RICS Level 2 Survey in Bolnhurst and Keysoe

Our RICS Level 2 Homebuyer Survey provides a thorough inspection of the property's condition, covering all accessible areas from roof space to foundations. We examine the walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows, assessing their current state and identifying any defects that require attention. The survey includes a detailed evaluation of the property's construction materials and methods, which is particularly important in Bolnhurst and Keysoe where you will find everything from traditional brick-built cottages to more recent detached homes.

We inspect and report on the condition of key building elements including the roof structure, chimney stacks, rainwater goods, walls, foundations, floors, and joinery. Our surveyors also examine the condition of the property's services such as electrical installations, plumbing, and heating systems, flagging any concerns that require further investigation by specialists. For properties in this area, we pay particular attention to signs of movement or subsidence, given the clay geology that characterises much of Bedfordshire and can cause ground movement affecting foundations.

The Level 2 survey includes a clear RICS condition ratings system (1, 2, or 3) for each element inspected, making it easy to understand which issues are urgent and which can be addressed over time. We provide straightforward recommendations for repairs and maintenance, along with cost estimates where possible. This means you can negotiate with confidence, either requesting that the vendor address specific issues before completion or adjusting your offer to account for the cost of necessary works.

Given the rural nature of Bolnhurst and Keysoe, many properties also feature private septic tanks or drainage systems rather than mains sewerage, which our survey will inspect and advise on. We also assess any outbuildings, garages, or agricultural buildings that may be included with the property, as these can have associated repair costs and potential building regulation implications.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, foundations and substructure
• Damp and timber condition
• Windows, doors and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Heating and insulation

Properties in Bolnhurst and Keysoe represent a diverse mix of ages and construction types, from period cottages to modern family homes. This variety means our surveyors frequently encounter a range of defects that buyers should be aware of. Older properties, particularly those built before 1919, often suffer from damp issues including rising damp and penetrating damp, especially where original damp-proof courses have failed or were never installed. The solid wall construction common in these older homes also means thermal efficiency is typically lower than modern standards, which can result in higher heating costs and potential condensation problems.

Roof conditions are another frequent area of concern in this area. Many properties feature traditional pitched roofs with slate or tile coverings that, while durable, can deteriorate over time. We commonly find slipped tiles, damaged flashing around chimneys, and inadequate insulation in roof spaces. For properties with thatched roofs, which can be found in the more historic portions of these villages, specialist inspection may be recommended beyond the standard Level 2 survey.

Electrical and plumbing systems in older properties frequently require updating to meet current safety standards. We often identify wiring that dates from the 1970s or earlier, which may not have the capacity for modern household demands. Similarly, original plumbing systems with lead or galvanised steel pipes may be present, along with older heating systems that are inefficient and costly to run. These issues are particularly common in properties on Kimbolton Road in Bolnhurst or Pertenhall Road in Keysoe, where the housing stock includes a significant proportion of older homes.

Given the clay soil conditions prevalent across Bedfordshire, subsidence and foundation movement is a key concern for properties in Bolnhurst and Keysoe. Properties built before modern foundation standards may show signs of movement including diagonal cracks in walls, doors and windows that stick or do not close properly, and uneven floors. Our surveyors are trained to identify these warning signs and recommend further investigation by a structural engineer where necessary.

• Rising damp and penetrating damp
• Roof deterioration and slipped tiles
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Subsidence from clay soil movement
• Woodworm and wet rot in timber
• Inadequate insulation