RICS Level 2 Survey in Buckerell

The RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the Homebuyer Survey, provides a comprehensive assessment of the property condition without the detailed costings of a full building survey. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space where safe to do so, the external walls, damp proof courses, and structural elements. In Buckerell, where many properties feature traditional construction methods including cob, stone, and render, our surveyors pay particular attention to signs of movement, damp ingress, and the condition of historic features.

We assess the condition of windows, doors, plumbing, electrical installations, and heating systems. The report includes a traffic light rating system highlighting defects that are either serious, requiring urgent attention, or things that need rectifying in due course. For properties in Buckerell, this is particularly valuable given the age of many homes in the village, with numerous properties dating back several centuries and built with materials that require specific maintenance approaches.

The survey also includes a market valuation and an insurance rebuild cost estimate, which is essential for properties in a village with multiple listed buildings where restoration costs can significantly exceed standard valuations. Our report provides you with the information needed to renegotiate the purchase price if significant defects are found, or to budget for necessary repairs after completion.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, damp and timber conditions
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical systems
• Heating and insulation
• Grounds and drainage

Properties in Buckerell present specific defect patterns that our surveyors know to look for. The traditional cob and stone construction found on many historic cottages, while aesthetically pleasing, can be susceptible to damp ingress if the render coating deteriorates. We frequently find issues with rising damp in properties where the original damp proof course has failed or was never installed. Our inspectors will check the condition of external render, looking for cracks, delamination, and signs of water penetration that could lead to more serious structural issues if left untreated.

Thatched roofing, while beautiful and characteristic of the area, requires specialized knowledge to assess properly. Our surveyors examine the condition of the thatch, checking for signs of wear, water staining, and vegetation growth that could indicate deterioration. We also look at the condition of the roof structure beneath the thatch, as timber rafters and purlins can be affected by prolonged exposure to moisture. Given the insurance implications of thatched properties, our report provides you with the detail needed to ensure adequate coverage.

The age of many properties in Buckerell means that electrical and plumbing installations may be original or date from several decades ago. We identify outdated consumer units, old rubber-insulated wiring, and lead or galvanised steel pipes that could pose safety concerns or require expensive updating. Our assessment also covers heating systems, with many older properties still relying on solid fuel Agas or older boiler installations that may be inefficient or require replacement.

Windows in historic Buckerell properties are often single-glazed and feature original ironmongery that may be difficult to maintain or repair. Our surveyors document the condition of all windows, checking for rot in timber frames, broken seals in any double-glazed units, and the functionality of locks and handles. These findings are important for budgeting purposes, as upgrading windows in listed properties may require listed building consent.

Properties in Buckerell reflect the village's historic character, with many homes constructed using traditional methods that differ significantly from modern building techniques. The predominant construction materials include roughly dressed stone, cob, and render, with some properties featuring later additions built with brick and traditional tile roofing. Understanding these construction types is essential for identifying potential issues that may not be apparent in newer properties.

Thatched roofs remain common on historic buildings throughout Buckerell, particularly on cottages and farmhouses that date back several centuries. While thatch provides excellent insulation and contributes to the village's character, it requires specialized maintenance and specific insurance considerations. Our surveyors are experienced in assessing the condition of thatched roofs, checking for signs of wear, water ingress, and the effectiveness of any recent repairs or maintenance work.

The age of properties in Buckerell means that many will have undergone various alterations and extensions over the years. Our Level 2 Survey includes assessment of the condition of any additions, checking that connections between old and new work are sound, and identifying any potential issues with damp penetration at junction points. We also examine the condition of historic windows, which may be single-glazed or feature original ironmongery that requires careful maintenance.

Given that prices in Buckerell have seen a 17% adjustment in the past year and are now 39% below the 2015 peak of £548,750, obtaining a detailed survey is particularly valuable for ensuring you are making a sound investment in the current market conditions. Our report provides you with the information needed to make an informed decision about your property purchase.