RICS Level 2 Survey East Boldre

Our RICS Level 2 surveys provide a detailed visual inspection of all accessible parts of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and permanent fixtures, assessing their current condition and identifying any defects that require attention. The survey includes an evaluation of the property's overall structure, highlighting issues such as damp penetration, timber decay, roofing defects, and signs of movement that could affect the building's integrity. Our inspectors will spend time examining each element systematically, looking beyond obvious issues to identify early warning signs of potential problems.

In East Boldre, where many properties date from the 18th and 19th centuries, our surveyors pay particular attention to traditional construction methods. Properties in this area often feature cob walls, thatched roofs on historic buildings, and original period details that require expert assessment. We check for common issues in period properties, including timber frame deterioration, heritage window condition, and the state of historic roofing materials. Our reports include clear condition ratings so you understand exactly what requires immediate attention versus future monitoring.

The Level 2 survey also covers services such as plumbing, electrical installations, and heating systems where visible. We cannot dismantle fitted units or access areas that are concealed, but our experienced inspectors use their expertise to identify signs of potential problems that warrant further investigation. Every report includes practical recommendations for maintenance and any specialist surveys that may be advisable based on our findings. Where we identify issues that require further specialist assessment, such as tree root damage to foundations or suspected roofing defects, we will clearly flag this in our report.

Our surveyors are trained to identify issues specific to New Forest properties, including those related to the local geology and flood risk. We check for signs of subsidence or heave related to the clay soils underlying much of the area, examine drainage arrangements around the property, and look for evidence of previous flooding or water ingress. For properties near the River Boldre or other watercourses in the parish, we pay particular attention to flood risk indicators and the condition of any flood resilience measures already in place.

• Structural assessment
• Roof and chimney condition
• Damp and timber inspection
• Windows and doors
• Services overview
• Energy efficiency matters

East Boldre and the surrounding New Forest area present unique challenges for property purchasers. The local geology consists of plateau gravel overlying sands and clays from the Oligocene period, with Eocene sands and clays beneath the surface. This clay-heavy substrate creates potential for shrink-swell movement, particularly during periods of drought or excessive rainfall. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of ground movement, including cracking patterns and door/window operation issues that may indicate subsidence or heave related to soil conditions. We have seen properties in the area affected by these ground movement issues, particularly during the hot summer of 2022 when extended dry periods caused significant clay shrinkage.

The New Forest's characteristic springs and watercourses also affect properties throughout the area. The underlying impermeable geology means that surface water can accumulate quickly, with the Environment Agency issuing flood warnings for parts of the New Forest. Properties near water features or in lower-lying areas may face periodic flooding risk. Our inspectors assess drainage around the property, check for signs of previous water ingress, and advise on any flood resilience measures that might be appropriate. We've surveyed properties near Hatchet Pond and the River Boldre where flooding has been an ongoing concern, and we know what to look for when assessing flood risk.

Many properties in East Boldre feature traditional materials including brick with tile hanging, concrete tiled roofs, and in some cases, original cob construction on older farm buildings and cottages. St. Paul's Church, built in 1839, showcases traditional brick with stone dressings and slate roofing - details often mirrored in local residential properties. We understand how these materials perform in the local climate and can identify typical defects associated with each construction type. The presence of 50+ listed buildings in the broader Boldre parish means heritage considerations frequently arise in the survey process, and we can advise on the implications of purchasing period property within the conservation area.

Properties in East Boldre often have large grounds and mature gardens, which can bring additional considerations for buyers. We inspect boundary walls, fences, and gates, noting their condition and any maintenance requirements. Trees within falling distance of the property are assessed for potential root damage to foundations, and we recommend appropriate surveys where necessary. The New Forest environment means that properties may be affected by tree growth, and our inspection will identify any trees that could pose a risk to the building structure over time.

• Clay soil subsidence risk
• Traditional brick and cob construction
• Period roofing materials
• Local flood considerations
• Conservation area restrictions
• Listed building heritage