RICS Level 2 Survey in Burrough Green

The RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, provides a comprehensive visual inspection of the property's accessible areas. We examine the roof structure, walls, windows, doors, floors, and ceilings, as well as the condition of damp-proofing, insulation, and drainage systems. The survey identifies defects that affect the value of the property and provides clear red, amber, or green ratings to indicate the severity of any issues found.

In Burrough Green, where many properties pre-date modern building regulations, we pay particular attention to the structural elements common in older homes. This includes checking for signs of damp in traditional brickwork, assessing the condition of thatched roofs on properties like White Hart Farmhouse, and evaluating timber-framed structures for evidence of woodworm or rot. We also examine any extensions or alterations that may have been carried out over the years, ensuring they meet relevant standards.

Our Level 2 service includes a market valuation and insurance rebuild cost, which proves invaluable when arranging your mortgage and buildings insurance. For properties in Burrough Green's Conservation Area, we provide specific guidance on any issues that may affect the listing status or future renovation options. The report format is designed to be clear and practical, allowing you to understand exactly what you are purchasing and what remediation costs you might face.

The survey also includes an assessment of the property's energy efficiency, highlighting areas where improvements could reduce your ongoing running costs. Given the age of much of Burrough Green's housing stock, this is particularly valuable, as many older homes have insulation standards well below current expectations. Understanding the potential energy costs helps you budget accurately for your new home.

• Roof and loft structure
• Walls, chimneys, and damp proofing
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Floors and ceilings
• Bathrooms and kitchens
• Drainage and plumbing
• Electrics and gas services
• Outbuildings and boundaries

Properties in Burrough Green showcase a fascinating range of construction methods that reflect the area's long history. Traditional buildings frequently use local red brick, as seen in The Hall which dates back to around 1575, and timber frame construction with close-studded panels and serpentine tension braces. The parish church of St Augustine demonstrates the use of field stones and rubble, while properties in the wider area sometimes incorporate "clunch" - a local chalk-based stone used for internal work that can be susceptible to weathering.

Many historic homes in the village feature thatched roofing, which requires specialist knowledge to assess properly. White Hart Farmhouse, a Grade II listed late 16th-century property, exemplifies this construction style. Thatched roofs demand specific maintenance expertise and insurance considerations that a standard survey may not fully address without appropriate experience. Our surveyors understand these traditional building methods and can identify issues specific to historic properties.

The newer developments in the area, such as the Oak Tree Rise eco-homes by Pure Eco Homes, represent modern methods of construction including offsite timber framing through Hemspan manufactured superstructures. These climate-positive, net-zero properties require a different assessment approach focusing on modern building systems, renewable technologies, and the integration of features like MVHR units and solar PV panels. We adapt our inspection methodology to suit each property type.

Understanding the interplay between traditional and modern construction is essential when assessing properties in Burrough Green. Older buildings may have been subject to inappropriate repairs using modern materials that can cause long-term damage - for example, applying cement renders to traditional brickwork can trap moisture and cause structural issues. We identify these potential problems and advise on appropriate remediation.

Properties in Burrough Green face several area-specific challenges that our Level 2 surveys address comprehensively. The local geology includes clay and chalk subsoil, which can cause shrink-swell movement leading to subsidence or heave, particularly during dry periods or where large trees are present near foundations. We examine walls and foundations for signs of movement, including cracking patterns that may indicate structural issues requiring further investigation.

The village has experienced surface water flooding, particularly on Bradley Road, where pluvial runoff has been reported in the past. We include an assessment of the property's flood risk and drainage characteristics, helping you understand potential water management issues. We also check for signs of previous flooding or water damage that may affect the long-term durability of the property and inform your insurance arrangements.

Given the age of much of the housing stock, we pay particular attention to outdated electrical systems and plumbing that may not meet current regulations. Many Victorian and Edwardian properties in the area still have original wiring that would require upgrading for modern use. Similarly, insulation standards in older homes often fall below current expectations, affecting both comfort and energy efficiency costs. Our report highlights these issues and provides guidance on priority improvements.

For properties with thatched roofs, we assess the condition of the thatch and identify any specialist maintenance requirements. Thatched properties require specific insurance considerations and ongoing upkeep that our report will detail. We also examine the condition of traditional timber frames, checking for evidence of beetle activity or fungal decay that could compromise structural integrity. Properties like those along the village High Street frequently exhibit these characteristics.

Burrough Green's conservation status means we also consider the impact of any defects on the property's listing or conservation area requirements. Certain repair methods may not be appropriate for listed properties, and our report provides guidance on sympathetic maintenance approaches. This helps you understand not just what is wrong, but how it can be properly remedied without compromising the property's historic character.