RICS Level 2 Survey in Grafton and Radcot

Our RICS Level 2 surveys provide a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space, walls, floors, doors, and windows. We check the condition of the building's structure, looking for signs of damp, rot, subsidence, or structural movement that could indicate underlying problems. For properties in Grafton and Radcot, our inspectors pay particular attention to the age-related condition of traditional Cotswold stone and brick constructions, which form much of the local housing stock.

The survey report includes clear ratings for each element inspected: Condition Rating 1 (no repair needed), Condition Rating 2 (defects requiring attention but not serious), and Condition Rating 3 (serious defects requiring urgent repair). We provide practical advice on any issues found, including estimated costs for repairs where appropriate. Our reports also cover environmental considerations such as flood risk from the nearby River Thames, which is particularly relevant for properties in the Radcot area.

We inspect all major built-in elements including walls, floors, ceilings, doors, stairs, and fitted kitchens. Our surveyors also examine the condition of bathroom fittings, plumbing, and electrical installations where visible. For properties with outbuildings, garages, or boundaries, we include these in our assessment. The resulting report gives you a comprehensive understanding of the property's current condition, enabling you to negotiate on the purchase price if significant repairs are needed.

Our inspectors use specialist equipment including moisture meters to detect damp, torch and ladder equipment for roof inspections, and drone technology where safe access to roof slopes is not possible. We photograph all significant defects and include these images in your report so you can clearly see the issues we've identified. This visual evidence is particularly valuable when negotiating repairs or price adjustments with sellers.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp and moisture assessment
• Plumbing and drainage
• Electrical installations (visual)
• Windows and doors
• Outbuildings and boundaries

The Grafton and Radcot area features a mix of traditional period properties and more modern homes, with many houses dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. These older properties, while full of character with their Cotswold stone walls and traditional construction methods, often present specific challenges that only a professional survey can identify. Issues such as aging roof structures, outdated electrical systems, and the effects of decades of settlement are common in properties of this age.

West Oxfordshire properties can be particularly susceptible to damp issues, especially in properties with solid walls rather than cavity wall construction. Our surveyors are trained to identify signs of both rising and penetrating damp, which can cause significant damage if left untreated. We also check for signs of structural movement, which can be caused by ground conditions, tree roots, or historical mining activity in the region. The clay soils common in parts of Oxfordshire can cause shrink-swell movement that affects foundations over time.

Properties near the River Thames in the Radcot area may face flood risk considerations. While major flooding is infrequent, our surveyors will note any signs of previous water damage or flood mitigation measures that may be in place. This information is valuable for insurance purposes and for understanding potential future flood risks to the property. Properties in low-lying areas near the river should be particularly carefully assessed.

Many properties in the Grafton area fall within or near conservation areas, which means they may have specific restrictions on alterations and renovations. Our surveyors understand these considerations and can advise on how any identified defects might interact with conservation area requirements. This is particularly important if you're planning any future renovations or extensions to the property.

• Period property structural concerns
• Damp and condensation issues
• Roof condition and age
• Electrical safety compliance
• Flood risk assessment
• Listed building considerations