RICS Level 2 Survey in Grantham

Our RICS Level 2 HomeBuyer Survey is designed specifically for properties in conventional construction, which covers the majority of homes in Grantham. The survey provides a detailed visual inspection of all accessible areas of the property, including the roof space where safe and accessible, the external walls, foundations, damp-proof courses, and critical internal elements like joinery and finishes. We examine properties of all types, from modern three-bedroom semis built in the 1990s on developments like the Sysonby Grange area to older terraced houses in the town centre that may have solid walls and traditional construction methods. Our surveyors use moisture meters, torchlights, and ladders to thoroughly assess every accessible element of the property.

Our inspectors examine the condition of the roof covering and structure, checking for slipped tiles, degraded felt, and any signs of water ingress that could lead to damp problems. In Grantham, where many roofs feature concrete or clay tiles common to the region, we often find issues with aging pointing, damaged ridge tiles, and moss growth that can trap moisture against the roof structure. We assess the walls for cracks, signs of movement, and the condition of any render or cladding. Given that many Grantham properties sit on clay soils, our surveyors pay particular attention to any indications of subsidence or heave, which can affect foundations and lead to structural movement over time. We've identified properties on streets with known clay soil issues where foundation movement has caused characteristic cracking patterns that our trained eyes can spot immediately.

The survey also includes a thorough assessment of damp levels using moisture meters and visual inspection for signs of rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation. Many properties in Grantham, particularly those built before 1919 with solid walls, suffer from rising damp due to failed or non-existent damp-proof courses. We check the condition of windows and doors, the functionality of ventilation systems, and the state of services such as plumbing and electrical installations. Our final report provides a clear traffic-light rating system highlighting the most urgent issues, along with practical recommendations for repairs and maintenance. We also note any instances where the property may have been extended or altered without proper planning permission, which is particularly important in Grantham's conservation area where strict controls apply.

• Roof structure and covering
• Wall construction and condition
• Damp and timber assessment
• Foundation and substructure
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible installations
• Drainage and gutter systems
• Flats and maisonette considerations

Properties in Grantham span a wide range of ages and construction types, which means our surveyors regularly encounter several recurring issues. Many Victorian and Edwardian properties in the town centre, built with solid walls and local limestone, suffer from rising damp due to failed or non-existent damp-proof courses. We've surveyed numerous properties on Watergate and the streets near the train station where this is a particular problem, especially where external ground levels have been raised over the years. The older timber-framed construction and traditional roof structures in these homes can also be affected by woodworm and rot, particularly where ventilation has been inadequate over the years. Our inspectors know exactly what to look for in these older properties, having seen the same issues repeatedly across the town's older housing stock.

Given that large parts of Grantham sit on clay soils, our inspectors are particularly vigilant for signs of subsidence or heave. Properties with shallow foundations or those that have suffered from drainage issues may show visible cracking or signs of movement. We've identified properties in areas where old drainage runs or tree planting too close to the building have caused foundation problems that require specialist investigation. The proximity to the River Witham also means that flood risk is a consideration for properties in lower-lying areas, and our surveyors note any evidence of previous flooding or water damage. Properties near the watercourse, particularly on streets like Wharf Road and the areas closer to the town centre, may have flood resilience considerations that buyers should be aware of.

Another common finding in older Grantham homes is outdated electrical wiring and plumbing. Properties built before the 1990s often have electrical systems that fall well below current safety standards, and we recommend that our clients obtain a separate electrical inspection certificate. We've found Victorian-era cable with rubber insulation, old fuse boards with wooden backs, and inadequate earthing in numerous properties throughout the town. Similarly, lead pipes and outdated plumbing fixtures are frequently encountered in properties over 50 years old, particularly in the terraced houses that make up much of Grantham's older housing stock. Our survey includes a visual inspection of accessible electrical and plumbing installations, with clear recommendations for further investigation where necessary.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof defects and tile slippage
• Timber decay and woodworm
• Subsidence from clay soil movement
• Outdated electrical wiring
• Poor drainage and guttering
• Chimney defects
• Window and door deterioration