RICS Level 2 Survey in DN20 0 Broughton

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof, walls, windows, doors, plumbing, and electrical systems. The survey includes a systematic assessment of the property's condition, identifying any defects, potential issues, or areas requiring urgent attention. Our inspectors examine the exterior and interior of the building, looking for signs of dampness, structural movement, roof damage, and timber defects that are particularly common in older properties throughout the Broughton and Brigg area. We take photographs of all significant findings and provide clear explanations in plain English.

Given the local geology around DN20 0, which features clay-rich soils from the Ancholme Clay Group, our survey pays particular attention to signs of subsidence and ground movement. We check for cracking, uneven floors, and doors that stick or fail to close properly, which can indicate foundation issues. The clay soils in this area are prone to shrink-swell behaviour, accounting for approximately 70% of subsidence cases nationally, and our inspectors are trained to identify the early warning signs. We also examine trees and vegetation near the property, as root-induced clay shrinkage is a major contributor to subsidence, particularly during hot, dry summers.

For properties in flood risk zones near the River Ancholme, our inspectors assess the history and potential for flooding, reviewing any existing flood defences and the property's resilience to water damage. The area around Broughton and Brigg has documented flooding history from the River Ancholme, Old River Ancholme, and Bury Brook, with surface water flooding also a concern. We examine the condition of gutters and downpipes, as blocked or defective drainage can lead to penetrating damp and wall saturation, issues we frequently encounter in older properties with original brickwork throughout the Brigg conservation area.

We also assess the condition of drainage systems, which is essential in an area where older clay pipes (common before the 1970s) can be prone to damage and leakage that contributes to subsidence. Our inspectors will lift accessible drain covers where safe to do so and comment on the general condition of underground drainage. We look for signs of corrosion on older guttering, check that gutters are properly secured and free from blockages, and assess whether downpipes are correctly connected to the drainage system.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Identification of defects and urgent issues
• Assessment of roof, walls, and foundations
• Drainage and guttering condition check
• Flood risk evaluation for riverside properties
• Energy efficiency observations

The DN20 0 area presents a diverse range of property types that each bring specific considerations for buyers. Brigg's conservation area contains numerous 18th and 19th-century buildings constructed from solid brick walls, predating modern cavity wall construction and damp-proof courses. These properties often require closer inspection for rising damp, inadequate insulation, and outdated electrical systems that may not meet current safety standards. The pantiled roofs common to the area can show age-related deterioration, including broken tiles, deteriorated ridge mortar, and flashings that have failed over time. Many of these older properties were built before modern building regulations were introduced, so understanding their construction and condition is essential.

Broughton has experienced significant growth since the mid-1980s, with newer developments offering more modern construction standards. The Bertone Meadows development by Hoober Homes on Scawby Road demonstrates the variety of options available, from 2-bedroom bungalows to 4-bedroom houses priced from £189,995 to £339,995. However, even newer properties can have defects, and our Level 2 surveys are suitable for these newer properties as well as the older housing stock, providing comprehensive coverage regardless of the property type you are considering. We have inspected numerous properties in this development and understand the typical issues that can arise in new build homes.

The local geology presents specific challenges that our surveyors understand well. The clay-rich soils of the Ancholme Clay Group create potential for shrink-swell subsidence, particularly during dry summers when tree roots extract moisture from the ground. This is a significant issue across North Lincolnshire and accounts for a substantial proportion of subsidence claims in the region. Our inspectors carefully examine walls, floors, and door frames for signs of movement that might indicate foundation issues related to soil conditions or leaking drains. We also check for evidence of previous underpinning or foundation repair work that might indicate past structural issues.

Broughton contains 76 listed buildings within its conservation area, including the Grade I listed Church of St Mary, Grade II listed Broughton Bridge, and Broughton Grange Farmhouse. If you are considering purchasing a listed building, be aware that these properties often require specialist surveys (typically an RICS Level 3 Building Survey) due to their unique construction and the specific legal responsibilities associated with owning heritage assets. Our team can advise whether a Level 2 survey is sufficient or whether a more detailed assessment is recommended for your particular property.

• Conservation area restrictions for listed buildings
• Flood risk from River Ancholme
• Clay soil subsidence potential
• Older drainage systems (clay pipes)
• Roof condition on period properties
• Energy efficiency of older homes