RICS Level 2 Survey in Aston-on-Trent (DE72 2)

A RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, offers a comprehensive assessment of a property's condition without the extensive detail of a full Building Survey. This makes it ideal for conventional properties in reasonable condition, particularly those built after 1950. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, from the roof space to the foundations, providing a clear red, amber, or green rating system that highlights issues requiring immediate attention versus those that may need future monitoring. The format gives you a clear snapshot of what you're buying without overwhelming you with technical detail.

In Aston-on-Trent, where approximately 60% of properties were built before 1980, a Level 2 Survey proves particularly valuable. The area's housing stock includes significant numbers of homes from the post-war period through to the 1970s, properties that may exhibit age-related issues such as deteriorating roof coverings, outdated electrical systems, or original damp-proof courses that have failed over time. Our surveyors know what to look for in these property types and can provide practical guidance on remediation costs based on our experience with similar properties in the area.

The Level 2 Survey format also works well for the newer properties in DE72 2, including those at The Willows development by Avant Homes and Aston Grange by David Wilson Homes. Even in recently constructed homes, our inspectors can identify snagging issues, workmanship concerns, or defects that may have emerged since the properties were built. This proves particularly valuable for buyers investing in new build properties, ensuring that any issues are documented before the warranty period expires.

For properties in the Aston-on-Trent Conservation Area, which includes several listed buildings such as Aston Hall, we sometimes recommend a more detailed RICS Level 3 Building Survey. This is because historic properties often have unique construction features, hidden defects, and specific planning considerations that warrant more thorough investigation. However, for the majority of properties in DE72 2, the Level 2 Survey provides exactly the right balance of detail and value.

• Clear condition ratings
• Market valuation
• Insurance rebuild cost
• Opening up and testing of accessible elements
• Advice on legal issues

The geography and geology of the DE72 2 area present specific challenges that our surveyors know to investigate thoroughly. The underlying Mercia Mudstone geology, a clay-rich deposit common across Derbyshire, creates potential for shrink-swell movement in the ground. This can lead to subsidence or heave, particularly in properties with mature trees nearby or where drainage systems have leaked over time. Our inspectors carefully examine walls, floors, and foundations for signs of movement or cracking that might indicate these issues. Properties with large trees close to the building, particularly in the older parts of the village near Church Lane and Derby Road, require especially careful assessment.

Properties in Aston-on-Trent also face flood risk considerations due to proximity to the River Trent and its tributaries. While not all properties in DE72 2 are directly affected, our surveyors note any indications of past flooding, water staining, or drainage issues that might suggest vulnerability to surface water or river flooding. Areas near the river, particularly properties on lower-lying ground approaching the floodplain, may face higher risk. This information allows you to make an informed decision about the property's long-term suitability and any insurance implications.

The village's Conservation Area status means some properties may have unique construction features or be subject to specific planning restrictions. Our surveyors are familiar with the requirements for properties in designated areas and will flag any conservation considerations that might affect your plans for the property. For listed buildings or period properties in the conservation area, we may recommend a more detailed RICS Level 3 Building Survey to fully understand the complexities of the construction. Properties in the conservation area often have restricted permitted development rights, which our report will flag if relevant to your intended use.

Understanding the construction methods used in local properties helps explain why certain issues arise. In Aston-on-Trent, the housing stock reflects the village's growth over several decades. The pre-1919 properties, representing about 15% of homes, were typically built with solid brick walls, timber floors, and slate or clay tile roofs. These period properties often have significant character but require careful assessment for damp, timber decay, and the condition of historic features. Many of these homes still have their original joinery, which can be valuable but may also require restoration work.

The post-war to 1970s properties make up around 35% of the housing stock. These homes were constructed using cavity brick walls, though the original building regulations meant that cavity insulation was not mandatory until much later. Many of these properties will be approaching or have passed the 50-year mark where issues like roof deterioration, failed damp-proof courses, and original electrical installations becoming inadequate become more common. Properties in this age range, particularly those on estates built during the 1960s expansion of the village, represent good value but benefit significantly from a thorough survey.

Modern properties built since 1980, accounting for 40% of the housing stock, generally benefit from modern construction techniques including cavity wall insulation, improved damp-proofing, and updated building regulations. However, even these properties can have issues, particularly with workmanship during the construction phase or with specific building materials that may have proved problematic over time. Our surveyors approach each property individually, assessing its actual condition rather than making assumptions based solely on age. The new developments at The Willows and Aston Grange demonstrate modern construction but still benefit from our independent inspection.

With 49.3% of properties in DE72 2 being detached homes, the area has a higher proportion of larger properties than many comparable villages. This means many buyers are purchasing substantial family homes where the survey investment is particularly worthwhile. Detached properties have more roof space, more external walls, and more potential for hidden defects than terraced or flat properties, making thorough survey coverage essential.