RICS Level 2 Survey in Ashurst and Colbury

The RICS Level 2 Survey, also known as the Home Survey, provides a thorough inspection of all accessible areas of your property. Our surveyors examine the condition of walls, floors, ceilings, roofs, and the building's external elements. In Ashurst and Colbury, where properties range from Victorian farmhouses to contemporary new builds at The Copse, our inspectors have the local knowledge to identify issues specific to the area's construction methods and materials. We check brickwork for signs of frost damage, examine render for cracking or delamination, and assess timber-framed elements where they occur in older properties.

We specifically assess the risk of structural movement, which is particularly relevant in Ashurst and Colbury due to the underlying clay soils that present moderate to high shrink-swell risk. Our surveyors check for signs of subsidence, cracking, and movement that could indicate foundation problems, especially in properties with shallower foundations built on expansive clay. The geology of this area includes Barton Group and Bracklesham Group formations, which consist of sands, silts, and clays that can behave unpredictably with moisture changes. We examine walls for characteristic crack patterns, check door and window operation for binding or sticking, and look for signs of previous movement that may have been repaired.

The survey includes evaluation of damp levels, roof condition, timber defects, and the condition of windows, doors, and joinery. We inspect the property's drainage systems and check for adequate ventilation, which is essential in this area where surface water flooding can occur during heavy rainfall. Our inspectors also examine the condition of rain water goods and drainage, which are critical in preventing damp penetration in older properties. Properties near Bartley Water receive particular attention regarding flood risk and drainage adequacy.

We assess electrical and plumbing installations visually, noting their apparent condition and age. While we do not test behind walls or perform invasive inspections, we can identify obvious concerns that warrant further investigation by specialists. This includes noting consumer unit types, visible wiring conditions, and the apparent age of plumbing installations. For properties in the area built before 1980, we pay particular attention to potential issues with outdated electrical systems that may not meet current regulations.

• Structural condition assessment
• Damp and moisture analysis
• Roof and chimney inspection
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Energy efficiency considerations
• Legal considerations and planning constraints

Properties in Ashurst and Colbury present several common issues that our surveyors frequently identify. The presence of shrink-swell clay soils in the area means that properties built on these foundations can experience subsidence or heave, particularly where trees have been removed or where drainage is inadequate. Our inspectors are trained to spot the subtle signs of movement, including cracking patterns and door alignment issues that may indicate structural concerns. Properties with large trees nearby, particularly those with extensive root systems, require careful assessment as clay shrinkage can occur when mature trees are removed, causing ground heave that affects foundations.

Many properties in the area were constructed before 1980 and therefore often contain outdated electrical systems and plumbing that do not meet current regulations. We highlight these issues in our reports so you can budget for necessary upgrades. Electrical consumer units with older fuse boxes, lack of RCD protection, and dated wiring colours are common findings in properties from this period. Similarly, galvanised steel pipes or lead water supplies may still be present in homes that have not been updated. Additionally, properties built between the 1950s and 1990s may contain asbestos-containing materials, which our surveyors can identify and advise upon appropriately.

Damp problems are particularly common in the older housing stock, where rising damp or penetrating damp may be present due to defective rainwater goods, inadequate damp-proof courses, or poor ventilation. The mix of red brick construction with render finishes common in the area can trap moisture if the render becomes cracked or if DPCs are bridged by external ground levels. Our surveyors use thermal imaging and moisture meters where appropriate to assess damp conditions and identify the source of any moisture ingress. Properties with solid walls are particularly susceptible to condensation issues, especially where ventilation is inadequate in bathrooms and kitchens.

Roof conditions also require careful assessment, with many older properties showing signs of wear including slipped tiles, deteriorated flashing, or aging felt and batten systems. Clay tiles and slate are prevalent roofing materials in Ashurst and Colbury, and while durable, they require regular maintenance. We check for cracked or missing tiles, damaged ridge tiles, and condition of lead flashings around chimneys and roof windows. In properties with older felt roofing, we note any signs of deterioration that could lead to leaks.

• Subsidence and foundation movement
• Rising and penetrating damp
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Roof deterioration and tile slippage
• Timber rot and woodworm
• Asbestos-containing materials

Our team of RICS-qualified surveyors has extensive experience inspecting properties throughout the New Forest area, including Ashurst and Colbury. We understand the local housing market, the specific construction methods used in the area, and the environmental factors that affect property condition. From the Victorian cottages near St Mary's Church to the modern homes at Ashurst Bridge View, our surveyors bring local knowledge to every inspection. We understand how the New Forest National Park designation affects property improvements and can flag any planning considerations in our reports.

We pride ourselves on delivering clear, jargon-free reports that help you make informed decisions about your property purchase. Our survey reports use the RICS traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element, from green (no repair needed) to red (urgent repair or investigation required). This approach helps you prioritise works and budget effectively for any remedial work identified. Each report includes clear photographs of defects, making it easy to understand exactly what issues have been identified.

Our local presence means we can offer competitive pricing and flexible appointment times to suit your purchase timeline. With approximately 60 properties selling in the area each year, we have built strong relationships with local estate agents and conveyancing solicitors who regularly recommend our services. We understand the importance of survey turnaround times in the property buying process and work hard to deliver your report within the promised 3-5 working days.

When you book with us, you are not just getting a survey - you are getting the benefit of our local expertise. We know which areas are prone to flooding from Bartley Water, which properties may have issues with the underlying clay geology, and which developments like The Copse and Ashurst Bridge View are likely to have specific characteristics based on their construction methods. This local knowledge adds value beyond the standard survey elements, helping you understand not just what is wrong with the property, but why it might be wrong.