RICS Level 2 Survey in Collingbourne Ducis

Our RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's accessible areas, identifying defects that could affect value or safety. In a village like Collingbourne Ducis, where many properties date back to the Victorian or Edwardian periods, our surveyors pay particular attention to common issues found in older construction, including the condition of roof coverings, chimney stacks, load-bearing walls, and original windows and doors that may have historic character but require careful assessment.

The survey includes a thorough evaluation of the property's structural integrity, checking for signs of movement, subsidence, or damp penetration that can be particularly problematic in properties built on clay soils. We inspect all visible and accessible elements, from the foundations to the roof space, documenting any defects, missing maintenance, or areas requiring specialist attention. Our report uses a clear traffic light rating system, making it easy to understand which issues require urgent attention and which can be monitored over time.

For properties in Collingbourne Ducis, we specifically look for issues related to traditional building methods used in Wiltshire, including flint and chalk construction, thatched roofs on period cottages, and older brickwork that may have weathered over decades. We also assess the condition of older plumbing and electrical installations, which are often found in properties that have not been modernised in recent years. Our surveyors understand that many homes in this area have been extended or altered over time, and we carefully check for any structural implications of these modifications.

The survey report we provide includes practical advice on maintenance and repair priorities, helping you budget for any work that may be needed after completion. We highlight any legal considerations that may affect the property, including any breaches of building regulations or planning permissions that our inspectors identify during the inspection.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and coverings
• Chimneys and flues
• Damp and timber condition
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical installations
• External surfaces and drainage
• Garage and outbuildings

Our experience surveying properties throughout the Collingbourne Ducis area has revealed several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp is one of the most common problems we identify, particularly in period properties with solid walls that lack modern damp-proof courses. Rising damp can affect ground floor walls, while penetrating damp often manifests in roof spaces or walls exposed to prevailing winds. Condensation is frequently seen in properties with inadequate ventilation, especially in kitchens and bathrooms where moisture generation is highest.

Timber defects represent another significant category of issues we encounter. Woodworm activity is relatively common in older properties where wooden elements have been in place for many decades. Wet and dry rot can develop in areas of persistent dampness, affecting floor joists, window frames, and door frames. Our surveyors carefully probe accessible timber to assess its condition and identify any active infestation that requires treatment. We also check the condition of any exposed timber frame elements in older properties, as these can be critical to structural integrity.

Roof defects are particularly prevalent given the age of much of the housing stock in Collingbourne Ducis. We frequently find slipped or broken tiles, deteriorated pointing to ridge tiles, and flashing issues around chimneys and roof windows. For properties with thatched roofs, our surveyors assess the condition of the thatch, looking for signs of wear, vegetation growth, or deterioration that could lead to water penetration. These assessments are crucial for estimating likely repair costs, as thatch replacement is a significant expense that buyers should factor into their budget.

Electrical and plumbing installations in older properties often require careful assessment. We frequently identify outdated fuse boards, insufficient earthing, and older plumbing materials such as lead or galvanised steel pipes that may need upgrading. Our surveyors note the approximate age and condition of these installations, recommending that a qualified electrician or plumber provides further investigation where necessary.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Woodworm and timber rot
• Roof tile defects and leaks
• Chimney deterioration
• Outdated electrical systems
• Historic plumbing issues
• Subsidence or foundation movement
• Window and door deterioration

Collingbourne Ducis sits in a picturesque part of Wiltshire, close to the River Bourne and surrounded by rolling countryside. The village maintains a traditional character, with properties along streets like High Street and Church Street featuring period architecture that reflects its heritage. When surveying properties in this area, our inspectors take into account the local environment and how it might affect the property over time.

The underlying geology in this part of Wiltshire presents specific considerations for property owners. Chalk bedrock is prevalent across much of the county, with clay deposits sometimes present in valley areas and where superficial deposits overlie the chalk. Clay soils are associated with shrink-swell risk, meaning foundations can be affected by seasonal moisture changes. This is particularly relevant for properties with mature trees nearby, where root systems can draw moisture from the soil and cause ground movement during dry periods. Our surveyors note the proximity of trees to buildings and assess whether foundation depths were adequate for the soil conditions.

Flood risk is another consideration for properties in Collingbourne Ducis, particularly those near the River Bourne. While major flooding events are relatively uncommon, surface water flooding can occur during periods of heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying areas. Our surveyors note the proximity of properties to watercourses and assess drainage arrangements during every inspection. We also check for evidence of previous flooding in the property history, looking for watermarks, staining, or other indicators that may suggest past issues.

The area has seen relatively stable property values compared to some other parts of Wiltshire, with prices showing modest changes over recent years. This stability makes Collingbourne Ducis an attractive option for buyers seeking a rural lifestyle within reasonable reach of larger towns like Marlborough, Andover, and Salisbury. Many buyers are drawn to the area for its community feel and access to excellent schools in the surrounding villages.

• Proximity to River Bourne
• Local drainage patterns
• Clay soil shrink-swell risk
• Mature trees near foundations
• Surface water flood risk
• Historical mining activity (none recorded)