RICS Level 2 Survey in Great Strickland

Our RICS Level 2 Home Survey provides a comprehensive inspection of the property's visible and accessible elements. We examine the walls, roof, floors, windows, doors, and installations including plumbing, electrical systems, and heating. The survey includes a detailed assessment of the property's construction and any obvious defects or areas requiring attention. For properties in Great Strickland, our surveyors pay particular attention to the stone construction and slate roofing common in older village properties, checking for signs of weathering, damp penetration, and structural movement that can affect these traditional buildings.

The report uses a clear traffic light system to highlight issues: red for serious defects requiring urgent attention, amber for matters needing inspection or repair, and green for satisfactory condition. Each section of the property receives a rating, giving you an instant overview of its overall condition. We also provide specific advice on what repairs or investigations may be needed before completion and estimate the costs for addressing significant issues. This means you can negotiate with confidence, either seeking repairs from the seller or budgeting appropriately for work needed after you move in. Our reports are designed to be practical and actionable, helping you understand exactly what you are taking on.

Great Strickland's housing stock includes many properties built before 1919, with the village church of St Barnabas dating from 1872. These older properties often have traditional construction methods and materials that require specialist knowledge to assess properly. Our surveyors understand how to evaluate lime-based mortars, stone walls, and traditional roof coverings, identifying issues specific to period properties such as rising damp, timber decay, and the condition of original features. The report also highlights any maintenance issues that could become more serious problems if not addressed, helping you plan for the long-term upkeep of your property. We check the condition of load-bearing walls, examine chimney breasts for signs of structural stress, and assess whether modern additions have been carried out with appropriate building regulations approval.

For buyers considering newer properties in the village, we also assess any modern extensions or renovations that may have been carried out. With planning applications currently in progress for developments at Oak Farm and Town Head Farm, the village may see new housing coming to the market in coming years. Whether you are buying a brand-new property or a centuries-old farmhouse, our surveyors apply the same rigorous standards to ensure you have all the information you need.

• Walls and structural elements
• Roof covering and Chimneys
• Windows and Doors
• Floors and Staircases
• Damp and moisture detection
• Electrical installations
• Plumbing and drainage
• Heating systems
• External finishes

Properties in Great Strickland often feature traditional stone construction with green slate roofs, reflecting the local building materials and architectural heritage. While these buildings have character and durability, they do require ongoing maintenance and careful inspection. Our surveyors frequently identify issues such as deteriorating slate tiles, damaged flashings around chimneys, and wear to stone pointing that can lead to penetrating damp. The sandstone construction common in the village, while attractive, can be susceptible to weathering and erosion over time, particularly in exposed locations. We have seen numerous properties where the original lime mortar pointing has deteriorated, allowing water ingress that can cause internal damp problems.

Given the age of much of the housing stock in the area, electrical and plumbing systems often require updating to meet current standards. We check the condition of visible wiring, consumer units, and plumbing installations, flagging any areas of concern that should be inspected by a qualified electrician or plumber. Many older properties also have inadequate insulation, particularly in roof spaces, which can affect energy efficiency and lead to higher heating costs. Our report highlights these issues so you can plan necessary upgrades. We often find that consumer units are outdated or that there is a lack of adequate earthing, both of which pose safety concerns that should be addressed.

The local geology, which includes compacted clay in some areas, can affect foundations and lead to movement in properties over time. While Great Strickland is not in a high-risk flood zone, the proximity of the River Leith means we pay attention to any signs of damp or water ingress that might indicate drainage issues. Our surveyors are trained to spot the subtle signs of underlying problems that might not be apparent to untrained buyers, giving you confidence about your investment. We examine external ground levels, check for evidence of past flooding, and assess the condition of drainage systems and soakaways.

The village has seen recent planning activity, with applications for new developments at Oak Farm and Town Head Farm. If you are purchasing a newer property that has been built in recent years, we still carry out a thorough inspection, checking for common defects in newer construction such as inadequate insulation, poorly installed windows, and issues with building regulation compliance. Our goal is to ensure that regardless of the property age, you have a complete picture of its condition.

• Damp and condensation issues
• Roof tile damage or slipped slates
• Structural movement or cracking
• Outdated electrical installations
• Plumbing corrosion or leaks
• Timber defects and woodworm
• Inadequate insulation
• Drainage and gutter problems