RICS Level 2 Survey in Grayshott

Our RICS Level 2 Survey provides a detailed inspection of the property's visible and accessible areas, assessing the overall condition and highlighting any defects that could affect the value or safety of the property. The survey follows RICS guidelines and uses a traffic light rating system to clearly indicate the condition of each element - from the roof and walls to the plumbing and electrical systems. For properties in Grayshott, our surveyors pay particular attention to issues common in the area, such as damp in older properties, roof condition on period homes, and the condition of render on mid-20th century houses.

The survey includes a thorough examination of the roof structure, covering materials, flashings, and chimneys. In Grayshott, where many properties feature clay or concrete tile roofs dating back 50 years or more, we frequently identify wear and tear that requires attention. We also inspect the walls, foundations, floors, and ceilings, looking for signs of cracking, subsidence, or movement that could indicate structural concerns. Given the local geology around Grayshott, which sits primarily on the Folkestone Formation with its sand and sandstone composition, our surveyors are attuned to any signs of ground instability or shrink-swell activity.

We assess all visible timber elements for rot and woodworm infestation, check the condition of damp-proof courses and ventilation, and examine the property's plumbing and electrical installations. For properties with older systems - particularly those built before the 1980s - we flag any outdated wiring or plumbing that may not meet current regulations. The survey also includes an evaluation of any extensions, alterations, or outbuildings, and we provide specific advice on properties within the Grayshott Conservation Area, where special considerations apply to preservation and alterations.

Grayshott's diverse housing stock means our surveyors must be familiar with multiple construction methods. Older properties in the village typically feature solid wall construction with lime mortar, while properties built from the 1930s onwards would have cavity wall construction. Many homes feature rendered exteriors, particularly those from the mid-20th century, and we check the condition of this render carefully for cracks, delamination, or signs of damp penetration. Our familiarity with these local construction methods ensures we know exactly what to look for when inspecting your property.

• Roof structure and covering
• Walls, damp and structural movement
• Timbers - rot and woodworm
• Plumbing and water supply
• Electrical installations
• Windows and doors
• External finishes render and brickwork
• Foundations and ground floor

Our experience surveying properties throughout Grayshott and the surrounding East Hampshire area has revealed several recurring issues that buyers should be aware of. Damp problems are particularly common in the village's older properties, especially those with solid walls and inadequate ventilation. Rising damp can affect properties lacking a proper damp-proof course, while penetrating damp often occurs where roof coverings have deteriorated or lead flashings have failed. Condensation is another frequent issue, particularly in properties with modern double glazing but insufficient extractor ventilation.

Roof condition is a major focus of our surveys in Grayshott. Many properties in the area have roofs that are over 50 years old, with original clay tiles that may be deteriorating or have slipped. We regularly identify issues with lead flashings around chimneys and valleys, which can allow water penetration. Timber defects, including both wet and dry rot, affect many period properties, particularly where there has been prolonged damp penetration or inadequate ventilation to roof spaces. Our surveyors also frequently find outdated electrical installations in properties built before the 1980s, with original fuse boards and wiring that do not meet current safety standards.

While the general geology around Grayshott indicates a lower shrink-swell potential due to the sandy soil composition from the Folkestone Formation, we occasionally identify signs of subsidence or heave in properties with shallow foundations, particularly those near large trees or on made-up ground. Surface water flooding can also be a concern during periods of heavy rainfall, especially in properties with poor drainage. Our surveyors assess all these factors and provide clear guidance on any remedial action required.

Properties built before 1919 often have additional issues related to their age, including old lead pipes, very limited insulation, and potential structural movement over many decades. Inter-war properties (1919-1945) may have original windows that are deteriorating, while post-war homes sometimes have concrete structural elements that can be prone to their own specific defects. Our surveyors understand these age-related issues and know exactly what to look for in each type of property found in Grayshott.

• Rising and penetrating damp
• Roof tile deterioration and slipped tiles
• Lead flashing failures
• Wet and dry rot in timbers
• Outdated electrical consumer units
• Original plumbing and pipework
• Subsidence or settlement cracking
• Surface water flood risk