RICS Level 2 Survey in Asgarby and Howell

Our Level 2 survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying defects that affect value and safety. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and permanently fitted fixtures and fittings. The survey includes a thorough assessment of the property's construction, materials, and overall condition, with clear ratings for each identified issue - from "not inspected" through "requires attention" to "requires urgent repair." Our reports use a simple traffic light system so you can quickly identify which issues need immediate attention versus those that can be monitored over time.

For properties in Asgarby and Howell, our inspectors pay particular attention to the traditional building methods prevalent in this part of Lincolnshire. Many homes here feature limestone ashlar, coursed rubble, and red brick construction, with roofs using slate, concrete tiles, or pantiles. These older construction methods, while characterful, can present specific challenges including movement in older walls, weathering of stonework, and deterioration of traditional roofing materials. We know what to look for in properties constructed with local limestone and historic brickwork, having surveyed dozens of homes in this parish and the surrounding North Kesteven villages.

The RICS Level 2 report includes our professional opinion on the property's market value, specifically tailored to the Asgarby and Howell market. We provide an Insurance Reinstatement figure for rebuild cost purposes and highlight any urgent matters that require immediate attention. The report is clear, jargon-free, and includes colour-coded ratings so you can quickly understand which issues need priority action. We also include specific advice on matters you should raise with your solicitor during the conveyancing process, ensuring you have all the information needed for a confident purchase decision.

Our surveyors understand that buying a property in Asgarby and Howell often means investing in a home with significant historical character. The parish contains buildings dating back to the 14th century, including the Church of St Oswald in Howell, and properties from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries are common. This heritage brings unique charm but also requires knowledgeable assessment of older construction methods that differ substantially from modern building standards. We tailor our inspection approach to each property, recognising that a cottage near the Church of St Andrew requires different scrutiny than a modern family home on the outskirts of the village.

• External walls and structural elements
• Roof structure and covering
• Floors, stairs, and balconies
• Windows and doors
• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Garage and outbuildings
• Services (gas, electric, water)
• Damp and timber condition

The parish of Asgarby and Howell sits within the North Kesteven district of Lincolnshire, comprising the villages of Asgarby and Howell along with surrounding farmland. The area is characterised by its rural nature and significant historical heritage. Properties here range from modest semi-detached homes along Heckington Road to substantial country estates like Howell Hall and West Grange, which have sold for £670,000 and above in recent years. The 2021 Census recorded a population of 492 residents, showing substantial growth from just 69 in 2001, indicating increasing popularity of this rural Lincolnshire parish.

Building materials in the area reflect traditional Lincolnshire construction. Asgarby Hall features red brick rendered walls with coursed limestone rubble and a hipped slate roof. Howell Hall uses limestone ashlar with concrete tiled roofs. The Old Rectory showcases coursed limestone ashlar to the front with yellow brick to the rear and pantiled roofing. These varied construction methods mean our surveyors approach each property individually, assessing the specific materials and their condition. We understand that limestone ashlar requires different assessment than red brick rendered walls, and that slate roofs have different failure modes than concrete tiles or pantiles.

The geological conditions in parts of Lincolnshire can present challenges for property owners. Clay soils are common in the region and can lead to subsidence issues, particularly in older properties with shallow foundations or trees nearby. While specific geological data for Asgarby and Howell is not readily available, our inspectors are experienced in identifying the signs of movement and subsidence that can affect properties in this county. We look for signs such as cracking in walls, doors that stick or don't close properly, and uneven floors - all indicators that could suggest ground movement affecting the property's foundations.

The area's concentration of listed buildings - including the Church of St Andrew in Asgarby (Grade I), the Church of St Oswald in Howell (Grade II*), and various manor houses and farmhouses - demonstrates the historical significance of the parish. This heritage means many properties have protected status, which can affect what alterations are possible and may require specialist consideration during any renovation work. Our surveyors understand the implications of listed building status and can advise on how this might affect your future plans for the property. We also recognise that properties in historic areas may have non-standard construction features that require experienced assessment.

• Rural parish with 492 residents
• Significant heritage and listed buildings
• Traditional construction materials
• Varied property types and sizes
• Potential clay soil subsidence risk