RICS Level 2 Survey in Ashbocking

A RICS Level 2 Home Survey includes a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the structure, walls, roof, windows, doors, plumbing, electrical systems, and any outbuildings. The report uses a traffic-light system to clearly indicate the condition of each area, with red meaning urgent attention is needed, amber indicating issues requiring future attention, and green denoting satisfactory condition. Our Level 2 reports also include an assessment of any potential risks posed by the local environment, such as the shrink-swell clay soil risks that affect many properties in the Ashbocking area, as well as flood risk considerations where the property is near watercourses.

The cost of a RICS Level 2 survey in Ashbocking typically starts from around £450 for standard properties, with the national average being approximately £455. The final cost depends on factors such as the property's size, value, and type. For properties valued over £500,000, the average cost rises to around £586, while properties under £200,000 average around £384. Given that the average property price in Ashbocking is £546,500, most properties in the village will fall into the higher price bracket for survey costs, though the exact fee will be confirmed when you request a quote based on your specific property details.

Even new build properties can benefit from a RICS Level 2 survey. While brand new homes are covered by NHBC or similar structural warranties, a survey can identify any construction defects, snagging issues, or problems with workmanship that may not be immediately apparent. Our inspectors have surveyed properties in new developments around Ashbocking, including the recent Project Orange scheme completed in September 2024. We check items that may not be covered by warranty such as the quality of finishings, the operation of doors and windows, and the condition of external render and cladding, providing you with about your new home.

The duration of a RICS Level 2 survey depends on the size and complexity of the property. For a typical residential property in the Ashbocking area, the inspection usually takes between one and two hours. Larger properties or those with complex layouts may take longer, particularly if they include significant outbuildings or annexe accommodation. You don't need to be present during the survey, though many buyers find it helpful to attend so they can ask questions directly to the surveyor and receive immediate clarification on any issues observed during the inspection.

Yes, a RICS Level 2 survey includes a visual assessment of the property's structural integrity. Our surveyors look for signs of subsidence, movement, cracks, damp, and other structural concerns. Given that Ashbocking has clay soils that can cause shrink-swell movement, our inspectors pay particular attention to signs of foundation movement or subsidence, including crack patterns in brickwork, especially diagonal cracks near windows and doors, gaps between walls and ceilings, and any unevenness in floors. We also note the proximity of trees and large vegetation to the property, as these can exacerbate clay soil movement and lead to structural issues over time.

If our survey identifies significant issues, we provide clear recommendations for what action to take. This may include obtaining specialist reports from structural engineers or other professionals, particularly for concerns about foundations, significant damp problems, or roof defects. You can then use the survey findings to negotiate with the seller for repairs or a reduction in the purchase price, or you may decide to withdraw from the purchase if the issues are too severe. We always provide practical guidance on the next steps, whether that means requesting further investigations, budgeting for necessary repairs, or seeking professional advice before proceeding with your purchase.

Ashbocking contains several historic buildings including the Grade II* listed Ashbocking Hall on Church Lane, which dates from the early 16th century and retains medieval moat remains. All Saints' Church in the village dates back to the 14th century. If you're purchasing a listed property, our surveyors understand the additional considerations required, including the need to assess the condition of historic fabric, the presence of traditional building materials, and any previous alterations that may have affected the building's character. We can advise on whether the property may require specialist conservation advice and can highlight any issues that might affect your plans for the property.

The geology beneath Ashbocking properties consists largely of boulder clay overlying the underlying chalk, creating conditions that can lead to shrink-swell movement in foundations during periods of dry weather or heavy rainfall. This is particularly relevant for properties with trees or large shrubs close to the building, as vegetation draws moisture from the soil and can cause the clay to contract. Our surveyors inspect for signs of this type of movement, including cracking to external walls, distortion of door and window frames, and any visible settlement around the building's foundations. We can advise on whether a specialist structural engineer's report may be warranted based on our observations.