RICS Level 2 Survey Hazlemere

Our chartered surveyors bring extensive experience inspecting properties throughout Hazlemere and the surrounding Buckinghamshire area. We understand the specific construction methods used in local homes, from the traditional brick-built houses with pitched tiled roofs that dominate the area to newer developments on Amersham Road such as The Hazlemere by Shanly Homes, The Ridings by Taylor Wimpey, and Hazlemere Place by Cala Homes. This local knowledge enables us to identify issues that are common to properties in this area and provide you with accurate, relevant advice that you won't find in a generic survey report.

The RICS Level 2 Survey is particularly valuable in Hazlemere given that approximately 70.8% of properties were built before 1980. These older properties often require more detailed inspection, as they may have outdated electrical systems, original plumbing, or roof coverings that are approaching the end of their lifespan. Our inspectors take the time to examine every accessible area of the property, providing you with a clear picture of its current condition. We have seen numerous properties in the area with original consumer units and wiring from the 1960s and 1970s that simply do not meet current safety standards.

We price our Level 2 Surveys competitively, with fees typically ranging from £400 to £800 depending on the size, type, and value of the property. For larger detached properties in prestigious locations within Hazlemere, prices will be at the higher end of this range, reflecting the additional time and complexity involved in inspecting homes with more square footage and multiple storeys. The average detached property in Hazlemere sells for £828,946, making the survey cost a small fraction of the investment while providing essential protection against unforeseen repair costs.

• Thorough visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Clear traffic light ratings for condition
• Specific repair recommendations and cost estimates
• Advice on legal issues and urgent defects

Our RICS Level 2 Survey includes a comprehensive visual inspection of all major elements of the property. We examine the walls, roof, floors, doors, and windows, as well as the plumbing, electrical, and heating systems where accessible. Our surveyors check for signs of damp, rot, structural movement, and other defects that might not be apparent to the untrained eye. In Hazlemere, where properties often feature traditional brick construction with clay or concrete tile roofs, we pay particular attention to the condition of roof coverings, flashing, and rainwater goods, as these are common areas where defects are found in properties of this age.

Given the local geology in Hazlemere, which is predominantly chalk from the Seaford Chalk Formation and Lewes Nodular Chalk Formation, our surveyors are aware that while the underlying bedrock is generally stable, areas with overlying clay-rich superficial deposits can present a moderate to high shrink-swell risk. This is particularly relevant for properties with shallow foundations or those with mature trees nearby, such as those along Amersham Road or near the older parts of the village. We specifically look for signs of subsidence or foundation movement that might indicate issues with the underlying ground conditions, checking for cracking patterns that could suggest clay-related movement.

The survey also addresses flood risk, which is an important consideration in Hazlemere. While the area generally has a low risk of flooding from rivers and the sea, there are areas with medium to high risk of surface water flooding, particularly around roads and built-up areas where drainage can be overwhelmed during heavy rainfall. Our report will flag any relevant flood risk concerns specific to the property location. We have noted that certain low-lying areas near the village centre and properties bordering the A404 can experience surface water pooling during significant rainfall events.

For buyers considering new build properties at developments like The Hazlemere, The Ridings, or Hazlemere Place, our survey still adds value. Even recently constructed homes can have defects related to build quality, snagging issues, or problems with fixtures and fittings that may not be immediately obvious. Many buyers are surprised to find issues with window seals, waterproofing in wet areas, or minor structural items that need addressing before the new build warranty period expires.

Our experience surveying properties throughout Hazlemere means we know what to look for. The predominant housing stock, with 45.1% of properties built between 1945 and 1980, often exhibits specific defects related to their construction period. These include original plumbing and electrical systems that may be outdated and not meeting current safety standards. Many of these properties still have their original consumer units, wiring, and pipework, which may require updating to comply with current regulations. We frequently identify electrical installations that predate modern safety standards and recommend a qualified electrician conduct a more detailed inspection.

Roof condition is another common area of concern. Properties from the mid-20th century often have roof coverings that are showing signs of wear, including slipped tiles, degraded felt, and deteriorated lead flashing. Our surveyors inspect all accessible roof spaces and external roof elements to identify any issues that could lead to water ingress or require urgent repairs. Given the recent weather patterns in Buckinghamshire, we have seen an increase in roof-related issues following periods of heavy rainfall and wind. In some cases, we have found that original roof battens and rafters show signs of deterioration that may require structural attention.

Damp problems are frequently identified in Hazlemere properties, particularly rising damp or penetrating damp in older buildings where original damp-proof courses may have failed or been compromised. Poor ventilation, defective rainwater goods, and lack of maintenance can all contribute to damp issues. Our surveyors use their expertise to identify the cause and severity of any dampness and recommend appropriate remedial measures. Properties in Hazlemere with solid walls, rather than cavity walls, are particularly susceptible to damp penetration and may require specialist treatment.

Given the local geology with areas of clay-rich superficial deposits over the chalk bedrock, our surveyors pay particular attention to signs of subsidence or foundation movement. Properties with mature trees, particularly those with species like oak or poplar that have extensive root systems, can be at risk of clay shrinkage causing movement. We have surveyed several properties in Hazlemere where foundation issues were identified, often related to trees too close to the building or inadequate foundations for the underlying soil conditions.