RICS Level 2 Home Survey in Bullington

The RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, is the most popular survey type for properties in reasonable condition. It provides a detailed assessment of a property's visible condition without intrusive investigation, making it suitable for conventional houses, bungalows, and flats built after 1900. Our chartered surveyors in Bullington examine all accessible areas of the property, from the roof space to the foundations, documenting any defects, potential issues, or areas requiring attention.

In Bullington, where many properties sit on the chalk downland of the River Dever valley, our surveyors pay particular attention to building materials common to the area. The combination of brick and flint construction seen in local properties, along with slate roofing, requires specific expertise to assess accurately. Our reports include clear ratings for each element of the property, from "good" to "urgent repairs needed," giving you an instant understanding of condition.

The Level 2 survey includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost assessment, which proves particularly valuable in the current market where Bullington property values have shown a 3% year-on-year decline from previous peaks. This valuation element helps you confirm the property is priced appropriately and ensures you have adequate insurance cover. We also highlight any legal issues that may affect the property, such as rights of way or planning constraints common in rural Hampshire villages.

Unlike a basic valuation, our RICS Level 2 Survey provides genuine insight into the actual condition of the property you are proposing to buy. The survey format is specifically designed for buyers who want professional, impartial advice about the condition of a property before they commit their savings. The detailed condition ratings help you prioritise repairs and understand which issues are cosmetic versus those requiring urgent attention.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Condition ratings for key building elements
• Market valuation and rebuild cost
• Advice on repairs and maintenance
• Legal issues and planning concerns
• Energy efficiency assessment

Our RICS Level 2 surveys in Bullington follow the rigorous RICS methodology, examining every accessible element of the property. The surveyor will assess the structural condition of walls, looking for cracks, movement, or signs of damp that may indicate underlying issues. In properties with brick and flint construction, common throughout this part of Hampshire, particular attention is paid to the integrity of the external skin and any repointing that may be required. We have inspected numerous properties along Bullington Lane and the approaches to Upper Bullington, giving us firsthand knowledge of how local buildings perform over time.

The roof receives comprehensive inspection, with our surveyors examining tiles or slates for damage, checking flashing details around chimneys and valleys, and assessing the condition of any felt or sarking visible from inside the roof space. Many properties in Bullington feature traditional slate roofing, and our surveyors are experienced in identifying age-related deterioration or repair needs specific to this material. We also inspect gutters, downpipes, and drainage systems, as blocked or damaged drainage can lead to significant damp problems, particularly in properties surrounded by mature trees or situated in areas with heavy foliage.

Inside the property, we assess the condition of windows and doors, examine fixtures and fittings, and evaluate the plumbing and electrical installations where visible. Our surveyors note any non-compliant improvements or DIY work that may not meet current building regulations, particularly relevant in older properties where modifications may have been carried out over decades without proper certification. We check for adequate ventilation in bathrooms and kitchens, inspect the condition of any internal joinery, and assess the overall internal environment for signs of condensation or damp.

Our external inspection extends to the boundaries, outbuildings, and grounds surrounding the property. In rural Bullington, many properties include substantial gardens, paddocks, or outbuildings that form part of the overall estate. We assess the condition of any detached garages, workshops, or agricultural buildings, as well as the condition of fences, gates, and retaining walls that may require ongoing maintenance.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof covering and structure
• Damp and timber decay
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and electrical
• Drainage systems