, and can advise on whether further investigation is needed. Trees near properties can exacerbate these issues by drawing moisture from the soil, causing the clay to shrink and leading to differential movement. We always check for trees close to buildings and assess whether their roots might be affecting the foundations, particularly in properties with shallower foundations typical of older rural buildings.

Outdated electrical and plumbing systems are frequently found in Ambleston's older properties. Many homes still have original wiring from the mid-20th century or earlier, which may not meet current safety standards. We identify consumer units that appear outdated, check for the presence of older cable types like rubber-insulated wiring, and note any visible junction boxes or extensions that suggest DIY modifications. Similarly, plumbing systems in older properties often consist of galvanised steel or lead pipes that are nearing the end of their operational life. Our survey highlights these concerns so you can plan for necessary upgrades, and we advise on the urgency of addressing any electrical or plumbing issues identified.

• Rising damp and penetrating damp
• Slate roof deterioration
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Subsidence on clay soils
• Outdated electrical systems
• Ageing plumbing and heating
• Poor insulation in solid walls
• Radon gas exposure risk

Understanding the construction methods used in Ambleston properties is essential for providing an accurate survey. The predominant building material in this area is local Pembrokeshire stone, which has been quarried locally for centuries and gives many properties their distinctive character. This stone is typically used in solid wall construction, meaning the walls are load-bearing and of significant thickness, often exceeding 400mm in properties built before 1900. While this construction method provides excellent thermal mass, it also means that these properties lack the cavity that modern buildings have, making them more susceptible to damp penetration and requiring different approaches to insulation.

Many properties in Ambleston also feature rendered walls, with traditional lime-based renders allowing the building to breathe while providing weather protection. However, where cement-based renders have been applied to older properties, we frequently find trapped moisture causing deterioration of the underlying fabric. Our surveyors know to check the condition of render carefully, looking for cracks, bulging, and signs of water staining that might indicate underlying problems. The pointing between stone blocks is another area we examine closely, as the traditional lime mortar used in older properties can deteriorate over time, allowing water ingress.

Slate roofing in Ambleston typically consists of either natural Welsh slate or imported slate, both of which have long lifespans but require periodic maintenance. The roof structures are generally traditional cut timber roofs with rafters, purlins, and sometimes collar ties. In some properties, we find older pegged roof construction using oak pegs, which requires specialist knowledge to assess properly. We also encounter properties with flat or low-pitched roofs, particularly on extensions and outbuildings, where the detailing can be more complex and problems more common.

The foundations of properties in Ambleston typically consist of traditional strip foundations, which in clay soil conditions can be vulnerable to movement. We examine the property for signs of foundation distress, including cracking to walls, doors and windows that stick or don't close properly, and uneven floor levels. In some properties, we also find rubble trench foundations or even properties built directly on the ground, particularly in older farm buildings that have been converted to residential use.