RICS Level 2 Survey in Edvin Loach and Saltmarshe

The civil parish of Edvin Loach and Saltmarshe sits in north-east Herefordshire, approximately 15 miles north-east of Hereford and just 2.5 miles south-west of Bromyard. This rural parish encompasses a mix of historic properties, traditional farmhouses, and newer park home developments. The area's housing stock reflects its heritage, with many properties built using local sandstone rubble and traditional masonry techniques that were prevalent in the 11th century when the original St Mary's Church was constructed. Our surveyors regularly inspect properties throughout this HR7 postcode area, and they understand the specific challenges that come with Herefordshire's geology and building traditions.

The underlying Old Red Sandstone geology means clay-rich soils are common throughout the Edvin Loach and Saltmarshe area, which can lead to shrink-swell movement affecting foundations over time. This is particularly relevant for older properties in the parish that may have shallower foundations than modern standards require. Our inspectors are trained to identify the signs of ground movement, including cracking patterns in walls and uneven floor levels that may indicate subsidence or heave issues. Given that properties in this area can experience seasonal changes in soil moisture levels, we pay particular attention to the condition of foundations and any evidence of past or current movement.

Properties in Edvin Loach and Saltmarshe range from historic cottages near the ruins of the old St Mary's Church, which stands within the earthworks of a Norman motte-and-bailey castle, to contemporary park homes at Saltmarshe Castle Residential Park. Each property type brings its own survey considerations. Period properties may have solid walls, older roofing materials, and potential issues with damp penetration, while even newer constructions benefit from a professional inspection to identify any defects that might not be visible during a viewing. The presence of significant historical elements, including listed buildings near the old St Mary's Church ruins designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott in 1860, means that our surveyors must also understand heritage property considerations and any specific maintenance requirements that may apply.

• Traditional sandstone construction
• Heritage property considerations
• Drainage and ground conditions
• Park home specific inspections

Our RICS Level 2 survey provides a thorough inspection of all accessible parts of the property. Our inspectors examine the roof structure, walls, floors, windows, doors, and plumbing and electrical systems where visible. They assess the overall condition and flag any defects that affect the property's value or safety, categorising issues by their severity so you understand exactly what requires immediate attention versus what might need future monitoring. Each survey includes a market value opinion and reinstatement cost assessment, which are essential for insurance purposes and mortgage requirements.

In a rural parish like Edvin Loach and Saltmarshe, our surveyors pay particular attention to several key areas that are specific to the local housing stock. The condition of older roofing materials, which are common on period properties throughout Herefordshire, is carefully assessed for signs of wear, missing tiles, or structural movement. We check for damp penetration, which is frequently found in properties with solid walls or where original damp-proof courses have failed over time. Given the age of many properties in this area, our inspectors often encounter issues with outdated electrical wiring and plumbing systems that may not meet current regulations.

Drainage is another critical consideration in this area. Properties in Herefordshire can be affected by ground conditions, and our inspectors examine gullies, drainage channels, and the condition of septic tanks or sewage systems, which are common in rural properties not connected to mains sewage. We also assess the condition of outbuildings, which are prevalent on rural properties in this parish, including agricultural structures, garages, and traditional farm buildings that may form part of the property. The condition of boundary walls and fences is also noted, as these can be particularly important in rural areas where property boundaries may be less clearly defined.

• Structural condition assessment
• Roof and ceiling inspection
• Damp and timber decay detection
• Electrical and plumbing overview
• Energy efficiency advisory
• Market value opinion

Our experience surveying properties throughout Edvin Loach and Saltmarshe and the wider HR7 area has identified several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems are particularly common in older properties across Herefordshire, where solid wall construction and aging damp-proof courses can allow moisture to penetrate. Our inspectors use specialist equipment to detect damp levels and identify the source of any moisture ingress. In period cottages near the old St Mary's Church ruins, we frequently find rising damp affecting ground floor walls due to the age of these properties and the likelihood of failed or non-existent damp-proof courses.

Roofing issues frequently appear in our surveys, with properties in this parish often featuring older roofing materials that have reached the end of their lifespan. Missing or cracked tiles, deteriorating flashings, and damaged fascias are regularly identified. The traditional roofing materials used on older Herefordshire properties, including clay tiles and slate, can deteriorate significantly over time, particularly when exposed to the local weather conditions. Our surveyors carefully assess the roof structure from both inside the property and externally where safe access is possible.

Ground conditions can also present challenges in Edvin Loach and Saltmarshe. Properties built on clay soils, which are prevalent across Herefordshire due to the underlying geology, can experience subsidence or heave as the soil expands and contracts with moisture levels. Our surveyors will note any signs of movement such as cracks in walls or uneven floors and recommend appropriate action. This is particularly important for older properties that may have shallow foundations not designed to accommodate modern building regulations. The recent economic trends in the area, with property prices 3% down on the previous year and 11% down on the 2022 peak, make it especially important to understand any structural issues that might affect your investment.

Given the rural nature of Edvin Loach and Saltmarshe, drainage and septic systems are a common focus area in our surveys. Many properties in this parish are not connected to mains sewage and rely on private septic tanks or treatment systems. Our inspectors examine the condition of these systems where visible and note any obvious defects or maintenance requirements. Additionally, the presence of outbuildings and agricultural structures is common on rural properties in this area, and we assess these separately to ensure you understand any maintenance obligations or potential risks.

• Rising damp and penetrating damp
• Roof tile damage and deterioration
• Foundation movement indicators
• Outbuilding condition
• Septic tank and drainage systems
• Window and door joinery decay