RICS Level 2 Survey East Chevington

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a comprehensive visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property. Our surveyor examines the main elements of the building including the roof structure, walls, windows, doors, plumbing, electrical systems, and foundations. In East Chevington, where many properties date from the mid-20th century or earlier, our inspectors pay particular attention to the condition of older construction materials and any signs of wear that might not be immediately obvious to buyers. We understand that original features like these often form part of the property's charm, but they can also hide issues that need addressing.

The survey includes a thorough assessment of both the interior and exterior of the property, looking for defects that could affect value or require costly repairs. Our inspectors check for signs of damp, structural movement, roof condition, and the general state of repair. For properties in East Chevington, we specifically examine the external walls for cracking, inspect the condition of any chimneys, and assess the condition of drainage systems that may be affected by the local soil conditions. We also look closely at any extensions or alterations that may have been carried out over the years, checking that they were properly constructed and don't introduce structural risks.

Following the inspection, you receive a detailed RICS survey report that uses a straightforward traffic light system to highlight areas of concern. Red ratings indicate serious issues requiring urgent attention, amber ratings flag matters that should be investigated further, and green ratings confirm satisfactory condition. This clear format helps you prioritise repairs and negotiate with sellers if significant issues are identified. The report also includes a market valuation and an insurance reinstatement figure, giving you additional information to support your purchase decision. Our team is always available to talk through the findings with you after you receive your report, explaining any technical terms and helping you understand what the results mean for your specific situation.

We inspect properties of all types in the East Chevington area, from traditional two-up-two-down terraced houses along the main village street to larger semi-detached family homes in quieter cul-de-sacs. Each property type brings its own typical issues, and our surveyors know exactly what to look for. We check the condition of any garages or outbuildings included in the sale, assess the boundaries and any retaining walls, and examine the overall site drainage. Nothing is overlooked because we know that small issues can sometimes be indicators of larger problems lurking beneath the surface.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, floors, and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Plumbing and water systems
• Electrical installations
• Damp and timber condition
• External elements
• Garages and outbuildings

Properties across East Chevington and the surrounding Northumberland villages often share common characteristics that our surveyors know to look for. Many homes in this area were constructed between the 1930s and 1970s, meaning they may feature original fixtures and fittings that, while solid, could now be considered outdated. Our inspectors frequently identify aging electrical wiring that doesn't meet current regulations, original plumbing systems with galvanized steel pipes that may be prone to corrosion, and single-glazed windows that would benefit significantly from upgrading to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

The local geology in parts of Northumberland can affect property foundations, and our surveyors are trained to look for signs of movement or subsidence that might indicate underlying ground conditions. We check for cracking in walls, uneven floors, and doors that don't close properly, all of which could signal foundation issues. For properties with solid walls, common in this area, we assess the likelihood of penetrating damp and recommend appropriate remediation if needed. The clay-based soils that are prevalent in parts of Northumberland can also cause foundation movement during periods of drought or heavy rainfall, so we pay particular attention to any signs of this.

Roof conditions are another key focus during our surveys. Many properties in East Chevington have pitched roofs with traditional tile or slate coverings that, while durable, may have suffered from storm damage or general wear over the years. Our surveyors inspect roof spaces where accessible, checking for missing or damaged tiles, signs of past or current leaks, and the condition of supporting timbers. Flat roof sections, particularly on extensions and garage conversions, are also examined for deterioration that could lead to water ingress. Chimney stacks are a particular concern in this area, as many properties have older chimneys that may have degraded mortar joints or damaged flashings.

We also regularly identify issues with boundary walls and fences, drainage systems, and the condition of external render or pebble-dash finishes that were common on properties built during the mid-20th century. These may have deteriorated over the decades and could require repointing or replacement. Our thorough approach means nothing is missed, giving you complete confidence in understanding the true condition of your potential new home in East Chevington.

• Roof tile damage or missing slates
• Rising or penetrating damp
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Cracking to external walls
• Window seal failure
• Drainage issues
• Chimney deterioration
• Timber rot or beetle activity