RICS Level 2 Survey in Crichel

Our RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, windows, and permanent fixtures, identifying any defects, potential issues, or areas requiring future maintenance attention. For properties in Crichel, this includes assessing the condition of traditional thatched roofs, which are common throughout the hamlet and require specific expertise to evaluate properly. We inspect roof voids where accessible, looking for signs of timber decay, inadequate ventilation, or historical repairs to thatch that may have been carried out by previous owners.

The survey includes a detailed assessment of the property's condition rated by priority, from urgent repairs requiring immediate attention to recommendations for future maintenance. We check for signs of structural movement, damp penetration, woodworm or rot, and any issues with the electrical or plumbing installations that may be visible during a visual inspection. Our report includes clear photographs and descriptions so you can see exactly what we've found. We also note any alterations or extensions that may have been carried out without proper building regulations approval, which is particularly relevant for older properties where previous owners may have made changes over the decades.

In the Crichel area, our surveyors pay particular attention to the age and condition of older properties. Many homes in this parish date from the 19th century or earlier, constructed using traditional methods with local materials including flint, stone, and thatch. Understanding these construction types is essential for accurate assessment, and our team has extensive experience evaluating period properties across Dorset. We know how to identify the difference between historic settlement patterns that are normal for age and more serious structural issues that require attention.

The RICS Level 2 survey also includes a market valuation and an insurance reinstatement figure, giving you confidence in your purchase price and ensuring you have adequate building insurance coverage from day one. The valuation is based on our analysis of current market conditions in the Crichel area, taking into account the premium that properties in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty command.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Defect identification with priority ratings
• Market valuation and reinstatement figure
• Advice on repairs and maintenance

The Crichel parish encompasses two main settlements - Moor Crichel and Long Crichel - each with its own distinct character. In Moor Crichel, you'll find the historic centre around the Church of St Mary, a Grade II* listed building that was rebuilt in the 19th century using local stone. The hamlet of Manswood within Moor Crichel is particularly known for its terrace of twelve thatched cottages, a rare and charming example of traditional Dorset architecture that represents some of the most desirable properties in the area. These cottages, constructed with thick walls and traditional thatch, require specialist knowledge to properly assess.

Long Crichel features mostly 19th-century estate cottages, often grouped in small terraces along the village lanes. These properties typically feature traditional construction methods including solid walls, original timber-framed windows, and in many cases, thatched or slate roofing. Our surveyors understand how to assess these period features, identifying both their charm and any associated maintenance considerations. Many of these cottages were built as part of the Crichel Estate and share similar construction characteristics that we have become very familiar with over years of surveying in this area.

The wider Crichel area also includes larger country houses within the estate, such as properties associated with the Crichel House estate. Crichel House itself is a Grade I listed Classical Revival country house that was rebuilt in the 18th century and later remodelled. These larger properties may have different construction types, including more substantial brick or stone construction, and our surveyors are experienced in evaluating properties across all scales and ages. Properties of this size often come with outbuildings, stables, or converted barns that also require inspection.

The underlying geology of Crichel presents specific considerations for property owners. The area sits on chalk downland beneath Crichel Down, with marshy areas in Moor Crichel due to the river flowing through the village. This can indicate localized clay deposits, which may cause shrink-swell movement in foundations, particularly in properties with shallower footings typical of older construction. Our surveyors are trained to look for signs of foundation movement that may be related to clay shrinkage, especially during dry spells when the ground moisture content changes significantly.

Based on our experience surveying properties throughout the Crichel area, we've identified several issues that commonly affect homes in this part of Dorset. Thatched roofs, while beautiful and traditional, require regular maintenance and are prone to leaks if the thatch has deteriorated or been damaged by wildlife. Our surveyors know exactly what to look for when assessing the condition of thatch, including checking for areas of thinning, moss growth that can hold moisture against the thatch, and any signs of previous repairs that may have been carried out using incompatible materials.

Solid walls found in older Crichel properties are another common area of concern. Unlike modern cavity walls, solid walls have no built-in insulation and can be prone to damp penetration, particularly if the original lime mortar pointing has deteriorated. We assess the condition of pointing and recommend where repointing with appropriate lime mortar may be necessary to allow the building to breathe properly. Incorrect use of cement-based mortars on historic properties can trap moisture and cause serious damage to the underlying fabric.

Given the local geology and the marshy areas in parts of Moor Crichel, drainage is an important consideration for properties in this area. Many older properties have drainage systems that were installed decades ago and may not meet current standards. We inspect accessible drainage routes and note any signs of poor drainage or runoff issues that could affect the property. The proximity to the River Allen in some areas also means we check for any evidence of surface water flooding or drainage problems that may be related to the local water table.

Windows in period properties are often original timber frames that, while characterful, may have deteriorated over time. We check all accessible windows for signs of rot, particularly at the bottom rails and cills where water tends to collect. Many original single-glazed windows in Crichel properties will need upgrading for energy efficiency, and we highlight this in our reports so you can budget accordingly for eventual replacement.

The Dorset property market has seen significant activity in recent years, with 10,300 sales in the county over the last twelve months. However, the market has experienced a 1.3% decline in transaction volumes compared to the previous year, with property values in the county declining by approximately 1% over the same period. In this context, obtaining a professional survey is particularly important, ensuring you have accurate information about the property before committing to a purchase that may be one of the larger financial decisions of your life.

Properties in rural areas like Crichel often present unique challenges that differ from urban properties. The age of housing stock means that issues such as outdated electrical systems, old heating systems, and traditional building defects are more common. Our surveyors know what to look for in period properties and can identify issues that a less experienced eye might miss. We understand the specific construction methods used in this area, from the estate cottages built in the 19th century to the earlier properties that may have medieval origins.

With the average property price in Dorset at £332,000 and higher values in sought-after villages like Crichel, the cost of a survey represents excellent value for money. A thorough inspection can identify issues that, if left unchecked, could result in repair bills running into thousands of pounds. Whether it's identifying a leaking thatched roof, damp issues in solid walls, or structural movement in an older property, our survey gives you the information you need to negotiate or proceed with confidence. In the current market, having a detailed survey report puts you in a stronger position when negotiating with sellers.