RICS Level 2 Survey Hart, Hampshire

Our RICS Level 2 Survey, also known as the HomeBuyer Report, provides a comprehensive visual inspection of the property's condition. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas including the roof, walls, floors, doors, and windows, assessing both the interior and exterior of the building. We specifically look for signs of damp, timber defects, structural movement, and any issues that might affect the property's value or require future maintenance. The survey follows RICS strict standards, ensuring you receive a consistent level of service regardless of where you are buying in the UK.

The survey includes a detailed assessment of the property's services, checking the condition of electrical, gas, and plumbing installations where visible. We evaluate the condition of the roof, including its structure, coverings, and any visible defects to tiles or flashing. Our inspectors also assess the condition of walls, looking for cracks, signs of movement, or other structural concerns that could indicate underlying problems. We examine windows and doors for operation and condition, and check any attached garages or outbuildings that form part of the property.

In Hart, where approximately 60% of properties were built before 1980, our surveyors pay particular attention to age-related defects common in the local housing stock. This includes checking for outdated electrical wiring in post-war properties, assessing the condition of original timber windows, and evaluating roof coverings that may be approaching the end of their lifespan. With 15% of properties dating from before 1919, we also carefully examine solid wall construction for signs of damp penetration and check whether original damp proof courses remain effective. The report provides clear, easy-to-understand ratings for each element inspected, helping you prioritise any necessary repairs or further investigations.

Our surveyors use their local knowledge of Hart's specific construction methods to identify issues that less experienced inspectors might miss. We understand that properties in this district often feature brick and render construction, with cavity walls in properties built after the 1930s and solid walls in older homes. This knowledge allows us to tailor our inspection approach to each property's specific construction type and age, ensuring we identify all relevant defects. We also check for issues specific to the local geology, including the moderate to high shrink-swell risk in areas with clay soils.

• Structural walls and foundations
• Roof structure and covering
• Damp assessment and moisture detection
• Timber condition and woodworm
• Windows, doors, and joinery
• Plumbing and electrical visible
• Boundary walls and outbuildings
• Energy performance rating review

The Hart district boasts a diverse range of property types, with detached homes comprising 45.1% of the housing stock, semi-detached properties at 30.2%, terraced houses at 15.8%, and flats at 8.9%. This mix means that whether you are purchasing a modern apartment in Fleet or a historic cottage in Crondall, our surveyors adapt their inspection approach to suit the specific property type and construction method. The variety of property styles in the area means that every survey is different, and our local knowledge helps us identify issues specific to each construction type.

Approximately 15% of properties in Hart were built before 1919, meaning they are over 100 years old and may feature solid wall construction rather than modern cavity walls. These older properties often require careful assessment for damp, particularly in ground floor rooms where the original damp proof course may have failed or been bridged over time. Our inspectors are experienced in identifying these issues and will provide specific recommendations for remediation where necessary. We also check for outdated electrical wiring, which is common in properties of this age, and assess whether the consumer unit meets current safety standards.

The district has seen significant new development in recent years, with major schemes including Hartland Village in Fleet (developed by St Edward, part of the Berkeley Group), Edenbrook Village, and Croft Gardens. While these newer properties generally require less extensive surveying, our Level 2 reports still provide valuable insight, highlighting any snagging issues or defects that may have emerged since construction. With new-build prices ranging from £450,000 to over £1,000,000 in the area, a professional survey represents a wise investment. Even in new properties, we have identified issues with window seals, roofing, and minor construction defects that were not immediately apparent to the untrained eye.

Hart's geology includes clay soils in the north and west areas, which present a moderate to high shrink-swell risk during periods of extreme weather. This is particularly relevant for properties with mature trees, where roots can draw moisture from the soil, causing it to shrink during dry periods and expand when wet. Our surveyors specifically look for signs of subsidence or movement in properties throughout the district, paying particular attention to areas with significant tree cover. We also note any conservation areas, including those in Odiham, Hartley Wintney, Crondall, and parts of Fleet, where properties may require additional consideration for their historical significance.

• Brick and render construction common across the district
• Cavity wall construction prevalent in post-1930s properties
• Clay tile and slate roofing typical of older homes
• Clay soils present moderate subsidence risk in some areas
• Conservation areas in Odiham, Hartley Wintney, and Crondall